Sinusoidal Magnetic Fields: Effects on the Growth and Ergosterol Content in Mycorrhizal Fungi

Abstract

The effects of weak, extremely low-frequency magnetic fields on the growth and membrane lipid ergosterol of mycorrhizal fungi Pisolichus tinctorius were studied. Two types of media were used: solid (pH 6) and liquid (pH 3). The homogeneous sinusoidal magnetic field, generated by a pair of Helmholtz coils with magnetic flux density 0.025 and 0.1 mT and frequency 50 Hz, enhanced the growth of mycelia at early stages of development. The same field at 0.01 mT, 46 Hz had no observable effects. Analysis of the fungi-specific membrane constituent ergosterol by high-performance liquid chromatography revealed a slightly increased content of ergosterol in the mycelia (along with the observation of stimulated growth). The results indicate some importance of the membrane which is probably the acceptor of electromagnetic signals, as has been revealed by many studies with animals. However, the exact mechanisms for the explanation of these effects are not known yet.

Key Words:

• Pisolithus tinctonus
• Mycorrhizal fungi
• Growth
• Ergosterol
• Electromagnetic stimulation