Characterization of Ethyl Methanesulfonate (EMS)-Induced Mutants in Durum Wheat: Dose-Response Analysis and Mutagenic Effects Assessment

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the optimal dosage of ethyl methanesulfonate to achieve at least 50% seed germination and a 30% survival rate in durum wheat, and to investigate phenotypic variations in subsequent mutant generations. The study employed response surface methodology to optimize EMS mutagenesis conditions, analyzing three variables: imbibition time, ethyl methanesulfonate concentration, and ethyl methanesulfonate exposure duration, each at three distinct levels. The optimal conditions were determined to be a 4-hour imbibition period followed by an 18-hour exposure to a 0.7% ethyl methanesulfonate solution. Under these conditions, 10% of the M₁ generation and 3% of the M₂ generation exhibited phenotypic variations. Common morphological abnormalities observed included altered spike morphology, abnormal leaf coloration, and irregular leaf morphology. These findings contribute to the practical methodologies used in the field of plant genetics and crop improvement, particularly for generating genetic variability in cereal crops. Additionally, it provided valuable insights into the optimal conditions for inducing mutagenesis in durum wheat, which can be applied in Targeting Induced Local Lesions IN Genomes (TILLING) and eco-TILLING experiments.