Spectral Characterization of Bennu Analogs Using PASCALE: A New Experimental Set-Up for Simulating the Near-Surface Conditions of Airless Bodies

We describe the capabilities, radiometric stability, and calibration of a custom vacuum environment chamber capable of simulating the near-surface conditions of airless bodies. Here we demonstrate the collection of spectral measurements of a suite of fine particulate asteroid analogs made using the Planetary Analogue Surface Chamber for Asteroid and Lunar Environments (PASCALE) under conditions like those found on Earth and on airless bodies. The sample suite includes anhydrous and hydrated physical mixtures, and chondritic meteorites (CM, CI, CV, CR, and L5) previously characterized under Earth- and asteroid-like conditions. And for the first time, we measure the terrestrial and extra-terrestrial mineral end members used in the olivine- and phyllosilicate-dominated physical mixtures under the same conditions as the mixtures and meteorites allowing us better understand how minerals combine spectrally when mixed intimately. Our measurements highlight the sensitivity of thermal infrared emissivity spectra to small amounts of low albedo materials and the composition of the sample materials. As the albedo of the sample decreases, we observe smaller differences between Earth- and asteroid-like spectra, which results from a reduced thermal gradient in the upper hundreds of microns in the sample. These spectral measurements can be compared to thermal infrared emissivity spectra of asteroid (101955) Bennu's surface in regions where similarly fine particulate materials may be observed to infer surface compositions.

Bright carbonate veins on asteroid (101955) Bennu: Implications for aqueous alteration history

The composition of asteroids and their connection to meteorites provide insight into geologic processes that occurred in the early Solar System. We present spectra of the Nightingale crater region on near-Earth asteroid Bennu with a distinct infrared absorption around 3.4 micrometers. Corresponding images of boulders show centimeters-thick, roughly meter-long bright veins. We interpret the veins as being composed of carbonates, similar to those found in aqueously altered carbonaceous chondrite meteorites. If the veins on Bennu are carbonates, fluid flow and hydrothermal deposition on Bennu's parent body would have occurred on kilometer scales for thousands to millions of years. This suggests large-scale, open-system hydrothermal alteration of carbonaceous asteroids in the early Solar System.

Observations, Meteorites, and Models: A Preflight Assessment of the Composition and Formation of (16) Psyche

Some years ago, the consensus was that asteroid (16) Psyche was almost entirely metal. New data on density, radar properties, and spectral signatures indicate that the asteroid is something perhaps even more enigmatic: a mixed metal and silicate world. Here we combine observations of Psyche with data from meteorites and models for planetesimal formation to produce the best current hypotheses for Psyche's properties and provenance. Psyche's bulk density appears to be between 3,400 and 4,100 kg m-3. Psyche is thus predicted to have between ~30 and ~60 vol% metal, with the remainder likely low-iron silicate rock and not more than ~20% porosity. Though their density is similar, mesosiderites are an unlikely analog to bulk Psyche because mesosiderites have far more iron-rich silicates than Psyche appears to have. CB chondrites match both Psyche's density and spectral properties, as can some pallasites, although typical pallasitic olivine contains too much iron to be consistent with the reflectance spectra. Final answers, as well as resolution of contradictions in the data set of Psyche physical properties, for example, the thermal inertia measurements, may not be resolved until the NASA Psyche mission arrives in orbit at the asteroid. Despite the range of compositions and formation processes for Psyche allowed by the current data, the science payload of the Psyche mission (magnetometers, multispectral imagers, neutron spectrometer, and a gamma-ray spectrometer) will produce data sets that distinguish among the models.

Evidence for widespread hydrated minerals on asteroid (101955) Bennu

Early spectral data from the Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security-Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS-REx) mission reveal evidence for abundant hydrated minerals on the surface of near-Earth asteroid (101955) Bennu in the form of a near-infrared absorption near 2.7 μm and thermal infrared spectral features that are most similar to those of aqueously altered CM carbonaceous chondrites. We observe these spectral features across the surface of Bennu, and there is no evidence of substantial rotational variability at the spatial scales of tens to hundreds of meters observed to date. In the visible and near-infrared (0.4 to 2.4 μm) Bennu's spectrum appears featureless and with a blue (negative) slope, confirming previous ground-based observations. Bennu may represent a class of objects that could have brought volatiles and organic chemistry to Earth.

Dawn at Vesta: testing the protoplanetary paradigm

The Dawn spacecraft targeted 4 Vesta, believed to be a remnant intact protoplanet from the earliest epoch of solar system formation, based on analyses of howardite-eucrite-diogenite (HED) meteorites that indicate a differentiated parent body. Dawn observations reveal a giant basin at Vesta's south pole, whose excavation was sufficient to produce Vesta-family asteroids (Vestoids) and HED meteorites. The spatially resolved mineralogy of the surface reflects the composition of the HED meteorites, confirming the formation of Vesta's crust by melting of a chondritic parent body. Vesta's mass, volume, and gravitational field are consistent with a core having an average radius of 107 to 113 kilometers, indicating sufficient internal melting to segregate iron. Dawn's results confirm predictions that Vesta differentiated and support its identification as the parent body of the HEDs.

Response to Comment on "Ancient Asteroids Enriched in Refractory Inclusions"

Although the exact abundance of phases in carbonaceous chondrites remains debatable, a potentially lower absolute abundance of calcium- and aluminum-rich inclusions (CAIs) in the Allende meteorite does not change our fundamental conclusion. In a relative comparison, CAI-rich asteroids contain two to three times as many CAIs as the most CAI-rich meteorites. These asteroids are therefore greatly enriched in the earliest solar system materials and remain enticing targets for future exploration.

The elemental composition of asteroid 433 eros: results of the NEAR-shoemaker X-ray spectrometer

We report major element composition ratios for regions of the asteroid 433 Eros imaged during two solar flares and quiet sun conditions during the period of May to July 2000. Low aluminum abundances for all regions argue against global differentiation of Eros. Magnesium/silicon, aluminum/silicon, calcium/silicon, and iron/silicon ratios are best interpreted as a relatively primitive, chondritic composition. Marked depletions in sulfur and possible aluminum and calcium depletions, relative to ordinary chondrites, may represent signatures of limited partial melting or impact volatilization.

Signatures of the martian atmosphere in glass of the Zagami meteorite

Isotopic signatures of nitrogen, argon, and xenon have been determined in separated millimeter-sized pockets of shock-melted glass in a recently identified lithology of the meteorite Zagami, a shergottite. The ratio of nitrogen-15 to nitrogen-14, which is at least 282 per mil larger than the terrestrial value, the ratio of xenon-129 to xenon-132 = 2.40, and the argon isotopic abundances match the signatures previously observed in the glassy lithology of the Antarctic shergottite EETA 79001. These results show that the signatures in EETA 79001 are not unique but characterize the trapped gas component in shock-melted glass of shergottites. The isotopic and elemental ratios of nitrogen, argon, and xenon closely resemble the Viking spacecraft data for the martian atmosphere and provide compelling evidence for a martian origin of the two shergottites and, by extension, of the meteorites in the shergottites-nakhlites-chassignites (SNC) group.

Introduction and expression of an insect proteinase inhibitor in alfalfa Medicago sativa L

As one approach to alleviating the need for insecticide spraying, our objective is to express protein insecticides in transgenic alfalfa. To initiate these studies, a cDNA encoding the protease inhibitor (PI) anti-elastase from Manduca sexta was placed under the control of the CaMV 35S promoter, inserted into pAN 70, and transferred into leaf and petiole sections of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) using Agrobacterium tumefaciens mediated gene transfer. Transformation rates were 10% of all explants exposed to Agrobacterium. More than 1000 transgenic plants containing the PI have been recovered. Transgenic plants were initially identified when leaf explants from the regenerated plants formed callus in the presence of 50 μg/ml kanamycin, and subsequently the presence of the PI gene was confirmed by southern analysis. The 35S promoter-PI fusion produced up to 0.125% of total protein as PI protein in leaves, roots, and flowers. Progeny analysis demonstrated Mendelian segregation of the NPTII gene (observed as kanamycin resistance) and the PI (confirmed by southern analysis). Accumulation of the anti-elastase PI insecticide in transgenic alfalfa reduced the onset of thrip predation, suggesting that this methodology can establish insect resistance within this agronomically important legume.

Linkage mapping in diploid alfalfa (Medicago sativa)

A genome map of cultivated alfalfa was constructed using segregating restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) and random amplified polymorphic DNAs (RAPDs) in a diploid backcross population generated from noninbred parents. Among the 153 loci scored in 87 progeny, four segregation ratios were observed for codominant and dominant markers: 1:1, 1:2:1, 1:1:1:1, and 3:1. Deviations from expected Mendelian ratios (p < 0.05) were observed for 34% of the loci studied. A genome map was assembled from two separate linkage maps, each constructed from a subset of the segregation data. One linkage map was constructed from 46 RFLP and 40 RAPD markers segregating 1:1 from the F1 parent of the backcross and the other linkage map was constructed from 33 RFLP and 28 RAPD markers segregating 1:1 from the recurrent parent. Sixteen loci with alleles segregating 1:1 from both parents were used as locus bridges to align individual linkage groups between the two maps. The combined use of RFLPs and RAPDs was an effective method for developing an alfalfa genome map.

Potential of trispecies bridge crosses and random amplified polymorphic DNA markers for introgression of Medicago daghestanica and M. pironae germplasm into alfalfa (M. sativa)

This report describes the production and cytology of the first interspecific hybrids between cultivated alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) at the diploid level (2n = x = 16) and the diploid (2n = 2x = 16) perennial species M. daghestanica and M. pironae. An ovule-embryo culture technique was required to rescue hybrid embryos and all hybrids were diploid. Predominately bivalent chromosome pairing was observed at meiotic metaphase. All F1 hybrids were male and female sterile and no species backcross progeny could be produced. We discovered that trispecies hybrids could be efficiently recovered via crossing diploid F1 interspecific hybrids of M. sativa x M. rupestris with either M. daghestanica or M. pironae. Ovule-embryo culture was also required to recover these trispecies hybrids with recovery efficiency of trispecies hybrids about 10 times greater than for bispecies hybrids. Most chromosomes paired as bivalents in the trispecies hybrids. Importantly, progeny can be recovered from crossing the trispecies hybrids with M. sativa. Therefore, the M. sativa x M. rupestris hybrids provide a bridge cross to potential introgression of M. daghestanica or M. pironae germplasm. Analysis of randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers in the trispecies hybrids indicates that RAPD markers offer considerable potential for assaying germplasm introgression following complex hybridization of the type reported here.

Genetic segregation of random amplified polymorphic DNA in diploid cultivated alfalfa

Polymerase chain reaction was used, with single 10-mer primers of arbitrary sequence, to amplify random regions of genomic DNA from a diploid cultivated alfalfa backcross population. Segregation of the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) fragments was analysed to determine if RAPD markers are suitable for use as genetic markers. Of the 19 primers tested, 13 amplified a total of 37 polymorphic fragments, of which 28 (76%) segregated as dominant Mendelian traits. RAPD markers appear useful for the rapid development of genetic information in species like alfalfa where little information currently exists or is difficult to obtain.

Segregation of molecular markers supports an allotetraploid structure for Medicago sativa × Medicago papillosa interspecific hybrid

Cytogenetic analysis has indicated there is little genomic affinity between the genomes of Medicago sativa L. and Medicago papillosa Boiss. The objective of this study was to determine whether disomic segregation of alleles at isozyme and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) loci occurs in F1 hybrids of M. sativa × M. papillosa. We examined segregation of alleles at seven isozyme loci and 13 RFLP loci. Of the 20 loci analyzed, 11 exhibited a disomic pattern of inheritance, indicative of strict species-specific chromosome pairing in the M. sativa × M. papillosa hybrids. The other nine loci generally followed disomic inheritance, with exceptions. The results provide significant evidence in support of the concept that M. sativa × M. papillosa hybrids are basically allotetraploids with limited genomic affinity between the genomes. This report also represents the first documentation of the utility of RFLP markers in genetic analysis of alfalfa, a species with an essentially nonexistent genetic map.Key words: isozymes, genomic affinity, alfalfa, introgression, restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Series shunt evaluation of polyurethane vascular graft materials in chronically AV-shunted canines

Well characterized, laboratory-synthesized polymeric materials which have been extensively tested for biocompatibility via initial platelet and protein deposition in an acute ex vivo canine model were placed as interpositional series shunts in canines with chronically implanted iliac arteriovenous shunts ex vivo. Platelet deposition was measured on a base polyurethane block copolymer, a sulfonated ionic derivative, an alkyl grafted (C18) derivative, Biomer, polyethylene, and polydimethylsiloxane for 24 h using radiolabeled platelets. Platelet survival and in vitro aggregation were determined to investigate the effects of the shunting procedure on experimental animals. The viability of adopting a chronic arteriovenous (iliac) shunted canine model for use with series shunts to evaluate polyurethanes having applications as materials in vascular graft construction was investigated and the results compared with acute model data.

Messenger RNA induction in cellular salt tolerance of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)

A salt tolerant alfalfaMedicago sativa L. cell line (HG2-N1) has been selected for growth in 171 mM NaCl. The salt tolerance characteristic is stable and is retained after growth in absence of salt selection for two months.In vitro translation was used to compare mRNA composition from the salt tolerant HG2-N1 and parent salt sensitive HG2 cell lines grown in the presence and absence of 171 mM NaCl. The results suggest that the mRNA composition differs between HG2-N1 and HG2 in a number of RNA species. The salt tolerant HG2-N1 shows both increases and decreases in specific polypeptides as compared to HG2. Many of the enhanced polypeptide bands from mRNA in the salt tolerant HG2-N1 variant appear to be constitutively expressed, since they can be detected from HG2-N1 cells grown in presence and absence of NaCl, but the expression of a few bands may depend on the presence of added NaCl. Most enhanced polypeptides, which are detected from mRNA in the salt tolerant variant HG2-N1 (grown on NaCl) are different from polypeptide bands enhanced in the salt sensitive HG2 line as a result of 24 hour salt stress. Similar results were obtained from two dimensional analysis ofin vivo labeled polypeptides. At least one isolated cDNA clone shows selective expression of mRNA in salt tolerant cells grown in NaCl. These results indicate that adaptive mechanisms for salt tolerance may differ in some aspects from acute stress mechanisms.

Acute and chronic canine ex vivo blood interactions with NHLBI-DTB primary reference materials

Thrombus deposition was measured on NHLBI-DTB Primary Reference Material polyethylene (PRM-PE) and polydimethylsiloxane (PRM-SR) and their commercially available counterparts, surgical grade Intramedic polyethylene and Dow Corning Silastic. Canine blood-contacting experiments evaluating short-term (up to 60 min) and longer-term (up to 24 h) thrombus deposition were used to quantitate adherent platelets on the lumenal surface of test materials ex vivo. A similar pattern of thrombus deposition and detachment was observed for all materials in both acute and chronic blood contact. Although differences in the wall shear rates affected the absolute numbers of adherent platelets, the relative levels of thrombus deposition showed similarities between the two experiments, with the polyethylene materials as a group showing slightly less deposition than the silicone rubber materials. The PRM-PE showed the least thrombus deposition at extended exposure to blood. The PRM-SR showed the most thrombus deposition in the acute term. The overall similarity in blood compatibility and surface properties indicates the need for the inclusion of less thromboresistant and more polar reference materials.

A potential solution to the chromosome instability problem in hexaploid alfalfa, Medicago sativa L

Autohexaploid alfalfa (2n = 6x = 48) is chromosomally unstable, which prevents commercial use. The objective of this investigation was to test whether synthesizing Medicago hexaploids (2n = 6x = 48) that are alloautohexaploids results in chromosomally stable hexaploid populations. Previous research in our laboratory demonstrated a lack of affinity between the genomes of alfalfa and M. papillosa Boiss. Triploid (2n = 3x = 24) interspecific hybrids with two M. papillosa genomes and one genome of M. sativa were readily recovered from seed following the cross (2x) M. sativa × (4x) M. papillosa. For this study, the triploids were chromosomally doubled to produce alloautohexaploids, and these alloautohexaploids were used to test chromosome stability in hexaploids with no more than four homologous genomes. Chromosome counts of 47 progeny from intercrossing the alloautohexaploids demonstrated all were hexaploid, indicating chromosome stability. Designing novel genomic combinations based on genomic affinity may result in higher yielding alfalfa populations that have a modified cytogenetic structure.Key words: Medicago cancellata, Medicago papillosa, Medicago saxatilis, genomic affinity, hexaploids.

Allotetraploid behavior of hybrids of Medicago sativa L. and M. papillosa Boiss

Diploid (2n = 2x = 16), triploid (2n = 3x = 24), and tetraploid (2n = 4x = 32) interspecific hybrids between alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and M. papillosa Boiss. were recovered either from seed (the triploid hybrids) or from ovule–embryo culture (the diploid and tetraploid hybrids). Cytogenetic analysis of diploid interspecific hybrids (with one genome of M. sativa, designated S, and one genome of M. papillosa, designated P), indicated significant genomic affinity, with an average of 7.6 bivalents and 0.8 univalents per pollen mother cell. In contrast, cytogenetic analysis of the triploid interspecific hybrids (with one S genome and two P genomes) indicated little if any genomic affinity between M. sativa and M. papillosa. In 7 of 14 triploid hybrids analyzed no trivalent configurations were observed, and in the other hybrids, trivalent frequency ranged from 0.1 to 0.4 per pollen mother cell. Tetraploid interspecific hybrids with two S and two P genomes had predominantly bivalent pairing. Based on the lack of homology of S and P genomes, the tetraploid hybrids are basically allotetraploids (SSPP). Therefore, backcross progeny from crossing the tetraploid hybrids with tetraploid M. sativa have the genomic constitution SSSP. Univalents and trivalents were observed in first backcross (BC1) progeny, as expected, based on an allotetraploid interpretation. Most of the BC1 progeny were partially or completely male sterile, and female fertility was significantly reduced. Potential uses of homoeologous genomes such as M. papillosa in alfalfa genetic and breeding studies are discussed.Key words: cytogenetics, interspecific hybrids, ovule –embryo culture.

Cytogenetic analysis of interspecific hybrids between alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and M. rhodopea Velen

Interspecific hybrids between diploid (2n = 2x = 16) Medicago sativa L. and diploid (2n = 2x = 16) M. rhodopea Velen., were recovered using an ovule–embryo culture methodology. Most hybrids were vigorous, and morphological comparisons demonstrated that F1 hybrids were generally intermediate between that of the parents. Peroxidase isozyme phenotypes of the F1 hybrids confirmed hybridity. The chromosome number of most of the hybrids was diploid (2n = 2x = 16), with the exceptions of two triploids (2n = 3x = 24) and two tetraploid (2n = 4x = 32) plants. Chromosome pairing configurations in diploids were almost exclusively eight bivalents or seven bivalents and two univalents, indicating a high level of homology between the M. sativa and M. rhodopea genomes. However, the one triploid hybrid analyzed had only 0.4 trivalents per microspore mother cell indicating preferential pairing of parental genomes. Pollen stainability, pollen germination, and fertility of the diploid F1 hybrid plants were very low; however, it was possible to obtain backcross progeny (BC1) from seed. Pollen stainability, pollen germination, and fertility of the BC1 plants were also very low; however, most BC1 plants had workable levels of male and female fertility. The utilization of M. rhodopea in studies of the evolution of hexaploid Medicago species is discussed.

Key words: interspecific hybrids, ovule–embryo culture, isozymes, Medicago.

Characterization of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) plants regenerated from selected NaCl tolerant cell lines

Selection of stable, NaCl tolerant alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) cell lines was accomplished by a step-up selection procedure, whereby cell lines originally selected for tolerance at 0.5% NaCl were subsequently selected at 1.0% NaCl. Sodium chloride tolerant cell lines retained tolerance following four subcultures (16 weeks) on control media (0% NaCl). Plants were regenerated from selected NaCl tolerant cell lines of three initial genotypes, one diploid (2n=2x=16) and two tetraploids (2n=4x=32). In addition, plants were regenerated from control cell lines maintained on 0% NaCl media for the same duration. Plants regenerated from NaCl tolerant cell lines were characterized by extensive somaclonal variation compared to plants regenerated from control lines. Morphologically, all plants regenerated from NaCl tolerant cell lines are abnormal and many (44.7%) were extreme dwarfs (maximum height of 5 cm). The grossly aberrant phenotypes prevented an in-depth characterization of many of the plants regenerated from NaCl tolerant cell lines. Most plants regenerated from NaCl tolerant cell lines had unbalanced polyploid chromosome sets with the most extreme cytogenetic variant having 106 chromosomes. In contrast, 98.5% of the plants regenerated from control cell lines were euploid (85% were tetraploid, 15% were octoploid). Isozyme phenotypes of the plants from NaCl tolerant cell lines were also extensively altered, compared to plants from control cell lines. In vitro NaCl tolerance was maintained following plant regeneration for nine of the 12 regenerants tested. Importantly, whole plant NaCl tolerance was expressed in two of the seven regenerated plants tested at the whole plant level; however, only one of these plants has flowered and is both male and female sterile; the other plant has never flowered. Although NaCl tolerant alfalfa cell lines are efficiently selected, the extensive somaclonal variation that accompanied the selection was a deterrent to successful recovery of heritable NaCl tolerance.

Properties of extruded poly(tetramethylene oxide)-polyurethane block copolymers for blood-contacting applications

The bulk and surface properties and blood compatibility of a series of polyurethanes based on methylene bis(p-phenyl isocyanate), 1,4-butanediol, and poly(tetramethylene oxide) of molecular weight 1000 were studied. The hard-to-soft segment ratio of these multiphase polymers was varied, and the effect of substituting a poly(dimethylsiloxane)-containing polyol in place of 5% of the polyether soft segment was studied. Bulk properties such as tensile strength and modulus increased with hard segment content, as did surface wettability and ESCA nitrogen content. However, blood compatibility measured by a canine ex vivo blood-contacting experiment was not found to vary with hard/soft segment ratio. The addition of the silicone-containing polyol did not significantly lower the surface wettability, although ESCA-measured silicon content increased and physical properties were unfavourably affected by the incorporation of this co-soft segment. Incorporation of the siloxane-containing component resulted in increased platelet adhesion and fibrinogen deposition at most blood contact times in comparison with the other polyurethanes.

Tissue culture evaluation of NaCl tolerance in Medicago species: Cellular versus whole plant response

Tissue culture responses to three levels of NaCl (0, 85mM and 170 mM) were evaluated in several Medicago species including: M. dzhawakhetica, M. marina, M. rhodopea, M. rupestris, M. sativa (alfalfa) and M. suffruticosa. The whole plant responses of the same genotypes were evaluated in half-strength Hoagland's solution containing 0, 51.5, and 103 mM NaCl. One or more genotypes of M. dzhawakhetica, M. rhodopea, M. rupestris, and M. sativa exhibited in vitro NaCl tolerance at 85 mM. In addition, one genotype each of M. dzhawakhetica, M. rhodopea, and M. sativa was tolerant of 170 mM NaCl. However, all of the genotypes that demonstrated NaCl tolerance in vitro were NaCl sensitive at the whole plant level. Conversely, M. marina the only species exhibiting whole plant NaCl tolerance, had the most NaCl sensitive genotypes at the in vitro level. Although an in vitro NaCl tolerance mechanism which confers whole plant NaCl tolerance was not observed, a potential NaCl tolerance germplasm source, M. marina, was identified.

Single cross alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) hybrids produced via 2n gametes and somatic chromosome doubling: experimental and theoretical comparisons

The potential breeding value of 2n gametes from diploid alfalfa (2n = 2x = 16) was tested by comparing single cross alfalfa hybrids produced via 2n = 2x gametes from diploids versus n = 2x gametes from somatic-chromosome-doubled, tetraploid counterparts. Three diploid clones, designated 2x-(rprp), homozygous for the gene rp (conditions 2n gamete formation by a first division restitution mechanism) were colchicine-doubled to produce their tetraploid counterparts, designated 4x-(SCD). These six clones were crossed as males to the same cytoplasmic male sterile clone. Yield comparisons of progeny from the six clones demonstrated a significant yield increase of the hybrid progeny from 2n = 2x gametes from the diploids over the hybrid progeny from n = 2x gametes from the chromosome doubled tetraploid counterparts. The yield gain ranged from a 12% increase to a 32% increase. Theoretical comparisons indicated the 2n = 2x gametes from diploids would have 12.5 to 50% more heterozygous loci, on average, than the n = 2x gametes derived from somatic doubling. These results confirm the importance of heterozygosity on alfalfa yield, and the results demonstrate that 2n gametes formed by first division restitution offer a unique method for producing highly heterotic alfalfa hybrids.

Interspecific hybridization of perennial Medicago species using ovule-embryo culture

New interspecific hybrids between alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and several perennial Medicago species were obtained by embryo rescue techniques. The methodology, designated ovule-embryo culture, involved preculturing the fertilized ovule (10 to 20 days post-pollination) for a period of six to 12 days followed by excision and direct culture of the embryo. Placement of the hybrid embryo directly onto culture medium without the interim ovule culture was unsuccessful. Ovule culture to germination without removing the embryo also was unsuccessful. Ovule-embryo culture was essential for recovering interspecific hybrids between diploid alfalfa (2n=2x=16) and the following diploid (2n=2x=16) species: M. hybrida Traut., M. marina L., M. papillosa Boiss., M. rhodopea Velen. and M. rupestris M.B. In addition, trispecies hybrids between M. sativa x M. dzhawakhetica Bordz. F1 hybrids (2n=3x=24) and either M. cancellata M.B. (2n=6x=48) or M. saxatilis M.B. (2n=6x=48) were obtained from ovuleembryo culture. Media manipulations using M. sativa x M. rupestris F1 and first backcross generation embryos demonstrated the optimum concentration of 12.5 mM NH4 (+) for successful embryo rescue; ammonium salt formulation (whether chloride, nitrate or sulfate) was not critical. From a few thousand crosses, hybrids between M. sativa and either M. rhodopea or M. rupestris were recovered relatively efficiently with 157 and 66 hybrids, respectively. However, only 13 hybrids between M. sativa and M. papillosa were obtained from more than 2,000 crosses, and just two hybrids each have been recovered from the combinations M. sativa x M. hybrida and M. sativa x M. marina from 2,000 to 3,000 crosses. The predominant chromosome number between diploid alfalfa and the other diploid perennial species was 2n=2x=16. Morphology of the hybrids was generally intermediate. Electrophoretic analysis of the F1 hybrids and parental clones on uniform or gradient polyacrylamide gels demonstrated that peroxidase phenotypes could be used to confirm hybridity. For all interspecific combinations there was at least one peroxidase isozyme unique to the wild species that was present in the F1 interspecific hybrid.

Interspecific hybridization of Medicago sativa L. and M. rupestris M. B. using ovule–embryo culture

An ovule–embryo culture method was used to produce the first interspecific hybrids between alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) and Medicago rupestris M. B. Culture of fertilized ovules from the cross diploid (2n = 2x = 16) M. sativa (jpjp) × diploid (2n = 2x = 16) M. rupestris began 14 days after pollination. After 5 days in culture, the interspecific hybrid embryo was removed and transferred to fresh medium, where development into a plant occurred. Forty-six M. sativa – M. rupestris F1 hybrids have been recovered using this technique. All but one of the 46 F1 hybrids were diploid (2n = 2x = 16); the only exception was tetraploid (2n = 4x = 32). The most frequent meiotic configurations observed in the F1 hybrid plants were eight bivalents or seven bivalents and two univalents, indicating significant homology between M. sativa and M. rupestris genomes. However, pollen stainability (0–12%) and pollen germination (0–6%) were extremely low. Similar to the production of the F1, no first backcross (BC1) plants were obtained from seed; however, the ovule–embryo culture method was found to be a very effective method for recovering BC1 plants and hundreds of BC1 plants have been produced. The BC1 plants from crossing the F1 with diploid M. sativa were predominantly diploid. Medicago rupestris can now be considered a potential germplasm source for alfalfa improvement. The ovule–embryo culture method represents the first successful recovery of Medicago interspecific hybrids via some form of embryo rescue. Importantly, it appears this technique can be applied to other interspecific hybrid combinations in the Medicago genus.Key words: Medicago, alfalfa, embryo culture, interspecific hybrid.

Uneven ploidy levels and a reproductive mutant required for interspecific hybridization of Medicago sativa L. × Medicago dzhawakhetica Bordz

Crossing diploid (2n = 2x = 16) Medicago sativa L. (homozygous for the gene, jp, that causes failure of the postmeiotic cytokinesis) and tetraploid (2n = 4x = 32) Medicago dzhawakhetica Bordz. resulted in efficient recovery of interspecific hybrids. Interspecific hybrids were produced in large numbers (1.15 – 5.60 hybrids per pollination), comparable to intraspecific same-ploidy level crosses within M. sativa. All 237 interspecific hybrids were triploid (2n = 3x = 24) or near triploid. Morphologically, the F1 hybrids were intermediate, although they tended to be more similar to the M. dzhawakhetica parent. Medicago dzhawakhetica was resistant to spring blackstem (caused by Phoma medicaginis Malb. and Roum.), whereas the M. sativa parents were susceptible. The F1 hybrids were also resistant to P. medicaginis. Chromosome pairing in the hybrids showed plant-to-plant variation; however, trivalent frequencies in some F1 hybrids were comparable to that observed in M. sativa triploids, indicating potential for recombination between M. sativa and M. dzhawakhetica genomes. Although the triploid hybrids were male sterile, and nearly female sterile, it was possible to produce backcross progeny. The first backcross was both male and female fertile.Key words: Medicago, hybridization, breeding, tetraploid, triploid, sterility.

Genetics, cytology, and crossing behavior of an alfalfa (Medicago sativa) mutant resulting in failure of the postmeiotic cytokinesis

During pollen investigations on diploid alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) several plants were identified which produced "jumbo" pollen. The cause of the jumbo pollen is failure of the postmeiotic cytokinesis. These plants produce a single, four-nucleate microspore from one microspore mother cell (MMC) rather than the normal four, single-nucleate microspores from one MMC. Subsequent gametophyte development is characterized by fusion of the four nuclei into a single nucleus in most cases (range of 80 to 100%), followed by a developmental sequence comparable to normal alfalfa. Mature 4n male gametophytes are thus formed from 2n sporophytes. Genetic control of the postmeiotic cytokinesis failure is by a single recessive gene, designated jp. Although a low frequency of jumbo pollen does germinate (range of 3.1 to 37.8%), crossing studies demonstrate jumbo pollen is incapable of effecting fertilization. The use of the jp mutant in breeding studies, and interspecific hybridization research, is discussed.

CHROMOSOME STABILITY IN MAIZE (ZEA MAYS) TISSUE CULTURES AND SECTORING IN SOME REGENERATED PLANTS

Cytogenetic stability of maize (Zea mays L.) tissue cultures was assessed by meiotic analysis of plants regenerated from 4- and 8-month-old tissue cultures and by mitotic analysis of cultured cells 4 and 8 months after culture initiation. Cultures initiated from four embryos each of W22 R-nj R-nj × A188 and A188 × W22 R-nj R-nj were examined. After four months in culture, only one of 65 regenerated plants was abnormal; after eight months, only four of 59 regenerated plants were abnormal. Three of the five abnormal plants had normal and cytogenetically abnormal sectors in the tassels. Inheritance studies were conducted on 51 regenerated plants. Eight plants segregated in the S1 for recessive mutations resulting in defective kernels, and one plant segregated for a recessive mutation resulting in a wilted phenotype. Eight different plants that produced normal S1 progeny segregated for defective kernel mutations in some S1 families, indicating a lack of concordance between male and female reproductive cells in the original regenerated plant. The cytogenetic stability observed in regenerated plants also was observed in vitro, indicating that selection at the time of regeneration did not occur. Four hundred and thirty-four (97%) of the 449 cells analyzed in 4-month-old cultures had the normal 20-chromosome complement; 377 (95%) of the 398 cells analyzed in 8-month-old cultures were normal. These results indicate that chromosome stability is maintained in tissue cultures of A188 × W22 R-nj R-nj maize.

THE INHERITANCE OF 2n POLLEN FORMATION IN DIPLOID ALFALFA MEDICAGO SATIVA

The inheritance of 2n pollen formation was studied in two diploid clones of alfalfa, Medicago sativa L. The two clones consistently produced a high frequency of 2n pollen, and they also porduced good seed set when used as males in 4x-2x crosses due to the functioning of 2n(2x) pollen. For the inheritance study the two clones were crossed with diploid clones of cultivated alfalfa at the diploid level (CADL), and with several clones of diploid M. falcata. In segregating families, plants that produced a high frequency of 2n pollen were identified by good seed set when used as males in 4x-2x crosses, and/or by bimodal pollen sizes. Plants that produced 4% or more 2n pollen generally produced greater than one seed per pollination in 4x-2x crosses, and these plants were considered 2n pollen producers. Analysis of self, F1, F2 and backcross (BC) families indicated 2n pollen formation was controlled by a single recessive gene, designated rp (restitution pollen). An allelism test indicated 2n pollen formation was controlled by the same recessive gene in both clones. Although there was considerable variation in the frequency of 2n pollen in rp/rp plants grown in different environments, all rp/rp plants consistently produced a significant frequency of 2n pollen (greater than 4%). Simple genetic control of 2n pollen formation has important implications in the evolution of the genus Medicago. In addition, 2n pollen formation controlled by a single gene may have potential application in the breeding of highly heterozygous tetraploids and in the efficient transfer of germplasm across ploidy levels.

CYTOGENETIC ANALYSIS OF PLANTS REGENERATED FROM OAT (AVENA SATIVA) TISSUE CULTURES; HIGH FREQUENCY OF PARTIAL CHROMOSOME LOSS

The frequency and types of chromosomal variability in regenerated Avena sativa L. plants were assessed by detailed meiotic analysis on 655 regenerated plants. Tissue cultures were initiated from immature embryos of the varieties Lodi and Tippecanoe and maintained by monthly subculturing. Plants were regenerated from 4-, 8-, 12-, 16- and 20- month-old cultures. Regenerated plants with cytogenetic alterations were common, although Lodi cultures produced a higher frequency of cytogenetically abnormal plants at each regeneration cycle than Tippecanoe cultures. After four months in culture, 49% of Lodi regenerated plants were cytogenetically abnormal, whereas only 12% of Tippecanoe regenerated plants were abnormal. The frequency of cytogenetically abnormal, regenerated plants increased with culture age. After 20 months in culture 88% of Lodi regenerated plants and 48% of Tippecanoe regenerated plants were cytogenetically abnormal. The most common cytogenetic alteration was chromosome breakage, followed by loss of a chromosome segment resulting in a heteromorphic pair at diakinesis. Of the regenerated plants classified as cytogenetically abnormal, 41% of Lodi plants and 66% of Tippecanoe plants had lost a portion of one or more chromosomes. Other alterations included trisomy, monosomy and interchanges. Chromosome instability associated with oat tissue cultures has several possible uses.