Growth and defense mechanism of Phaeocystis globosa exposed to extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Marine power cables are increasingly exposing marine ecosystems to artificial extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF). The harmful and periodic outbreaks of Phaeocystis globosa blooms in the Beibu Gulf, though driven by complex factors, raise questions about potential links to ELF-EMF. While existing studies suggest that ELF-EMF promote microalgal proliferation, and electromagnetic conditions in the Beibu Gulf have undergone changes, research exploring their connection remains scarce. To assess the impacts of ELF-EMF on the microalga P. globosa , we expose it to ELF-EMF at three electromagnetic strengths (0, 0.2, 1 millitesla (mT)) over a 24 h period. Analysis of growth indicators, physiology, biochemistry, and the metabolome is performed to identify how this alga responds to ELF-EMF. Exposure to 0.2 mT 24 h −1 and 1 mT 24 h −1 increased cultured P. globosa cell density, enhanced photosynthesis, and increased chlorophyll a content, but decreased protein and carbohydrate accumulation. Metabolome analysis revealed, 916 differently expressed metabolites, of which cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and linoleic acid are significantly down-regulated, while γ-aminobutyric acid is significantly up-regulated. Pathway analysis reveals cAMP signaling pathway and linoleic acid metabolism to be inhibited following ELF-EMF exposure. We demonstrate that P. globosa growth was promoted with exposure to ELF-EMF. Under the influence of electromagnetic fields, P. globosa exhibits enhanced growth, reproduction, and photosynthesis, along with stronger stress resistance. Therefore, under changing electromagnetic conditions in the Beibu Gulf, the threat of P. globosa algal blooms may increase. This study sheds light on potential drivers of harmful algal blooms (HABs), suggesting that ELF-EMF may play a role in bloom initiation. However, the exact mechanisms underlying this relationship warrant further investigation to establish causality and ecological relevance. • The effects of ELF-EMF on P. globosa are first reported. • Cell density and colony diameter of P. globosa were enhanced by ELF-EMF exposure. • Photosynthesis is enhanced, but proteins and polysaccharides production decrease. • γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) synthesis is promoted. • Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and linoleic acid synthesis is inhibited.
Authors: Yutong Xie, Jie Guo, Tong Su, Bingfu Tan, Liangliang Huang, Junxiang Lai
Institutions: Guilin University of Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Physiology
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Life below water
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,650
Funders: National Natural Science Foundation of China, Natural Science Foundation of Guangxi Province, Scientific Research and Technology Development Program of Guangxi, Cultivating Plan Program for the Leader in Science and Technology of Yunnan Province, Science and Technology Major Project of Guangxi
OpenAlex ID: W4411336071