Impact of controlled microwave radiation in enhancing the productivity of Abelmoschus esculentus seedlings (L.) Moench

Abstract

The study describes the impact of microwave radiation on the germination rate and growth of Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench (okra). The two okra varieties, viz. Meenaxi-371 and Soniya-1402, were used for the experiment. Their seeds were exposed to 0–14 h (h) of microwave radiation (9.3 GHz). Non-irradiated seeds (0 h exposure) served as control. We found that microwave radiation on seeds resulted in an increase in their germination indices and also stimulated the concentration of β-1,3-glucanase enzyme. The results also indicate a remarkable increase in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids, chlorophyll, lutein, protein, and β-carotene in okra seedlings exposed to 8–10 h of radiation. A further dose escalation in the microwave radiation caused a decline in the germination and growth of the okra plant. The expression level of ACS4, ETR2, and ACS6 showed up-regulation under the influence of microwave irradiated conditions. Therefore, it is evident that a well-controlled and defined irradiation has the potential to enhance the overall growth and yield of selected okra varieties. Abbreviations: RNA: ribonucleic acid; qRT-PCR: quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction; EMF: electromagnetic field; ACS: amino cyclo synthase; ETR: ethylene transport receptor

Keywords

• microwave radiation
• β-galactosidase
• protein content
• photosynthetic pigments
• okra seeds