Evaluation of Genotoxicity and Cytotoxicity of Different Known Anti-Leishmanial Natural Products

Abstract

Toxins are harmful substances that can cause visible or invisible damage to organisms or illness if absorbed, inhaled, or taken through the skin [1]. Genotoxicity is the term used to describe the characteristics of chemical agents that damage a cell's genetic information, possibly resulting in mutations that cause cancer. Cytotoxicity is the quality of being toxic to cells. This research aimed to determine the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of plant extracts from Cannabis sativa, Digera muricata, and Saccharum spontaneum. It was hypothesized that the genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of these plant extracts increase with concentration. Extracts were prepared in ethanol and evaluated for toxicity. Human red blood cells (RBCs) were used to evaluate cytotoxicity, while the Allium cepa test was performed to assess genotoxicity. Cytotoxicity results showed varying levels of RBC toxicity: D. muricata at 1000 μg/mL (16.438%), C. sativa at 1000 μg/mL (34.017%), and S. spontaneum at 1000 μg/mL (16.169%), indicating higher toxicity at increased doses. Genotoxicity results indicated that D. muricata caused the highest mitotic phase arrest at higher concentrations, predominantly affecting prophase and metaphase stages. Chromosomal aberrations included breaks, bridges, sticky chromosomes, abnormal spindle fibers, and irregular chromosomal arrangements during metaphase. Among the plants tested, C. sativa was slightly more genotoxic compared to D. muricata and S. spontaneum. Root length inhibition assays supported the cytotoxicity results, with D. muricata being the most effective, followed by C. sativa and S. spontaneum. Overall, the extracts exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity and genotoxicity. Further in-vivo testing and isolation of toxic compounds are recommended.