Induction of Genetic Variability in Cosmos atrosanguineus (Hook.) Voss by Gamma Irradiation: A Model for Conserving Mexican Endemic Species

Authors

  • Rosa Isela Martínez-Contreras Universidad Autónoma Chapingo. Departamento de Fitotecnia. Carretera México-Texcoco km 38.5. Texcoco. Estado de México. C. P. 56230. México https://orcid.org/0009-0007-7098-6273
  • José Luis Rodríguez-de la O Universidad Autónoma Chapingo. Departamento de Fitotecnia. Carretera México-Texcoco km 38.5. Texcoco. Estado de México. C. P. 56230. México
  • María Teresa Beryl Colinas y León Universidad Autónoma Chapingo. Departamento de Fitotecnia. Carretera México-Texcoco km 38.5. Texcoco. Estado de México. C. P. 56230. México https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2617-5928
  • Ma Teresa Martínez Damián Universidad Autónoma Chapingo. Departamento de Fitotecnia. Carretera México-Texcoco km 38.5. Texcoco. Estado de México. C. P. 56230. México
  • Guadalupe Stefanny Aguilar Moreno Universidad Autónoma Chapingo. Departamento de Fitotecnia. Secretaría de Ciencia, Humanidades, Tecnología e Innovación (SECIHTI). Carretera México-Texcoco km 38.5. Texcoco. Estado de México. C. P. 56230. México https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9668-5902

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.48162/rev.39.224

Keywords:

ionizing radiation, in vitro mutagenesis, hormesis, genetic improvement, radiosensitivity

Abstract

Chocolate cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus (Hook.) Voss) is an endemic Mexican ornamental species characterized by low genetic variability and limited propagation. Gamma irradiation-induced mutagenesis represents a valuable strategy for generating genetic variation and supporting conservation programs. This study evaluated the effects of different cobalt-60 (60Co) irradiation doses (0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 Gy) on the morphological response of in vitro-cultured axillary buds of chocolate cosmos and determined its median lethal dose (LD50). Explants cultured on MS medium were irradiated and evaluated in two stages: post-irradiation recovery and multiple sprouting. Morphological variables (explant length, number of shoots, and leaves) and the presence of roots and callus were assessed. Data were analyzed using nonparametric and Fisher’s exact tests. The LD50 was estimated by simple linear regression. Survival was 100% in all treatments. The 10 Gy dose stimulated sprouting and leaf number. Morphogenetic development was significantly inhibited from 20 Gy onwards. Root formation was limited in all treatments, while callus formation declined sharply at higher doses. The estimated LD50 was 20 Gy (R2=0.94). These findings provide a basis for future mutation-breeding and conservation programs of chocolate cosmos.

Highlights:

  • Moderate gamma irradiation stimulated shoot proliferation and leaf development in the chocolate cosmos explants.
  • Doses >20 Gy of 60Co inhibited the growth of chocolate cosmos shoots, suggesting a possible hormesis effect.
  • The estimated LD50 of 20 Gy provides a valuable reference for future mutation-breeding programs in chocolate cosmos.

 

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Published

06-08-2026

How to Cite

Martínez-Contreras, R. I., Rodríguez-de la O, J. L., Colinas y León, M. T. B., Martínez Damián, M. T., & Aguilar Moreno, G. S. (2026). Induction of Genetic Variability in Cosmos atrosanguineus (Hook.) Voss by Gamma Irradiation: A Model for Conserving Mexican Endemic Species. Revista De La Facultad De Ciencias Agrarias Uncuyo, 58(2), e9327. https://doi.org/10.48162/rev.39.224

Issue

Vol. 58 No. 2 (2026): July-December

Section

Genetics and plant breeding

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