Induction of Multipolar Spindles in the Meiosis of <i>Triticum aestivum</i> as Effected by Acetone

Abstract

In the present investigation, the treatment of pollen mother cells of Triticum aestivum with acetone provided an excellent material for multipolarity. It was possible to follow the formation of the spindle fibre apparatus in the case of multipolar anaphases. Stickiness and chromosome bridges were observed after treatment with high concentrations of acetone. Non-congression phenomenon and free chromosomes in anaphases were found beyond the multipolar anaphases in lower concentrations. The formation of multiple spindle apparatus was discussed and it was concluded that application of acetone may disturb the extrachromosomal mechanism leaving the intrachromosomal process to proceed normally. This disturbance is restricted to the abnormal diffusion of the spindle organisers in many directions instead of two poles.