Lead induced genotoxicity in Vigna mungo var. HD-94

Lead (Pb) is a common environmental pollutant in most of the industrialized countries. Its genotoxic effect on the living organisms is a major concern globally. In the present investigation we studied the genotoxic effect of Pb exposure on Vigna mungo var. HD-94 seeds. Seeds of V. mungo were treated with different concentrations of lead (25, 50, 75, 100 and 125 ppm) for 6 h. A significant reduction in mitotic index (p < 0.05) was observed in seeds exposed to lead compared to control group which decreased with an increase in concentration of Pb and duration of treatment. In addition, a significantly higher percentage (p < 0.001) of chromosomal abnormalities was observed in the mitotic stage of these seeds. In conclusion, the heavy metal Pb can reduce the germination potential by inhibiting the mitosis and causing extensive cytogenetic errors in seedlings.