Effects of Pb(2+) on root growth, cell division, and nucleolus of Zea mays L.

Abstract

The effects of different concentrations (10−5 – 10−2 M) of copper sulfate on root growth, cell division and nucleoli in root tip cells of Zea mays L. were investigated. 10−5 M Cu stimulated root growth, but at higher concentrations (10−4 – 10−2 M) inhibited it. Cu had toxic effects on chromosomal morphology: c-mitosis, anaphase bridges, and chromosome stickiness were induced. Some nuclei had irregular shape and particles extruded from nucleoli to nuclei and finally from the nuclei into the cytoplasm.