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Banded polytene chromosomes in developing endosperm of pearl millet
T V Rajya Lakshmi1, C Nimmi, K G Raja Rao
1Department of Botany, Andhra University, Waltair 530 003, India. Rajyalakshmit@hotmail.com
The Journal of Heredity
|September 6, 2001
Summary
Polyteny, a chromosome phenomenon, was observed in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) endosperm. This finding suggests polyteny is possible in pearl millet under controlled conditions.
Area of Science:
- Plant genetics
- Cytology
Background:
- Polyteny, characterized by giant chromosomes, is well-documented in Dipteran salivary glands.
- Its occurrence in plants, particularly in endosperm tissue, is less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and characteristics of polyteny in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum).
- To explore the potential for inducing polyteny in pearl millet under controlled conditions.
Main Methods:
- Microscopic examination of endosperm tissue from field-grown and cultured pearl millet (variety Vg272).
- Observation of chromosome structure for polyteny indicators.
Main Results:
- Polyteny was observed in the endosperm of field-grown and cultured pearl millet.
- The polytene chromosomes exhibited a distinct banded structure, comparable to Dipteran salivary gland chromosomes.
Conclusions:
- Polyteny occurs naturally in the endosperm of pearl millet.
- The findings indicate that inducing polyteny in pearl millet under controlled physiological conditions is feasible.