Cytogenetic effects of Tribulus terrestris L. on meristematic cells of Allium cepa L. and Vicia faba L.

Abstract

Tribulus terrestris is a plant of the Zygophyllaceae family frequently used worldwide to treat various diseases due to the therapeutic effects of its pharmacological components. This study examines the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of T. terrestris using two plant models, Allium cepa and Vicia faba. Extracts of 0.00625, 0.0125, 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1mg/mL were tested on meristematic cells of A. cepa and V. faba roots. This assessment includes the study of root growth, structure and coloration, as well as the determination of the mitotic index (MI) and chromosomal aberrations (CAs) as accurate indicators of toxicity. Our results showed a significant decrease in the mean length of roots treated with 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1 mg/ml for A. cepa and 0.1 mg/ml for V. faba. Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity results showed a significant decrease in MI from 0.025 mg/ml in A. cepa and from 0.05 mg/ml in V. faba, and this decrease in MI is linked to the increase in concentration and treatment time with T. terrestris. Furthermore, a significant increase in CAs was observed in A. cepa and V. faba from the 0.025 mg/ml concentration. The significant reduction in MI and CAs abundance suggests the genotoxicity of T. terrestris. Therefore, T. terrestris is a medicinal plant that should be used with caution, appropriately and based on essential therapeutic needs.