The relationship between the division plane and spindle geometry in Allium cells treated with CIPC and griseofulvin: an anti-tubulin study.

Isopropyl N-(3-chlorophenyl)-carbamate (CIPC), and griseofulvin, were used to perturb mitosis and the subsequent plane of division in meristematic cells of Allium cepa. The effects of these compounds on the microtubule organization throughout the cell cycle were investigated by immunofluorescence techniques. Microtubules were not disassembled by drug treatment, but the spindle organization was disrupted, resulting in tripolar spindles which gave rise to multiple nuclei. Ensuing cell plates, with associated phragmoplast microtubules, were branched. The effects of these drugs with respect to MTOC duplication and function in plant cells are discussed as is the relationship between the pre-prophase band (PPB) and the plane of cell division.