The Influence of Gamma-Radiation on Intensity of Alkaloids Biosyntheses

As a result of experiments conducted on beforeshowing gamma-irradiation of stramonium (Datura stramonium, L.) it was ascertained that it was possible to direct purposefully the secondary metabolism of plant by the use of ionizing radiation. It is found that seeds' exposure to gamma-radiation at a dose of 100Gy is effective practical means for the increase of activity of biosynthesis of pharmacologically important compounds. This dose also affects the process of the whole biomass accumulation. In case of seed's exposure to gamma-radiation at a dose of 100Gy plant biomass decreases insignificantly (4-6%) in comparison with control while the index of activity of biosynthesis of tropane alkaloids increases by 41%. It should also be observed that the means offered by us is effective mainly after blossoming of plant. (author)