Chromosomal aberrations in plants under magnetic fluid influence

The study was focussed on the influence of a petroleum magnetic fluid upon the cell proliferation in young plants of agricultural interest. Zea mays plants, in their early ontogenetic stages were treated with magnetic fluid in relatively low concentrations (up to 100 mu l/l) and root meristem was investigated by cytogenetical methods. The cell proliferation rate was found significantly enhanced as well as the percentage of chromosomal aberrations. Micronuclei, bridges, chromosome fragments and three-polar anaphases were the main types of chromosomal aberrations. (c) 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.