The paper covers investigation of cytogenetic activity of chiral mutagens and their specific effects on the plant cells chromosomes of soft winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Сomparative analysis of cytogenetic activity of chiral NEU: S(+)1-N-nitroso-1-N-methyl-3-N-sec-buthylureas (S(+)NMsBU) and R(–)1-N-nitroso-1N-methyl-3-N-sec-buthylureas (R(–)NMsBU) on winter wheat was performed. As it was shown by the frequency of chromosomal aberrations the S(+) stereoisomer was twice more active than R(–). In addition to typical anaphase aberrations (fragments, bridges, lagging chromosomes) the numerous mitosis pathologies were revealed – K-mitoses, hyperspiralization and despiralization of chromosomes, unequal allocation of chromosomes between the daughter nuclei, mass fragmentation, nondisjunction and chromosome adhesion, three-pole mitoses, etc. Neither of the mentioned pathologies was observed under the action of NEU and gamma-rays.
Keywords: Triticum aestivum L., mutagens, chirality, chromosomal aberrations, mitosis pathology
