The effect of diamino diphenyl sulfone on the embryonic development of eggs from the sea urchin (Lytechinus variegatus).

Diamino diphenyl sulfone (DDS), a chemotherapeutic compound used in the treatment of leprosy, was studied with regard to its effects on the embryonic development of eggs from the sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus. DDS disturbs the normal development of fertilized eggs by interfering with the mitotic apparatus and producing spheroid-shaped bodies shown to be aster-like bodies by staining techniques. A typical colchicine effect (formation of kidney-shaped cells) was also demonstrated.