Variation in tomato genotypes response to X-ray irradiation and estimation of the effective doses [Articol]

Abstract

The study investigates the response of 15 tomato genotypes (cultivated and wild forms) to X-ray irradiation, aiming to determine effective mutagenic doses that result in a 50% reduction in key quantitative parameters: germination rate, radicle length, hypocotyl height, and seedling height. Seeds were exposed to 10 irradiation doses (ranging from 100 to 530 Gy), and the effects were assessed in comparison to a non-irradiated control. Linear, nonlinear, and polynomial regression models were applied, along with dose–response curve analysis, to estimate the effective inhibitory doses (ID₅₀/ID₃₀) for the efficient use of induced mutagenesis in the M₀ and subsequent generations. The results reveal considerable variability among genotypes, including stimulatory (hormetic) effects at lower doses. These findings are essential for optimizing mutagenesis protocols in tomato breeding programs.