CYTOGENETIC ACTIVITY OF SOME COMMON ANTIOXIDANTS AND THEIR INTERACTION WITH X-RAYS

Experiments were designed to investigate the cytogenetic activity of some commonly used phenolic antioxidants, namely BHA, BHT, BMP and PG, all used widely to preserve and stabilize food products rich in fats and oils. Barley and onion were used as test systems. The treatments reduced seed germination and induced a significant amount of seedling injury. Only PMP treatments produced a moderate amount of chromosomal aberrations while others failed to do so. Being strong antioxidants it was expected that these compounds would reduce the cytogenetic damage caused by the radiations. Contrary to expectations, however, a significant increase was observed in the radiation damage measured as seed and seedling lethality and chromosomal aberrations. Chemical post-treatments also increased the radiation damage. The damage was, however, reduced with ATP post-irradiation treatment. © 1979.