The influence of post-treatment storage on the frequency of ethyleneimine-induced chromosomal aberrations and gene mutations in barley.

Abstract

Dry seeds of spring barley variety MOS-121 were treated with ethyleneimine and after the treatment were stored in the desiccator over granulated KOH from 6 to 46 days. During this period statistically significant changes in the general level of chromosome rearrangements, number of chlorophyll mutations, death-rate and fertility of M 1-plants were observed. The spectrum of chlorophyll mutations also changed. The maximum genetic effect resulting from storage was noted by the 18th day, and this was followed by the decrease of injuries reached zero by the 46th day. The mode of changes in dynamics of the formation of chromosome aberrations, chlorophyll mutations and recessive lethal mutations proves the similar nature of the initial mechanisms of their potential changes.