title: Genotype dependent radiosensitivity of autotetraploids in Trigonella foenum-graecum L.
abstract: Different diploids of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. and their corresponding autotetraploids were seed-treated with 40 krad of γ-rays, and parameters such as germination, survival, growth reduction, pollen fertility, pod setting, etc. were recorded. A stimulation of seed germination due to the irradiation could be observed. Contrary to the general rule that polyploids are more radioresistant than their corresponding diploids, one 4x strain was completely killed while the 2x version survived comparatively well. Apparently gene reduplication is not the overall protective mechanism as was once earlier believed. The importance of genotypic influence on radiosensitivity was demonstrated at both the 2x and 4x level. The limitation of interphase chromosome volume and degree of ploidy in predicting radiosensitivity is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Cytogenetics and Plant Breeding Laboratory, Botany Department, Lucknow University, Lucknow, India.
authors.forename: S S
authors.initials: SS
authors.lastname: Raghuvanshi
authors.forename: A K
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Singh