Effects of weak electromagnetic fields onPhysarum polycephalum: Mitotic delay in heterokaryons and decreased respiration

Summary Continuous exposure ofPhysarum polycephalum to a 75 Hz, 2.0 G, and 0.7 V/m electromagnetic field results in a depressed respiration rate and a lengthening of the mitotic cell cycle. If unexposedPhysarum are mixed with exposedPhysarum the onset of synchronous mitosis in the mixed culture is delayed, occurring at a time between those of the 2 parent cultures.Acknowledgment. This work was supported by the Naval Electronics Systems Command through an Office of Naval Research Contract and a grant from Parkside's Center for the Application of Computers.