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A new meiotic abnormality in Zea mays: multiple spindles associated with abnormal cytokinesis in both divisions

C M Caetano-Pereira1, M S Pagliarini

  • 1Centro Federal de Eduçacão Tecnologica de Paraná (CEFET-PR), Brazil.

Genome
|October 30, 2001
PubMed

Insights

A new meiotic abnormality in Zea mays caused scattered chromosomes and multiple spindles during meiosis. This resulted in polyads, varying pollen sizes, and up to 93.5% sterility.

Area of Science:

  • Plant genetics
  • Cell biology
  • Reproductive biology

Background:

  • Meiosis is a fundamental process for sexual reproduction in plants.
  • Proper chromosome segregation is crucial for viable gamete formation.
  • Aberrant meiotic events can lead to reduced fertility and genetic instability.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To document and characterize a novel meiotic abnormality in Zea mays.
  • To investigate the cellular mechanisms underlying this meiotic defect.
  • To determine the consequences of this abnormality on pollen formation and fertility.

Main Methods:

  • Microscopic observation of meiotic stages in Zea mays.
  • Analysis of chromosome behavior and spindle formation during meiosis I and II.
  • Assessment of pollen viability and ploidy.

Main Results:

  • Observed failure of chromosome congregation at metaphase I, leading to multiple spindles.
  • Irregular cytokinesis occurred during both meiosis I and II.
  • The abnormality resulted in the formation of polyads with varying pollen grain sizes.
  • Sterility rates reached up to 93.5% in the affected plant.

Conclusions:

  • The identified meiotic abnormality disrupts normal chromosome segregation and cytokinesis.
  • This defect significantly impacts pollen development and leads to high levels of sterility in Zea mays.
  • Understanding such abnormalities provides insights into the genetic control of meiosis.

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