Mitotic delay following x-radiation in the meristem cells of Pisum sativum

Journal Article · Sun Dec 01 04:00:00 EST 1963 · Radiation Botany

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/S0033-7560(63)80002-2· OSTI ID:4087256

Van't Hof, J.

A decrease in the number of dividing cells in the root meristem of Pisum sativum was observed following X-ray exposures of 100, 200, and 400 r. Using the technique of labeling cells with tritiated thymidine, it was found that radiation-induced blockage of cells passing from the S to G₂ interphase period was responsible for mitotic delay. The duration of effect was dose dependent, but the initial drop in the number of dividing cells was independent of dose. When tritiated thymidine was administered immediately following exposure, the percentage of labeled interphase cells was reduced below that of the control. However, when the label was administered 2 hr after exposure to X-rays, no difference between controls and irradiated meristems was observed. Finally, it was concluded that mitotic delay resulted from radiation-induced changes in the cells that were not exclusively involved in DNA synthesis but rather with the transition between the S and G₂ conditions.

• Research Organization: General Electric Co., Richland, Wash.
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE
• NSA Number: NSA-18-013531
• OSTI ID: 4087256
• Journal Information: Radiation Botany, Journal Name: Radiation Botany Journal Issue: 4 Vol. 3; ISSN 0033-7560
• Country of Publication: Country unknown/Code not available
• Language: English

Related Subjects

BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE