A method of preparation and application of nitrous acid as a mutagen inClaviceps purpurea

A simple and speedy procedure is described for the preparation and application of nitrous acid in mutagenic experiments. The conventional incubation mixture of sodium nitrite solution with acetate buffer is replaced by an aqueous solution of nitrous acid prepared by running a solution of sodium nitrite through a column of ion exchanger. The prooedure eliminates also the interference of other substances. Experimental appraisal of the technique was done during the mutagenio improval of the fungusClaviceps purpurea.