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The influence of oxygen on the x-ray production of chromosome breaks inDrosophila

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Summary

Recent experiments have shown that the X-ray induction of chromosome translocations, sex-linked recessive lethal mutations, and dominant lethal mutations inDrosophila depends on the concentration of oxygen in the atmosphere in which the flies are irradiated. The application of the mathematical theory of chromosomal rearrangements of Haldane & Lea (1947) to these new results is discussed. Agreement between the experimental results and the theory can be secured if the coefficient of break productionα depends on oxygen in much the same way as several other radiobiological effects. The coefficient of sister unionp, equal to 1 -q, is little if at all affected. The productαq depends on the temperature of the flies at the time of irradiation. An hypothesis is suggested in partial explanation of the oxygen effect.

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  1. The Huqh Adams Research Department of the Medical School and the New Zealand Branch of the British Empire Cancer Campaign, University of Otago, Dunedin

    John Read

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  1. John Read
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Read, J. The influence of oxygen on the x-ray production of chromosome breaks inDrosophila . J Genet 52, 473–479 (1954). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02985073

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02985073

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