The genotoxicity induced by different levels of inorganic mercury was evaluated by chromosome metaphase analysis in human leucocytes, treated in vitro for 72 hr. Mitotic index gradually decreased with an increase in concentration of mercury but the reverse phenomenon was observed with respect to chromosomal aberration due to its probable interaction with protein and DNA.
Department of Genetics, Vivekananda Institute of Medical Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Seva Pratishthan, 99, Sarat Bose Road, Kolkata 700 026, India. ajantahaldar@yahoo.com
