The effect of the edein complex on the activity of apical root meristems of Allium cepa L.

Abstract

The effect of a mixture of edeins in water solution on the meristematic activity of Allium cepa L. root tips was studied during the incubation and postincubation periods. Reduction of the elongation growth of the root tips and a strong decrease in. the number of mitoses was observed what, as cytochemical and autoradiographical studies have shown, is due to the inhibition of DNA synthesis. DNA synthesis is completely inhibited after 24 hrs of incubation. Changes caused by 25 ppm concentration of the solution are reversible during postincubation. The concentration of 50 ppm produces irreversible damage. The main direction of cytochemical changes caused by the action of edeins on the meristematic cells is in good accordance with those recorded for bacterial cells (Kuryło-Borowska 1962, Borowski and Chmara 1968).