Investigation of natural genetic variability and mutations in common voles (Microtus arvalis Pallas) and laboratory mice induced by polychlorinated biphenyls and ammonium nitrate
The genetic variability of the common vole (Microtus arvalis Pallas) inhabiting the shores and island of Lake Kretuonas in the National Park of Aukštaitija was investigated by the tests of sperm abnormalities and embryo lethality. The levels of sperm abnormalities and embryo lethality were significa...
| Main Authors: | , |
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| Format: | Article in Journal/Newspaper |
| Language: | Lithuanian English |
| Published: |
2003
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://lmavb.lvb.lt/LMAVB:ELABAPDB5207201&prefLang=en_US |
| Summary: | The genetic variability of the common vole (Microtus arvalis Pallas) inhabiting the shores and island of Lake Kretuonas in the National Park of Aukštaitija was investigated by the tests of sperm abnormalities and embryo lethality. The levels of sperm abnormalities and embryo lethality were significantly higher in common voles trapped in the island than in voles inhabiting the shores. It is possible that the elevated level of genetic variability in island common voles could be caused by inbreeding taking place in an isolated population. The male of common voles and laboratorial mice were treated with polychlorinated biphenyls and ammonium nitrate in order to estimate the genetic susceptibility of generative cells of both species to widespread environmental pollutants. Polychlorinated biphenyls and ammonium nitrate did not increase the frequency of abnormal sperm in common voles, while the same doses of these chemical compounds in mice showed a significant effect. The lower genetic susceptibility of common vole male cells probably could be explained by adaptation of wild animals to contamination with genotoxic agents of their natural environment. |
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