Comprehensive analysis of genotoxic effects and antioxidative defence mechanisms in plant test system exposed to 1800 MHz electromagnetic radiations: a root chromosomal aberration and FTIR spectroscopy approach

Objective The proliferation of wireless communication devices has increased the exposure of living organisms to electromagnetic field radiations (EMF-rs), posing potential risks to various biological systems. The present study was planned to explore the genotoxic effects and oxidative stress responses of 1800 MHz electromagnetic radiations in Trigonella foenum-graecum L. plant test system. The study also pertained to assess the changes in functional groups using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Methods Twenty seeds of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. were placed in Petri plates lined with autoclaved Whatman No. 1 filter paper. The seeds were evenly distributed and maintained at temperature 25 ± 2 °C and relative humidity 55–60%. The seeds were placed in Petri plates along with the exposure apparatus (antenna) and then enclosed within a chamber consisting of two layers of aluminium sheets. The treatment was administered every day for seven days on various parameters. Results The investigation showed that increasing the duration of EMR exposure significantly decreased protein content and increased MDA content in seedlings. However, exposure to EMRs for 4 and 8 h per day led to increased activities of different antioxidant enzymes, including guaiacol peroxidase (POD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The study also calculated the specific absorption rate using the biological heat transfer equation, which revealed harmful effects of the radiations on the test system by interfering with biochemical processes, leading to genotoxic and oxidative stress. Conclusion The findings suggest that electromagnetic radiations induced oxidative stress in T. foenum-graecum L. and increased activity of antioxidant enzymes as a protective mechanism against cellular damage. The study highlights the potential risks associated with EMF radiations on plant systems and underscores the importance of further research in this field.