Chromosomal Analysis in Cultured Cells of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.): Structural Alterations in Chromosomes

Abstract

Structural aberrations of chromosomes of 150-day-old cultured cells of barley were examined by karyotypic analysis. Minor and major rearrangements were detected in chromosomes; all the metaphase cells analysed from the culture revealed the presence of aberrant chromosomes in them. Analysis of cultured diploid karyotypes showed the inclusion of 44% structurally aberrated chromosomes. It was observed that certain new karyotypes were originated due to chromosomal rearrangements, while the ploidy level remained same as that of original plant. Tetraploid cells carried greater frequency of aberrant chromosomes that diploid cells. Aneuploid cells of the culture also carried 48% structurally altered chromosomes in them. The significance of this study is discussed.