Evaluation of the Biochemical, Hematological and Genotoxic Parameters of Cebus Apella Treated with N-Methyl-Nitrosurea (NMU) Followed by Treatment with a Complex Homeopathic Compound (Canova)

Abstract

Canova is a homeopathic compound that presents antimutagenic and anticancer properties . N-methyl-nitrosourea is a carcinogenic agent that causes alterations on DNA. This study was conducted to evaluate the antimutagenic effects of Canova on Cebus apella non-human primates treated with N-methyl-nitrosourea. Six animals were randomly assigned in two groups, one composed by two animals, who received only N-methyl-nitrosourea (NMU group) and another one consisting on four animals treated with N-methyl-nitrosourea followed by Canova treatment (CA group). Body weight, biochemical and hematological analysis were performed. Micronuclei test and Comet assay were carried out to evaluate genotoxicity. N-methyl-nitrosourea treatment led to an overall reduction in the hematologic cell count and the administration of Canova limited the adverse effects in the hematologic system on CA group. Canova also reduced micronuclei frequency and the DNA damage index. It suggests that Canova may have a role as an immune response modulator by inducing leukocyte proliferation.