Effect of polymorphic forms of methyluracil on the development and lifespan of drosophila melanogaster.

The effects of 6-methyluracil α-and ß-forms (methyluracil and betamecil, respectively) on the development and lifespan of male and female drosophila were compared and their toxicity at various concentrations was examined. For the first time the dynamics of drosophila development was used for evaluation of biological properties of these compounds. Methyluracil is more toxic and more potent inhibitor of drosophila development than betamecil. Betamecil added to food throughout the life does not decrease its average lifespan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]