Effects of Cd2+ on the nucleolus in root tip cells of Allium cepa

The effects of different concentrations of cadmium chloride ranging from 0.5 to 20 ppm on the nucleolus in root tip cells of Allium cepa were studied using the silver staining technique. The results indicated that after the treatment with Cd2+,different changes in nucleolar morphology appeared. The nucleolar material was extruded from the nucleus into the cytoplasm,and the nucleoli at mitotic metaphase did not disappear. Apparently,cadmium showed a specific effects on the nucleoli in root tip cells of Allium cepa. The possible mechanism behind this phenomenon is also briefly discussed.