Induced gene mutation and mitotic non-disjunction in A. nidulans

Toxicants of different classes were analysed for capacity to induce gene mutation and mitotic non-disjunction in Aspergillus nidulans, using selective and permissive tests, respectively. Ethanol, Amphotericin B and MIcanozole, all affecting membrane integrity, induced only non-disjunction, emphasizing the röle of the membrane in mitosis. Benomyl and isopropyl-3-chlorophenyl carbamate (CIPC), two pesticides which interfere with spindle system, induced only non-disjunction. Conversely, mitomycin C markedly increased mutation rate but not ono-disjunction and scarcely affected the viability. The comparative analysis of these two different genetic damages should prove useful in evaluating hazards of drugs.