Pollen mother cells of Tradescantia clone 4430 and Tradescantia pallida var. purpurea are equally sensitive to the clastogenic effects of X-rays.

F Suyama,M Domingos,E.S Alves,H.A Carvalho,D.-J.A Lobo,G.S Rodrigues,E.T Guimarães,P.H.N Saldiva

doi:10.1590/s0100-879x2002000100018

Abstract

The Tradescantia micronucleus test is a sensitive bioassay for mutagenesis that may be employed both under field and laboratory conditions. This test has been standardized mostly on the basis of the results obtained with clone 4430. However, this clone is not well adapted to tropical weather, frequently showing problems with growth and flowering. In addition, it is attacked by parasites and insects, a fact that limits its use in field studies aiming at the biomonitoring of air pollution. In the city of São Paulo, Tradescantia pallida (Rose) Hunt. var. purpurea Boom is widely distributed as an ornamental plant in gardens and along roadsides and streets, mostly because of its natural resistance and its easy propagation. In this report, we present dose-response curves indicating that the sensitivity of T. pallida and clone 4430 to X-radiation (1, 10, 25 and 50 cGy) is similar. The results confirm our previous suggestion that T. pallida represents a good alternative for in situ mutagenesis testing in tropical regions, especially biomonitoring studies in which the exposure conditions may not be fully controllable.

Highlights

On the basis of these considerations, we explored the feasibility of the use of T. pallida in pollution studies, with positive results [68]
The Tradescantia micronucleus test is a sensitive bioassay for mutagenesis that may be employed both under field and laboratory conditions
We present doseresponse curves indicating that the sensitivity of T. pallida and clone 4430 to X-radiation (1, 10, 25 and 50 cGy) is similar

Summary

Introduction

On the basis of these considerations, we explored the feasibility of the use of T. pallida in pollution studies, with positive results [68]. 455 01246-000 São Paulo, SP Brasil E-mail: pepino@usp.br The Tradescantia micronucleus test is a sensitive bioassay for mutagenesis that may be employed both under field and laboratory conditions.

Results

Conclusion