Cytotoxic Effects of Raphanus Sativus Root Extract on Root Meristem of Allium Cepa

The cytotoxic effects of radish root were investigated on meristematic cells of A. cepa roots. Actively
growing root tips of A. cepa were treated with five concentrations (100%, 75%, 50%, 25% and 10%) of the
root extract for 2,4 and 6 hours respectively. The results showed that the root extract induced various types
of nuclear and chromosomal abnormalities such as binucleate cells, nuclear disintegration, scattered
metaphases, chromatid separation, stickiness of chromosomes, bridge formation, chromosomal
condensation and polarity abolition. It was recorded that radish root extract not only disturbed mitotic
activity but also showed considerable impact on chromosomal behavior