Chromosomal Aberrations in Muntjac Cells Resulting From Exposure to Interferon

Abstract

Cells of the Indian deer (Muntiacus muntjac) are sensitive to the antiviral and antiproliferative action of human β-interferon (β-IFN). Because of their low diploid chromosome number and readily identifiable chromosomes, they provide a convenient model system in which to test for the ability of IFN treatment to result in chromosome abnormalities. Increases in the frequencies of chromosome gaps and breaks have been observed after 72 h of treatment with IFN at a concentration of 100 U/ml. At IFN concentrations of 10-100 U/ml, there is a higher proportion of aberrations in the X chromosome than would be expected in a random distribution. At 1,000-1,700 U/ml IFN, there is an increase in the proportion of cells with multiple abnormalities over that observed at 0-100 U/ml IFN, and the distribution of aberrations appears to be random.