Exposure of Vicia faba and Pisum sativum to copper-induced genotoxicity

• DOI: 10.1007/s00709-008-0004-9
• Publication Date: 2008-06-11T07:41:25Z
• Authors: D. Souguir; E. Ferjani; G. Ledoigt; P. Goupil
• Keywords: Clastogen; Root tip

The potential genotoxicity of Cu(2+) was investigated in Vicia faba and Pisum sativum seedlings in hydroponic culture conditions. Cu(2+) caused a dose-dependent increase in micronuclei frequencies in both plant models. Cytological analysis of root tips cells showed clastogenic and aneugenic effects of this heavy metal on V. faba root meristems. Cu(2+) induced chromosomal alterations at the lowest concentration used (2.5 mM) when incubated for 42 h, indicating the potent mutagenic effect of this ion. A spectrum of chromosomal abnormalities was observed in V. faba root meristems, illustrating the genotoxic events leading to micronuclei formation.