Action of new epimutagen factor on winter wheat at cytogenetic level
Abstract
This study evaluated the epimutagenic potential of Nonidet P-40 (NP-40) in winter wheat by examining its ability to induce chromosomal aberrations, elucidating genotype-mutagen interactions, and assessing its predictive value at the cellular level for inducing epigenetic mutations at the plant level. Four winter wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) varieties – Perspektyva Odeska, Son a ta Poltavska, Shpalivka, and MIP Lada – were treated with NP-40 at concentrations of 0.01%, 0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.5%. Cytog e netic effects were evaluated through pollen sterility and the frequency and spectrum of chromosomal aberrations during mitosis in root-tip cells. Results demonstrated significant genotype-specific responses to NP-40 treatment, particularly highlighting the variety MIP Lada as highly responsive. This variety showed the greatest genotype-specific sensitivity, making it a strong cand i date for targeted induction of genetic variability and selection of mutant forms. Among tested concentrations, 0.5% NP-40 proved most effective, inducing substantial chromosomal aberrations while maintaining acceptable viability, thus optimizing mutation induction and limiting adverse effects. Conversely, moderate NP-40 concentrations (0.01–0.1 0 %) were less effective, striking an inadequate balance between beneficial mutation induction and viability. Key cytogenetic indicators of genotype susceptibility included pollen fertility rates, overall chromosomal aberration frequencies, and the incidence of rare cytological anomalies such as micronuclei and lagging chromosomes. In contrast, the abundance of fragments and bridges was less analytically informative. Notably, the chromosomal aberration induction patterns by NP-40 were distinct from those observed previously with classical chemical supermutagens, varying significantly according to genetic background. These findings provide critical insights into the epimutagenic properties of NP-40, emphasizing the importance of genotype selection and concentration optimization for effe c tive breeding strategies. Further research will integrate these cytogenetic findings with studies on hereditary variability in bi o chemical and physiological traits, thereby refining epimutagenic strategies and optimizing breeding programs for winter wheat improvement.References
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