"In vivo", effectivity of codeine sulfate on the meiotic chromosomes of Saccobranchus fossilis.

Abstract

Codeine sulfate which is obtained from opium or made by methylating morphine has been found to induce a number of anomalies in the meiotic chromosomes of S. fossilis. Feulgen technique was undertaken for experimental studies. At high doses abnormal metaphases, agglutination, achromatic lesions, some breaks and chromosomal scattering were evident. However, the frequency of abnormal metaphases was high amongst the rearrangements. The susceptibility of meiotic metaphase during peak period of breeding is indicative of inhibition in the division activity.