Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of aqueous extracts of Aloysia gratissima (Gillies & Hook.) Tronc. using Allium cepa L. assay

Abstract

IntroductionAloysia gratissima presents a series of preclinical studies that show several activities related to its popular use. But as other species, undesirable effects can be triggered by its indiscriminate use. MethodologyThe objective of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of different types of A. gratissima extracts (hydroalcoholic – HE and aqueous – AE), chemically characterizing them in a broad way. Chemical characterization was performed by using HPLC-PDA-MS and facilitated using liquid-liquid fractionation, and the Allium cepa assay was used to assess the genotoxic potential of HE and AE. The number of dividing cells and mitotic index were evaluated, in addition to the number of micronuclei and nuclear abnormalities. ResultsFor both extracts (HE and AE) there was a decrease in the number of dividing cells and in the percentage of mitotic index with increasing concentrations, indicating cytotoxicity. There was also an increase in the number of nuclear abnormalities for the highest concentrations. Among the genotoxic effects of HE and AE, the following nuclear abnormalities can be mentioned: c-mitosis, stickiness, vagrant chromosomes, among others can be mentioned. However, analyzes show that HE has a greater genotoxic effect, which may be related to the higher concentration of metabolites found in this type of extraction, such as rutin, verbascoside and chlorogenic, ferulic and p-coumaric acids. ConclusionIt is verified that the extraction method influences the concentration of metabolites in A. gratissima and its genotoxic effects. It is therefore suggested to consume it in a controlled manner.