Hally J. Sax

CYCASIN: RADIOMIMETIC EFFECT.

Cycasin, methylazoxy-methanol-β-glucoside, a carcinogenic compound that occurs naturally in cycad plants, induces chromosome aberrations in the root-tip cells of Allium cepa. Germination and growth in an aqueous solution of cycasin at a concentration of only 3 percent of that found in Cycas circinalis induced as many aberrations in chromosomes as did about 200 roentgens of gamma irradiation.

Radiomimetic effects of Veratrum

Abstract Veratrum californicum , when eaten by ewes and cows, produces birth defects in lambs and calves. Leaf extracts produce chromosome aberrations in onion root tips, indicating that these birth defects may be caused by the radiomimetic effect of the teratogenic agent.