Maintenance of membrane integrity and activation of antioxidant system of wheat at vegetative growth stage by static and electromagnetic fields

Several studies have shown that magnetic fields can exert an influence on a large variety of cellular functions; however, the exact mechanism of this interaction in living cells is still unclear. One possible explanation for the adverse effects of magnetic fields on living organisms is oxidative stress resulting from an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species through iron as a mediator. Oxidative stress also brings about changes in enzyme activity, gene expression, and the release of calcium from intracellular storage sites. In the present study the effects of 30 mT static magnetic field and a 10 KHz electromagnetic field on the root and shoot length, activity of antioxidant system, membrane integrity, and the total of calcium and iron content of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) at vegetative stage were estimated. The results showed that magnetic field caused promotion of antioxidant system, maintenance of membrane integrity and changes in calcium and iron balance, compared to the control group. These effects vary depending on many factors e.g., the sort of magnetic field and the plant organs being exposed to the field.