Antimutagenicity profiles for some model compounds

DNA interaction of selected tetrahydropyrimidine and its effects against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in vivo: Part II

Tetrahydropyrimidine (compound A = methyl 4-[4'-(heptyloxy)-3'-methoxyphenyl]-1,6-dimethyl-2-thioxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidine-5-carboxylate) was chosen for in vivo studies after exhibiting noteworthy in vitro activity against the K562 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, with IC50 values of 9.20 ± 0.14 µM and 12.76 ± 1.93 µM, respectively. According to experimental (fluorescence titration, viscosity, and differential scanning calorimetry) results, A interacts with DNA via the minor groove. In vivo, acute oral toxicity studies in Wistar albino rats proved no noticeable symptoms of either toxicity or death during the follow-up period. Genotoxic and antigenotoxic studies at three different concentrations of A (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg of body weight) in Wistar albino rats showed that the dose of 5 mg/kg body weight did not cause DNA damage and had a remarkable DNA protective activity against CCl4-induced DNA damage, with a percentage reduction of 78.7%. It is also important to note that, under the investigated concentrations of A, liver damage is not observed. Considering all experimental outcomes realized under various in vivo investigations (acute oral toxicity, genotoxicity, antigenotoxicity, and biochemical tests), compound A could be a promising candidate for further clinical testing.

Chemotherapeutic Mechanism of Action of the Synthetic Resorcinolic Methyl 3,5-dimethoxy-2-octanoylbenzoate

Resorcinolic lipids are described as potential examples of selective chemotherapeutic adjuvants that can enhance the effects of cyclophosphamide (CYC) while promoting cell death without causing DNA damage. Therefore, the current study attempted to describe how the resorcinolic lipid methyl 3,5-dimethoxy-2-octanoylbenzoate (AMS35BB) interacted with DNA (DNA docking) and how this compound affected genetic toxicology models and other biological characteristics when combined with CYC. We observed that AMS35BB, used alone (7.5 and 10 mg/kg), increases the frequency of genomic damage (comet assay) but not chromosomal damage (micronuclei assay), lowers phagocytosis, and promotes cell death in Swiss male mice. When used in association with CYC, AMS35BB can reduce the risk of genomic damage by up to 33.8% as well as chromosomal damage, splenic phagocytosis, cell death, and lymphocyte frequency. Molecular docking showed that AMS35BB had a higher affinity than the active metabolite of CYC for binding to the DNA double helix major groove. As a result, AMS35BB has the potential to be both an adjuvant when used in association with CYC and a therapeutic candidate for the development of a selective chemotherapeutic drug.

Biosynthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles synthesized using extracts of Agrimonia eupatoria L. and in vitro and in vivo studies of potential medicinal applications

This research explores the synthesis, characterization, and biological activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) derived from acetone (AgNPs-acetone) and aqueous (AgNPs-H2O) extracts of Agrimonia eupatoria. The nanoparticles exhibit isometric morphology and uniform size distribution, as elucidated through Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and high-resolution TEM (HRTEM) analyses. The utilization of Scanning Transmission Microscopy (STEM) with High-Angle Annular Dark-Field (HAADF) imaging and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) confirms the crystalline nature of AgNPs. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis reveals identical functional groups in the plant extracts and their corresponding AgNPs, suggesting the involvement of phytochemicals in the reduction of silver ions. Spectrophotometric monitoring of the synthesis process, influenced by various parameters, provides insights into the kinetics and optimal conditions for AgNP formation. The antioxidant activities of the plant extracts and synthesized AgNPs are evaluated through DPPH and ABTS methods, highlighting AgNPs-acetone as a potent antioxidant. Third-instar larvae exposed to the extracts have differential effects on DNA damage, with the acetone extract demonstrating antigenotoxic properties. Similarly, biosynthesized AgNPs-acetone displays antigenotoxic effects against EMS-induced DNA damage. The genotoxic effect of water extract and AgNPs-acetone was dose-dependent. Hemolytic potential is assessed on rat erythrocytes, revealing that low concentrations of AgNPs-acetone and AgNPs-H2O had a nontoxic effect on erythrocytes. Cytotoxicity assays demonstrate time-dependent and dose-dependent effects, with AgNPs-acetone exhibiting superior cytotoxicity. Proapoptotic activity is confirmed through apoptosis induction, emphasizing the potential therapeutic applications of AgNPs. The antimicrobial activity of AgNPs reveals concentration-dependent effects. AgNPs-H2O display better antibacterial activity, while antifungal activities are comparable between the two nanoparticle types.

Toxicological and chemoprevention studies of Brazilian brown propolis from Araucaria sp

Brazilian brown propolis (BBP) is a natural product derived predominantly from the south region of Brazil, where Araucaria forests are dominant. Despite its potential as a source of bioactive compounds with leishmanicidal, anti-inflammatory, nociceptive, and antimicrobial properties, BBP has not been comprehensively studied compared to green propolis. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the safety and chemopreventive potential of BBP. The cytotoxicity attributed to BBP was assessed using two different assays, while the Salmonella/microsome assay was employed to evaluate mutagenicity. The acute toxicity attributed to BBP was determined using a zebrafish model, while the chemopreventive potential was investigated utilizing Chinese hamster lung (V79) cell lines. Data demonstrated that BBP exerted cytotoxic effects at concentrations greater than or equal to 10 µg/ml and did not exhibit mutagenicity in Salmonella typhimurium strains TA98 and TA100. However, at the highest concentration tested (4000 µg/plate), BBP induced a significant increase in revertant colonies in S. typhimurium TA102 strain. The LC50 equivalent to 8.83 mg/L was obtained in the acute toxicity evaluation in zebrafish. BBP also showed antigenotoxic effect by significantly reducing chromosomal damage induced by the mutagen doxorubicin in V79 cell cultures at a concentration of 2.5 μg/ml. Compared to Brazilian green and red propolis, BBP exhibited greater toxicity. On the other hand, at lower concentrations, BBP displayed chemopreventive potential, which may be associated with the antioxidant capacity of the extract. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the biological properties and potential applications of BBP in treating various diseases.

Amelioration of cyclophosphamide-induced DNA damage, oxidative stress, and hepato- and neurotoxicity by Piper longum extract in rats: The role of γH2AX and 8-OHdG

Background: The identification of genoprotectants is a promising strategy for improving human health. Piper longum has drawn scientific attention because of its diverse biological effects and traditional utilization. The current investigation aims to evaluate the genome-stabilizing potential of Piper longum against cyclophosphamide-associated genotoxicity.

Methods: We adopted a funnel screening with a three-tier evaluation approach, where Piper longum was investigated in an acellular medium, peripheral blood lymphocytes, and a rodent model. The genoprotective action of the Piper longum extract was initially performed with plasmid pBluescript SK(-) DNA. Furthermore, the extract and various fractions were screened against cyclophosphamide-induced genotoxicity using a cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay and a chromosomal aberration assay in human peripheral blood lymphocytes. The genome-stabilizing action of the extract and potent (hexane) fraction was further confirmed in vivo in Wistar albino rats by evaluating them using mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus tests, DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress markers, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), γH2AX, and histopathological lesions in the liver and hippocampus. Additionally, acute and sub-acute toxicity studies were conducted following the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) guidelines for rats. Furthermore, the extract was quantified and characterized by high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC), ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–mass spectroscopy (UPLC-MS), and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS).

Results: The Piper longum ethanol extract was shown to protect plasmid pBluescript SK(-) DNA against H2O2-induced strand breaks. In human lymphocytes, the extract and hexane fraction showed a reduction in micronucleus formation (p < 0.001) and chromosomal aberrations (p < 0.01) against cyclophosphamide. Furthermore, the extract and fraction treatment, when administered at 200 mg/kg for 28 days in Wistar rats, restored cyclophosphamide-induced genomic instability by reducing micronucleus formation and DNA fragmentation; restoring redox homeostasis; decreasing 8-OHdG, a hallmark of oxidative DNA damage; reducing γH2AX, a DNA double-strand break (DSB) marker; and preserving the liver and hippocampus against histopathological lesions. The extract and fraction revealed no signs of systemic toxicity at the used doses. Piperine and piperlongumine are the major alkaloids quantified along with the presence of flavonoids in the ethanol extract and the presence of fatty acids and terpenoids in the hexane fraction of Piper longum.

Conclusion: Our investigation confirms the genoprotective action of Piper longum by reducing cyclophosphamide-associated cytogenotoxicity, oxidative stress, hepato- and neurotoxicity, oxidative DNA damage, and DNA double-strand breaks. The outcomes are critical for mitigating the genotoxic effects of chemotherapy recipients, requiring further attention.

Altered hallmarks of DNA double-strand breaks, oxidative DNA damage and cytogenotoxicity by piperlongumine in hippocampus and hepatocytes of rats intoxicated with cyclophosphamide

AIM

Cyclophosphamide is an effective anti-tumor agent, however, it induces genomic instability and tissue toxicity in clinical application. This study aims to evaluate the action of piperlongumine against cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity.

MAIN METHODS

The action was investigated in rodent model of genomic instability, where piperlongumine (50 mg/kg) was orally co-administered with cyclophosphamide (5 mg/kg) for 28 days to Wistar albino rats. Further, piperlongumine was also examined for acute and sub-acute toxicity.

KEY FINDINGS

Piperlongumine significantly reversed genotoxicity in high-proliferation tissue (bone marrow: p < 0.05) as well as in vital tissues (hippocampus: p < 0.01 and hepatocytes: p < 0.05), calculated as micronuclei formation and %DNA fragmentation. It also restored the redox homeostasis, counteracted the formation of oxidative DNA damage product and DNA double-strand break in vital tissues, indicated by reduction of 8-OHdG and γH2AX. TUNEL assay revealed that piperlongumine diminished the cyclophosphamide-associated apoptotic cell death in hippocampus as well as in liver tissue and conferred cytoprotection to the host. These findings were finally corroborated with the histopathological findings, where piperlongumine treatment restored the cellular viability of liver and hippocampus. Further, piperlongumine did not produce any toxic effects to rats in systemic toxicity studies.

SIGNIFICANCE

Piperlongumine possesses genome stabilizing effect and reduces cyclophosphamide-associated DNA damage, oxidative stress, hepato-, and neurotoxicity, diminishes the DNA damage response pathway in the rat model, at the same time, conserves the micro-architectural details of liver and hippocampus. The findings are significant in terms of reducing genotoxic impact of chemotherapy-receiving patients.

3-Heptylidene-4,6-Dimethoxy-3H-Isobenzofuran-1-One Is Genotoxic, Increases the Frequency of Cell Death, and Potentiates the Effects of Cyclophosphamide and Cisplatin

3-heptylidene-4,6-dimethoxy-3H-isobenzofuran-1-one (Phthalide 1) is the precursor of three resorcinol lipids that have been described as potential chemotherapeutic agents and capable of potentiating the effects of cyclophosphamide. In this study, we evaluated the genotoxic potential, cell-killing potential, and interactions with cyclophosphamide and cisplatin of phthalide 1. Twelve groups were created from 120 mice: Negative Control, cyclophosphamide (100 mg/kg), cisplatin (6 mg/kg), Phthalide 1 (5, 10 and 20 mg/kg), and associations of 1 with cyclophosphamide and 1 with cisplatin. The results demonstrate that 1 increases (p < 0.05) the frequency of chromosomal damage, liver and kidney cell death, and splenic phagocytosis. The association of 1 with cyclophosphamide and cisplatin demonstrated a chemopreventive effect and, therefore, a reduction (p < 0.05) in the frequency of chromosomal damage. However, cell death and splenic phagocytosis did not suffer significant variations. As a result of the above, 1 has potential chemotherapeutic application and may be a candidate for developing a new generation of chemotherapeutics. In addition, it has characteristics to be used as a chemotherapy adjuvant in association with cyclophosphamide and cisplatin since it increases the frequency of cell death induced by chemotherapy. We also reported that the chemopreventive effect of 1, in association with cyclophosphamide and cisplatin, can prevent adverse effects (induction of DNA damage in non-tumor cells) without interfering with the mode of action of chemotherapy drugs and, therefore, without reducing the induction of cell death.

ZIM, a Norbornene Derived from 4-Aminoantipyrine, Induces DNA Damage and Cell Death but in Association Reduces the Effect of Commercial Chemotherapeutics

Cancer incidence is increasing, and the drugs are not very selective. These drugs cause adverse effects, and the cells become resistant. Therefore, new drugs are needed. Here, we evaluated the effects of ZIM, a candidate for chemotherapy, and 4-AA alone and in association with commercial chemotherapeutic agents. Subsequently, the results of ZIM and 4-AA were compared. Male Swiss mice were treated with doses of 12, 24, or 48 mg/kg ZIM or 4-AA alone or in association with cisplatin (6 mg/kg), doxorubicin (16 mg/kg), and cyclophosphamide (100 mg/kg). Biometric parameters, DNA damage (comet and micronuclei), cell death, and splenic phagocytosis were evaluated. DNA docking was also performed to confirm the possible interactions of ZIM and 4-AA with DNA. 4-AA has been shown to have low genotoxic potential, increase the frequency of cell death, and activate phagocytosis. ZIM causes genomic and chromosomal damage in addition to causing cell death and activating phagocytosis. In association with chemotherapeutical agents, both 4-AA and ZIM have a chemopreventive effect and, therefore, reduce the frequency of DNA damage, cell death, and splenic phagocytosis. The association of 4-AA and ZIM with commercial chemotherapeutic agents increased the frequency of lymphocytes compared to chemotherapeutic agents alone. Molecular docking demonstrated that ZIM has more affinity for DNA than 4-AA and its precursors (1 and 2). This was confirmed by the lower interaction energy of the complex (-119.83 kcal/mol). ZIM can break the DNA molecule and, therefore, its chemotherapeutic effect can be related to DNA damage. It is considered that ZIM has chemotherapeutic potential. However, it should not be used in combination with cisplatin, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide as it reduces the effects of these drugs.

Chemical characterization of Brazilian savannah Byrsonima species (muricis) and their impact on genomic instability and chemopreventive effects

The identification of new drugs with few or no adverse effects is of great interest worldwide. In cancer therapy, natural products have been used as chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents. Plants from the Brazilian savannah belonging to the Byrsonima genus are popularly known as muricis and have attracted much attention due to their various pharmacological activities. However, there are currently no data on these plants concerning their use as chemopreventive or chemotherapeutic agents in human cell lines. The present study assessed the potential of B. correifolia, B. verbascifolia, B. crassifolia, and B. intermedia extracts as natural alternatives in the prevention and/or treatment of cancer. The chemical constituents present in each extract were analyzed by electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (ESI-MSN). The mutagenic/antimutagenic (micronucleus assay), genotoxic/antigenotoxic (comet assay), apoptotic/necrotic (acridine orange/ethidium bromide uptake), and oxidative/antioxidative (CM-H₂DCFDA) effects of the extracts and their influence on gene expression (RTqPCR) were investigated in nonmetabolizing gastric (MNP01) and metabolizing hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) epithelial cells to evaluate the effects of metabolism on the biological activities of the extracts. The genotoxicity, mutagenicity, and apoptotic effects observed in HepG2 cells with B. correifolia and B. verbascifolia extracts are probably associated with the presence of proanthocyanidins and amentoflavone. In MNP01 cells, none of the four extracts showed mutagenic effects. B. crassifolia and B. intermedia extracts exhibited strong antimutagenicity and enhanced detoxification in HepG2 cells and antioxidant capacities in both types of cells, possibly due to the presence of gallic and quinic acids, which possess chemopreventive properties. This study identifies for the first time B. correifolia and B. verbascifolia extracts as potential agents against hepatocarcinoma and B. crassifolia and B. intermedia extracts as putative chemopreventive agents.

Evaluation of Genotoxic Effect and Antigenotoxic Potential against DNA Damage of the Aqueous and Ethanolic Leaf Extracts of Annona muricata Using an In Vivo Erythrocyte Rodent Micronucleus Assay

Annona muricata have been extensively used in traditional medicine to treat multiple diseases, including cancers. This study evaluated the genotoxic potential and antigenotoxic activities of A. muricata aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts by employing an in vivo erythrocyte rodent micronucleus assay. Different doses (187.5, 375, and 750 mg/kg) of both extracts were administered orally for 5 days alone and combined with cyclophosphamide (CP, 60 mg/kg) to BALB/c mice. Also, it was administered orally to Wistar rats for 5 days through the final stage of gestation. No genotoxic or cytotoxic effects were observed in the two adult rodent models when A. muricata was administered orally nor in newborn rats transplacentally exposed to the extracts. Moreover, A. muricata aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts demonstrated a protective effect against CP-induced DNA damage. Due to its lack of genotoxic effect and its capacity to decrease DNA damage, A. muricata is likely to open an interest field regarding its potential safe use in clinical applications.

Chemical Composition of Various Nepeta cataria Plant Organs' Methanol Extracts Associated with In Vivo Hepatoprotective and Antigenotoxic Features as well as Molecular Modeling Investigations

This report summarizes the chemical composition analysis of Nepeta cataria L. flower, leaf, and stem methanol extracts (FME, LME, SME, respectively) as well as their hepatoprotective and antigenotoxic features in vivo and in silico. Herein, Wistar rat liver intoxication with CCl4 resulted in the generation of trichloromethyl and trichloromethylperoxy radicals, causing lipid peroxidation within the hepatocyte membranes (viz. hepatotoxicity), as well as the subsequent formation of aberrant rDNA adducts and consequent double-strand break (namely genotoxicity). Examined FME, LME, and SME administered orally to Wistar rats before the injection of CCl4 exerted the most notable pharmacological properties in the concentrations of 200, 100, and 50 mg/kg of body weight, respectively. Thus, the extracts' hepatoprotective features were determined by monitoring the catalytic activities of enzymes and the concentrations of reactive oxidative species, modulating the liver redox status. Furthermore, the necrosis of hepatocytes was assessed by means of catalytic activities of liver toxicity markers. The extracts' antigenotoxic features were quantified using the comet assay. Distinct pharmacological property features may be attributed to quercitrin (8406.31 μg/g), chlorogenic acid (1647.32 μg/g), and quinic acid (536.11 μg/g), found within the FME, rosmarinic acid (1056.14 μg/g), and chlorogenic acid (648.52 μg/g), occurring within the LME, and chlorogenic acid (1408.43 μg/g), the most abundant in SME. Hence, the plant's secondary metabolites were individually administered similar to extracts, upon which their pharmacology in vivo was elucidated in silico by means of the structure-based studies within rat catalase, as a redox marker, and rat topoisomerase IIα, an enzyme catalyzing the rat DNA double-strand break. Conclusively, the examined N. cataria extracts in specified concentrations could be used in clinical therapy for the prevention of toxin-induced liver diseases.

Protective effect of kavain in meristematic cells of Allium cepa L

Kavain is one of the main kavalactones of Piper methysticum (Piperaceae) with anxiolytic, analgesic, and antioxidant activities. Therefore, the aim of the study was to evaluate the cytotoxic, mutagenic, and antimutagenic potential of kavain in Allium cepa cells. Roots of A. cepa were transferred to the negative (2% acetone) and positive (10 µg/mL of Methylmethanesulfonate, MMS) controls and to the concentrations of kavain (32, 64 and 128 µg/mL) for 48 h. A total of 5,000 meristematic cells were analyzed under an optical microscope to determine the mitotic index, mean number of chromosomal alterations and percentage of damage reduction. Data were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis test (p <0.05). All concentrations of kavain were not cytotoxic and did not show significant chromosomal changes when compared to 2% acetone. Kavain showed a cytoprotective effect in the pre (128 μg/mL) and in the post-treatment (32 and 64 μg/mL) and reduced damage against the mutagenic action of MMS in all concentrations of the pre and simultaneous and at the highest of post (128 μg/mL). Kavain promoted a significant reduction in micronuclei, nuclear buds and chromosomal losses in relation to MMS. The observed data indicate the importance of kavain for the inhibition of damage and chemoprevention.

In vivo assessment of antioxidant, antigenotoxic, and antimutagenic effects of bark ethanolic extract from Spondias purpurea L

Medicinal plants have always been used for therapeutic purposes; however, some plants may contain toxic and mutagenic substances. The aim of this study was to assess the cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, antioxidant, antigenotoxic, and antimutagenic effects of the bark ethanolic extract of Spondias purpurea L. using male and female Swiss albino mice. To determine the protective effects of the extract, benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) and cyclophosphamide (CP) were selected as cell damage inducers. The extract was examined at doses of 500, 1000, or 1500 mg/kg body weight (BW)via gavage alone or concomitant with B[a]P or CP. Oxidative stress was measured by quantification of blood catalase activity (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in total blood, liver, and kidney, and concentrations of malondiadehyde (MDA) in liver and kidney. Genotoxicity and antigenotoxicity were evaluated by the comet assay using peripheral blood. Cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, and antimutagenicity were determined utilizing the micronucleus test in bone marrow and peripheral blood. The S. purpurea L extract increased CAT activity and GSH levels accompanied by a decrease in MDA levels after treatment with B[a]P and CP. No genotoxic, cytotoxic, or mutagenic effects were found in mice exposed only to the extract. These results indicate that the extract of S. purpurea exhibited protective effects against oxidative and DNA damage induced by B[a]P and CP.

In vivo mutagenic effects and oxidative stress parameters evaluation of cypermethrin and benzoate of emamectin and their mixtures in female mice

We evaluated the biological effects of ingestion by gavage, for 28 days, of the pesticides cypermethrin (CP) and emamectin benzoate (EB) and their mixtures in female Swiss mice. The groups were Control (water); CP; EB and three distinct concentrations of CP and EB mixture expressed in mg/kg/day. The biological effects were analyzed in the complete blood count and plasma (alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and creatinine); the biochemical parameters of oxidative stress (substances reactive to thiobarbituric acid (TBARS); reduced glutathione (GSH); catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST)), and bone marrow cells obtained from the femur for the micronucleus (MN) test. In the heart, there was a reduction in GSH in the groups (0.5 + 0.67 and 2.5 + 3.37), although in the brain this effect appeared for the other groups, except EB. Brain TBARS increased in CP and in the group (2.5 + 3.37) and platelets increased in the group (12.5 + 16.87). Genotoxic/mutagenic effects, showing a consistent increase dose-dependent effect on micronucleus counting for in the female mice. After 28 days of treatment, we can observe that the pesticide mixtures promoted genotoxic damage and oxidative brain damage in female mice, which can damage the health of these animals and possibly their future offspring.

Cytogenotoxicity and protective effect of piperine and capsaicin on meristematic cells of Allium cepa L

Piperine and capsaicin are important molecules with biological and pharmacological activities. This study aimed to evaluate the cytogenotoxic and protective effect of piperine and capsaicin on Allium cepa cells. A. cepa roots were exposed to negative (2% Dimethylsulfoxide) and positive (Methylmethanesulfonate, MMS, 10 µg/mL) controls, and four concentrations (25-200 µM) of piperine or capsaicin (alone) or associated before, simultaneously or after with the MMS. Only the lowest concentration of piperine (25 µM) showed a protective effect because it was not genotoxic. Piperine and capsaicin were cytotoxic (50, 100 and 200 µM). Piperine (50 to 200 µM) caused a significant increase in the total average of chromosomal alterations of in A. cepa cells. For capsaicin, the genotoxic effect was dose-dependent with a significant increase for all concentrations, highlighting the significant presence of micronuclei and nuclear buds for the two isolates. In general, bioactive compounds reduced the total average of chromosomal alterations against damage caused by MMS, mainly micronuclei and/or nuclear buds. Therefore, the two molecules were cytotoxic and genotoxic at the highest concentrations, and did not have cytoprotective action, and the lowest concentration of piperine demonstrated important chemopreventive activity.

Phytochemical prospecting, isolation, and protective effect of the ethanolic extract of the leaves of Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill

Jatropha mollissima is used in folk medicine as antimicrobial, antiparasitic, and larvicidal. However, few toxicogenetic studies have been carried out. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the phytochemical profile of ethanolic leaf extract of J. mollissima (EEJM) as well as potential cytotoxic, mutagenic, and antimutagenic properties. The EEJM was subjected to successive fractionation for the isolation of secondary metabolites, and five concentrations (0.01; 0.1; 1; 10 and 100 mg/ml) of extract were investigated using Allium cepa assay and the Somatic Mutation and Recombination (SMART) test. The mitotic index and % damage reduction were analyzed for A. cepa and the frequency of mutant hair for SMART. The presence of coumarins, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins was detected, while spinasterol and n-triacontane were the isolates identified for the first time for this species. EEJM did not exhibit cytotoxicity and was not mutagenic at 1 or 10 mg/ml using A. cepa and all concentrations of EEJM were not mutagenic in the SMART test. A cytoprotective effect was found at all concentrations. At 1 or 10 mg/ml EEJM exhibited antimutagenicity in A. cepa. In SMART, the protective effect was observed at 0.1 to 100 mg/ml EEJM. Our results demonstrate the important chemopreventive activity of EEJM, a desired quality in the search for natural anticarcinogenic compounds.

The Use of Natural Fiber-Rich Food Product Is Safe and Reduces Aberrant Crypt Foci in a Pre-Clinical Model

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cancer is a highly prevalent disease, requiring effective strategies for prevention and treatment. The present research aimed to formulate a natural fiber-rich food product (NFRFP) and to evaluate its safety, toxicogenetics, and effects on aberrant crypt foci induced by 1,2-dimethyl-hydrazine in a preclinical model.

METHODS

A total of 78 male Wistar rats were distributed in six experimental groups: negative control, positive control (1,2-Dimethylhydrazine-40 mg/Kg), and four groups fed with 10% NFRFP: NFRFP, pre-treatment protocol, simultaneous treatment, and post-treatment protocol.

RESULTS

The NFRFP was shown to be a good source of fibers and did not change biometric, biochemical, hematological, and inflammatory parameters, and did not induce signs of toxicity and genotoxicity/carcinogenicity. NFRFP exhibited a chemopreventive effect, in all protocols, with damage reduction (% DR) of 75% in the comet test. NFRFP reduced the incidence of aberrant crypt outbreaks by 49.36% in the post-treatment protocol.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest the applicability of NFRFP in the human diet due to potential production at an industrial scale and easy technological application in different products, since it could be incorporated in food without altering or causing small changes in final product sensory characteristics.

The genotoxic effects of perchloroethylene in human peripheral blood lymphocytes and the possible ameliorative role of α-tocopherol

Perchloroethylene (PCE), also known as tetrachloroethylene, is a commercially important chlorinated solvent commonly used in dry cleaning, textile processing, and metal degreasing industries. According to the available studies, the potential genotoxic impacts of this chlorinated solvent on human beings are still controversial. The present work was carried out to determine the genotoxic effects of PCE on human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) using chromosome aberrations (CAs) and cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) tests. Additionally, the antigenotoxic potential of α-tocopherol (α-Toc), a well-known antioxidant agent, on human lymphocytes treated with PCE in vitro was assessed. The cells were exposed for 48 h to PCE (25, 50, 100, and 150 μg/mL) alone as well as in combination with α-Toc (100 μg/mL). The findings of the study suggested that, relative to solvent control, PCE significantly increased the structural CA and MN formation for all concentrations. However, simultaneous treatment of PCE and α-Toc caused a significant reduction of CAs and MNi as compared to cultures treated with PCE alone. Besides, the results showed that PCE has cytotoxic effects on human PBLs as indicated by the significant decrease in mitotic index (MI) and nuclear division index (NDI). Nevertheless, the co-treatment of α-Toc with PCE did not reduce the cytotoxicity of PCE at a significant level. In conclusion, it can be suggested that PCE is genotoxic and cytotoxic in human PBLs, and α-Toc has an antigenotoxic effect on PCE-induced genotoxicity but has no significant effect on the cytotoxicity triggered by PCE.

Antigenotoxic potential of the fermentation broth produced by Paenibacillus polymyxa RNC-D in vitro

Aim: Evaluate the chemopreventive potential of the extract from P. polymyxa RNC-D. Methods: Concentrations of P. polymyxa RNC-D extract were tested in HepG2/C3A cells to assess their genotoxic (comet assay), mutagenic (micronucleus test) and antigenotoxic potential (comet assay) in vitro. Results: 400 and 40 μg/ml concentrations induced DNA lesions, whereas the 4 μg/ml induced a desmutagenic effect. Complementary tests indicated that the extract minimized the formation of reactive oxygen species induced by methyl methanesulfonate and normalized the loss of membrane potential. The quantification of cytokines indicated that TNF-α was immunostimulated by the extract. However, when administered in conjunction with the methyl methanesulfonate, the extract blocked the TNF-α release. Conclusion: The fermentation broth from P. polymyxa RNC-D showed an antigenotoxic effect, and thus the potential to be used as chemopreventive compound.

Influence of Asiatic acid on cell proliferation and DNA damage in vitro and in vivo systems

Asiatic acid (AA) is a triterpene with promising pharmacological activity. In the present study, in vitro and in vivo assays were conducted to understand the effect of AA on cell proliferation and genomic instability. AA was cytotoxic to human tumor cell lines (M059J, HeLa, and MCF-7), with IC₅₀ values ranging from 13.91 to 111.72 µM. In the case of M059J, AA exhibited selective cytotoxicity after 48 h of treatment (IC₅₀  = 24 µM), decreasing the percentage of cells in the G0/G1 phase, increasing the percentage of cells in the S phase, and inducing apoptosis. A significant increase in chromosomal damage was observed in V79 cell cultures treated with AA (40 µM), revealing genotoxic activity. In contrast, low concentrations (5, 10, and 20 µM) of AA significantly reduced the frequencies of micronuclei induced by the mutagens doxorubicin (DXR), methyl methanesulfonate, and hydrogen peroxide. A reduction of DXR-induced intracellular free radicals was found in V79 cells treated with AA (10 µM). The antigenotoxic effect of AA (30 mg/kg) was also observed against DXR-induced chromosomal damage in Swiss mice. Significant reductions in p53 levels were verified in the liver tissue of these animals. Taken together, the data indicate that AA exerted antiproliferative activity in M059J tumor cells, which is probably related to the induction of DNA damage, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Additionally, low concentrations of AA exhibited antigenotoxic effects and its antioxidant activity may be responsible, at least in part, for chemoprevention.

Hypericin, a medicinal compound from St. John's Wort, inhibits genotoxicity induced by mutagenic agents in V79 cells

This study evaluated the cytotoxic, genotoxic, and the modulatory effects on DNA damage of hypericin in Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts (V79 cells). The hypericin is a natural polycyclic quinone, mainly extracted from St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum L.). Along with hyperforin, the hypericins are responsible for the antidepressant activity of St. John's Wort. Cytotoxicity was assessed by the XTT colorimetric assay and the nuclear division index (NDI). The genotoxic activity was studied by the micronucleus test at concentrations of 30, 60, 120, and 240 μg/mL. Mutagenic agents, methyl methanesulfonate (MMS, 44 μg/mL), doxorubicin (DXR, 0.5 μg/mL), and etoposide (VP16, 1 μg/mL) were used in combination with different concentrations of hypericin in order to evaluate the modulatory effect on DNA damage. Results showed that the hypericin was cytotoxic at concentrations above 156.2 μg/mL and genotoxic above 120 μg/mL. The hypericin significantly reduced DNA damage frequency induced by DXR, at concentrations of 30 and 60 μg/mL, and MMS at a concentration of 30 μg/mL, but was unable to reduce damage when combined with VP-16. These results demonstrate the non-photoactivated hypericin toxicological safety limits, its protective effect on DNA damage and provide a basis for future studies that may characterize better its chemopreventive mechanism.

Antioxidant potential of Carica papaya Linn (Caricaceae) leaf extract in mice with cyclophosphamide induced oxidative stress

AIMS: This study aimed to investigate the effects of crude extract of Carica papaya leaves on oxidative stress in mice induced by cyclophosphamide, as well as phytochemical profile characterization of this extract.METHODS: The male Swiss mice received 15 days of treatment with the extract (500 mg kg-1, via gavage) and intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (75 mg kg-1) or saline (0.9%) on the 15th day. After 24 h the last treatment, the animals were anesthetized for blood withdrawal, sacrificed and removal of the organs for analyses (liver, kidney and heart). In the biochemical tests were determined: hematological parameters in blood, aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, glucose and total cholesterol dosages in plasma, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants and lipid damage marker were evaluated in different tissues, besides genotoxic and histopathological analyzes.RESULTS: In the extract of Carica papaya leaves, the flavonoids quercetin-3β-D-glucoside and rutin were identified, besides present positive results for alkaloids, saponins and tannins. This extract increased the activity of glutathione-S-transferase and catalase enzymes in the liver and reduced the levels of reduced glutathione in the kidneys and hematocrit levels, red cell count, and hemoglobin. It promoted the decrease of the reactive species of thiobarbituric acid (TBARS) in the kidneys and the activity of enzyme aspartate aminotransferase in the plasma and was antimutagenic in the micronucleus test.CONCLUSIONS: The study showed that extract of Carica papaya was beneficial against oxidative events and prevented DNA damage. The extract also showed hepatotoxicity, therefore prolonged infusion of papaya leaves is not advisable.

Genotoxicity assessment of saline extract from Pilosocereus gounellei (Cactaceae) and its chemopreventive effect against cyclophosphamide-induced DNA damage

Pilosocereus gounellei (Cactaceae) is used to treat wounds and inflammation. In this study, we evaluated whether the saline extract from its stem would have genotoxic or anti-genotoxic effects. In the genotoxicity evaluation, mice received the extract (500, 1,000, or 2,000 mg/kg) orally while negative and positive controls were treated with saline solution (0.9% NaCl) per os and cyclophosphamide (CPA, 80 mg/kg i.p.), respectively. In the anti-genotoxicity assay, using other animals, treatments were carried out by administering the extract (500, 1,000 or 2,000 mg/kg) or saline solution (negative control) per os and then CPA (80 mg/kg i.p.) 1 h later. Genotoxic effects were evaluated by micronucleus test and comet assay using peripheral blood and bone marrow cells. Oral administration of only the extract at 500 and 1,000 mg/kg did not result in genotoxicity. A slight increase in the incidence of micronucleus was observed at the highest dose (2,000 mg/kg). Administration of the extract before CPA reduced the micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCE) number by 49.07–71.43%, and DNA fragmentation in peripheral blood (85.04–94.44%) and bone marrow (87.43–92.70%) cells also decreased. In conclusion, when administered orally at the tested doses, the extract is genotoxically safe, being cautious in doses above 1,000 mg/kg, and has a protective effect against CPA-induced DNA damage.

Protective Effect of Chrysin, a Dietary Flavone against Genotoxic and Oxidative Damage Induced by Mitomycin C in Balb/C Mice

Anticancer drugs, such as Mitomycin C (MMC), can interact with biological molecules and cause genetic damage in normal cells. In this respect, we investigated the potential of chrysin, a flavone known as a potent scavenger of free radicals generated by anticancer agents, to protect mice against MMC-induced genotoxicity. The amount of DNA damage in the liver, kidney and bone marrow cells, in Balb/C mice treated with MMC (6 mg/kg, i.p) and the frequency of chromosomal aberrations indicated the genotoxic effect of MMC. Besides, a significant increase in the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx, GST) and lipid peroxidation is revealed. On the other hand, we noticed a regression of the genotoxic effect when studying the same parameters in Balb/C mice treated with chrysin (40 mg/kg b. wt., i.p) 24 h prior to MMC (6 mg/kg, i.p) injection. This study concluded that the protective effect of chrysin against genotoxicity of MMC results partly from its antioxidant effect.

First phytochemical study and biological activity of the leaves ethanolic extract from Cissus spinosa Cambess

AIMS: The objective of this study was to identify the phytochemical profile and to evaluate the biological effects of the crude ethanolic extract (EE) and the ethanolic fraction (EF) of leaves of the species Cissus spinosa Cambess, after oxidative stress induced by cyclophosphamide (CP) in mice.METHODS: Phytochemical profile was performed detecting functional groups and, analysis of total flavonoids and phenols concentration, as well as the antiradical activity in EE and EF. The phytochemical characterization was done for the identification of flavonoids present in the leaves of the plant. In the biochemical tests, hematological parameters, glucose and total cholesterol dosages in plasma, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants and lipid damage marker were evaluated in different tissues (liver, kidney and heart), besides genotoxic and immunological analyzes. The animals received 15 days of treatment, via gavage, with EE (50 mg kg-1) or EF (50 mg kg-1) and on the 15th day, an intraperitoneal injection of CP (100 mg kg-1) or saline (0.9%). After 24 h the last treatment, the animals were anesthetized for blood withdrawal, sacrificed and removal of the organs.RESULTS: In the phytochemical analyzes, the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids and phenols was identified, the latter presented a higher concentration for EF. Eight flavonoids were identified - Rutin, Quercetin-3-β-D-glucoside, Quercitrin, Taxifolin, Quercetin, Canferol, Luteolin and Apigenin. In the biochemical analyzes, in general, EE showed a better antioxidant action against oxidative damages, hypoglycemic and antitilipemic action when comparing with EF, probably due to the synergism caused by flavonoids. It was observed the reduction and an increase of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes, due to the action of antioxidant compounds and alkaloids present in the plant, also considering the question of the seasonal period that directly interferes in the production of these compounds. In the immunological analysis, the extracts did not stimulate the spontaneous production of oxygen peroxide (H2O2) and nitric oxide (NO•). CONCLUSIONS: Other studies, such as the variation of the chemical composition of the plant by local seasonality, hypoglycemic and antilipemic action, should be carried out to better delineate the biological action present in this plant.

Protective effects of bark ethanolic extract from Spondias dulcis Forst F. against DNA damage induced by benzo[a]pyrene and cyclophosphamide

This study evaluated the genotoxicity, mutagenicity, antigenotoxicity, and antimutagenicity effects on biochemical parameters of oxidative stress of the Spondias dulcis bark ethanolic extract on mice. The extract was evaluated in the doses of 500, 1000, and 1500 mg/kg bw via gavage. To evaluate the protective effects of the extract, benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) and cyclophosphamide (CP) were chosen as DNA damage inducers. Genotoxicity and antigenotoxicity were evaluated by the comet assay. Cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, and antimutagenicity were evaluated by the micronucleus test in bone marrow and peripheral blood. The biochemical parameters of oxidative stress were evaluated by the quantification of catalase activity (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in total blood, liver and kidney, and malondialdehyde (MDA), in liver and kidney. No genotoxic, cytotoxic, or mutagenic effect was found on mice exposed to the extract. The extract depleted the number of damaged nucleoids in total blood and the number of micronucleus (MN) in both cell types. The extract was able to increase CAT activity and GSH levels and decrease MDA levels after treatment with B[a]P and CP. The results indicate that the S. dulcis extract has potential to be used as preventive compound against DNA damage caused by CP and B[a]P.

Hepatoprotective and antineoplastic potencial of red propolis produced by the bees Apis mellifera in the semiarid of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of the honey bee Apis mellifera ethanolic extract of the red propolis, obtained in four municipalities of the Rio Grande do Norte semi-arid region, through an in vitro evaluation of the antineoplastic potential in human hepatic carcinoma (HepG2) and normal cell lines (L929), and from the comet assay in hepatic cell lines (ZF-L hepatocytes) to evaluate the genoprotective potential of the extract. The hepatoprotective effect was also evaluated in vivo by the induction of chronic experimental hepatic lesions in rodents (Rattus norvegicus Berkenhout, 1769), Wistar line, by intraperitoneal administration of thioacetamide (TAA) at the dose of 0.2g/kg. The animals were distributed in the following experimental groups: G1 (control), G2 (treated with 500mg/kg ethanolic extract of propolis), G3 (treated with 500mg/kg of ethanolic extract and TAA) and G4 (treated with TAA). All rats were submitted to serum biochemical, macroscopic, histological and stereological biochemical exams of the liver. It was verified the genoprotective effect of red propolis since the mean damages promoted to DNA in cells tested with the extract were significantly lower than the mean of the positive control damage (hydrogen peroxide). The red propolis extract did not present cytotoxic activity to the tumor cells of human liver cancer, as well as to normal ones. The absence of cytotoxicity in normal cells may indicate safety in the use of the propolis extract. The results of the serum biochemical evaluation showed that the serum levels of the aminotransferase enzymes (AST) did not differ significantly between G1, G2 and G3 when compared to each other. G4 showed significant increase in levels compared to the other groups, indicating that the administration of the extract did not cause liver toxicity, as well as exerted hepatoprotective effect against the hepatic damage induced by TAA. The G3 and G4 animals developed cirrhosis, but in G3 the livers were characterized by the presence of small regenerative nodules and level with the surface of the organ, whereas in G4 the livers showed large regenerative nodules. The livers of the G1 and G2 animals presented normal histological appearance, whereas the livers of the G3 animals showed regenerative nodules surrounded by thin septa of connective tissue, and in G4 the regenerative nodules were surrounded by thick septa fibrous connective tissue. The analysis of the hepatic tissues by means of stereology showed that there was no statistical difference between the percentage of hepatocytes, sinusoids, and collagens in G1 and G2. In G3 the percentage of hepatocytes, sinusoids, and collagen did not differ significantly from the other groups. It was concluded that the ethanolic extract of the red propolis exerted a hepatoprotective effect, because it promoted in vitro reduction of the damage to the DNA of liver cells, antineoplastic activity in human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (HepG2) and did not exert cytotoxic effect in normal cells or was able to reduce liver enzyme activity and the severity of cirrhosis induced by TAA in vivo.

Assessment of the toxicogenic effects and cell death potential of the ester (Z)-methyl 4-((1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl)amino)-4-oxobut-2-anoate in combination with cisplatin, cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin

Despite rapid advances in both the early detection and treatment of cancer, the mortality from this disease remains high, which justifies the development of new products that are more selective and effective and have fewer side effects. Accordingly, a novel ester was synthesized that contains two pharmacophores with important biological activities: (I) 4-aminoantipyrine, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and (II) the pharmacophore 1,4-dioxo-butenyl, which has cytotoxic activity. When administered alone, this compound is non-genotoxic, and it does not cause an increasing in splenic phagocytosis. Nevertheless, it can induce cell death. When administered in combination with commercial chemotherapeutic agents, such as doxorubicin, cisplatin, and cyclophosphamide, the ester shows antigenotoxic activity and decreases phagocytosis and reduces the potential to cause cell death. These results indicate that the compound should not be used in combination with chemotherapeutic agents that exert their effect through DNA damage, an important feature of antitumor drugs.

Anti-genotoxic and anti-mutagenic activity of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 as assessed by in vitro tests

Anti-genotoxic or anti-mutagenic activity has been described for a number of Gram-positive probiotic bacterial species. Here we present evidence that Gram-negative Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) also displays anti-genotoxic/anti-mutagenic activity, as assessed in vitro by the Comet Assay and the Ames Test, respectively. This activity was demonstrated by use of the mutagens 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (NQO), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and benzo(a) pyrene (B[a]P). For both assays and all three test agents the anti-genotoxic/anti-mutagenic activity of EcN was shown to be concentration dependent. By the use of extracts of bacteria that were inactivated by various procedures (heat treatment, ultrasound sonication or ultraviolet light irradiation), mechanistic explanations could be put forward. The proposed mechanisms were enforced by treating the bacterial material with proteinase K prior to testing. The mutagen H₂O₂ is most likely inactivated by enzymic activity, with catalase a likely candidate, while several explanations can be put forward for inactivation of B[a]P. NQO is most likely inactivated by metabolising enzymes, since the formation of the metabolite 4-aminoquinoline could be demonstrated. In conclusion, the in vitro results presented here make a strong case for antimutagenic properties of EcN.

Ascorbic acid reduces the genetic damage caused by miltefosine (hexadecylphosphocholine) in animals infected by Leishmania (Leishamnia) infantum without decreasing its antileishmanial activity

Leishamaniasis is a neglected disease caused by over 20 Leishmania species, occurring in more than a hundred countries. Miltefosine (hexadecylphosphocholine) is the single oral drug used in treatment for leshmaniases, including cases of infections resistant to pentavalent antimony. Our group has recently demonstrated the ability of miltefosine to cause genomic lesions by DNA oxidation. Acknowledging that antioxidant compounds can potentially modulate Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), our study verified whether ascorbic acid reduces the genotoxic and mutagenic effects caused by miltefosine, and whether it interferes with drug efficacy. For this purpose, uninfected Swiss mice received simultaneous (single dose treatment) miltefosine and ascorbic acid (gavage and intraperitoneally), besides pre and post treatments (ascorbic acid 24 h before and after drug administration); furthermore, Balb/c mice infected with Leishmania infantum received miltefosine plus ascorbic acid (repeated doses treatment). We conducted comet assays, micronucleus tests, dosages of superoxide dismutase enzyme and parasitic burden by the limiting dilution assay. We observed that ascorbic acid administered intraperitoneally displayed a protective effect over damage caused by miltefosine. However, this effect was not not observed when the same doses were administered via gavage, possibly due to low serum levels of this antioxidant. Ascorbic acid's protective effect reinforces that miltefosine damages DNA by oxidizing its nitrogenous bases, which is reduced by ascorbic acid due to its ability of protecting genetic material from the action of ROS. Therefore, our results show that this drug is efficient in reducing parasitic burden of L. infantum.

Cytotoxicity and antigenotoxicity evaluation of acetylshikonin and shikonin

Shikonin (SH) is used as a red pigment for food coloring and cosmetics, and has cytotoxic activity towards cancer cells. However, due to strong toxicity SH has limited potential as an anticancer drug. Acetylshikonin (ASH) is one of the SH derivatives with promising anticancer potential. In present study, we attempted to evaluate and compare the cytotoxicity of SH and ASH towards a normal cell line (V79) and in addition to evaluate their antigenotoxic activity. The evaluation was made with the use of the set of cytotoxicity assays with V79 line and the micronucleus test in vitro performed using clinafloxacin (CLFX), ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) as direct genotoxins and cyclophosphamide (CPA) as indirect genotoxin. For CPA and EMS the simultaneous protocol was used and for CLFX three different variants were performed: pretreatment, simultaneous, and post-treatment. A higher cytotoxic effect was observed for SH. The EC50 values obtained for SH were approximately twofold lower compared to that of ASH. Moreover, ASH exhibited an antigenotoxic potential against CPA-induced genotoxicity, whereas SH has no activity. However, ASH increased the EMS-induced genotoxicity, when SH exhibited no effect. Both compounds decreased the genotoxicity of CLFX in pretreatment and simultaneous protocol. Based on the results of the present study it can be concluded that ASH is less cytotoxic than SH to normal cells and has comparable antigenotoxic potential.

Protective Effects of Silymarin and Silibinin against DNA Damage in Human Blood Cells

Silymarin (SM), a standardized extract derived from Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn, is primarily composed of flavonolignans, with silibinin (SB) as its major active constituent. The present study aimed to evaluate the antigenotoxic activities of SM and SB using the alkaline comet assay in whole blood cells and to assess their effects on the expression of genes associated with carcinogenesis and chemopreventive processes. Different concentrations of SM or SB (1.0, 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 mg/ml) were used in combination with the DNA damage-inducing agent methyl methanesulfonate (MMS, 800 μM) to evaluate their genoprotective potential. To investigate the role of SM and SB in modulating gene expression, we performed quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis of five genes that are known to be involved in DNA damage, carcinogenesis, and/or chemopreventive mechanisms. Treatment with SM or SB was found to significantly reduce the genotoxicity of MMS, upregulate the expression of PTEN and BCL2, and downregulate the expression of BAX and ABL1. We observed no significant changes in ETV6 expression levels following treatment with SM or SB. In conclusion, both SM and SB exerted antigenotoxic activities and modulated the expression of genes related to cell protection against DNA damage.

Genistein and Ascorbic Acid Reduce Oxidative Stress-Derived DNA Damage Induced by the Antileishmanial Meglumine Antimoniate

Meglumine antimoniate (Glucantime) is a pentavalent antimonial used to treat leishmaniasis, despite its acknowledged toxic effects, such as its ability to cause oxidative damage to lipids and proteins. Recently, our group demonstrated that meglumine antimoniate causes oxidative stress-derived DNA damage. Knowing that antioxidants modulate reactive oxygen species, we evaluated the capacity of genistein and ascorbic acid for preventing genotoxicity caused by meglumine antimoniate. For that, mice (n = 5/group) received genistein (via gavage) in doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg for three consecutive days. After this period, they were treated with 810 mg/kg meglumine antimoniate via intraperitoneal (i.p.) route. Furthermore, mice (n = 5/group) simultaneously received ascorbic acid (i.p.) in doses of 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg and 810 mg/kg meglumine antimoniate. We also conducted post- and pretreatment assays, in which animals received ascorbic acid (60 mg/kg) 24 h prior to or after receiving meglumine antimoniate. Genomic instability and mutagenicity were analyzed through conventional comet assay and enzymatic assay using formamide pyrimidine DNA glycosylase (Fpg) enzyme, as well as the micronucleus test, respectively. Meglumine antimoniate induced an increase in the DNA damage after digestion with Fpg, reinforcing its mutagenic potential by oxidizing DNA bases, which was prevented by genistein. Similarly, ascorbic acid was capable of reducing mutagenic effects in simultaneous treatment as well as in posttreatment. Therefore, our results demonstrate that both compounds are efficient in preventing mutations in mammalian cells treated with meglumine antimoniate.

Phyllanthus emblica Linn. fruit extract potentiates the anticancer efficacy of mitomycin C and cisplatin and reduces their genotoxicity to normal cells in vitro

OBJECTIVE

Fruit of Phyllanthus emblica Linn. (PE) is widely consumed as a functional food and used as a folk medicine due to its remarkable nutritional and pharmacological effects. Mitomycin C (MMC) and cisplatin (cDDP) are the most widely used forms of chemotherapeutic drug, but their clinical use is limited by their genotoxicity to normal cells. We aimed to determine whether PE has potential to reduce the genotoxicity, while improving the anticancer effect, of MMC and cDDP.

METHODS

Cell proliferation was evaluated using the trypan blue exclusion assay and colony-forming assay. Genomic instability (GIN) was measured using the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay.

RESULTS

Co-treatment (72 h) with PE at 20-320 μg/ml significantly enhanced the efficacy of MMC (0.05 μg/ml) and cDDP (1 μg/ml) against Colo205 colorectal cancer cells (P<0.05), and at 80-320 μg/ml significantly decreased MMC- and cDDP-induced GIN and multinucleation in normal colonic NCM460 cells (P<0.05). PE significantly decreased the mitotic index (P<0.01), blocked mitotic progression (P<0.05), and promoted apoptosis (P<0.01) in MMC- and cDDP-treated NCM460 cells, suggesting that PE-mediated inhibition of mitosis and induction of apoptosis may limit the division and survival of highly damaged cells. Also, PE was found to inhibit the clonal expansion of MMC- and cDDP-treated NCM460 cells (P<0.05) and decrease the heterogeneity of the surviving clones.

CONCLUSIONS

PE potentiates the anticancer efficacy of MMC and cDDP, while preventing their genotoxicity and inhibiting clonal expansions of unstable genomes in normal cells. These data suggest that PE has the potential to reduce the risk of secondary cancers induced by chemotherapeutics.

Pouteria ramiflora (Mart.) Radlk. extract: Flavonoids quantification and chemopreventive effect on HepG2 cells

Pouteria ramiflora (Mart.) Radlk., popularly known as curriola, is commonly used in Brazil as medicinal plant to treat worm infections, dysentery, pain, inflammation, hyperlipidemia, and obesity. At present the safety of this extract when used therapeutically in human remains to be determined. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine cytotoxicity, antiproliferative, and antimutagenic actions of this extract. The hydroalcoholic extract from P. ramiflora leaves consisted of flavonoids identified and quantified as myricetin-3-O-β-D-galactopyranoside (13.55 mg/g) and myricetin-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (9.61 mg/g). The extract exhibited cytotoxicity at concentrations higher than 1.5 µg/ml in human hepatocarcinoma (HepG2)and 2.5 µg/ml in non-tumoral primary gastric (GAS) cells using the MTT assay, and at concentrations higher than 3 µg/ml in HepG2 and 3.5 µg/ml in GAS cells by the neutral red assay. The extract did not show antiproliferative effect as evidenced by the nuclear division index (NDI). However, in the presence of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) (positive control), an enhanced cytostatic effect in the NDI and flow cytometry was noted. It is of interest that when the extract was co-incubated with BaP a significant decrease in DNA damage was observed indicating an antimutagenic action. This protective effect might be attributed to myricetin and gallic acid found in P. ramiflora extract. The low cytotoxicity action and protective effect observed in the present study encourage further studies regarding other biological effects of P. ramiflora, as well as its potential use as a chemopreventive agent.

Assessment of genetic integrity, splenic phagocytosis and cell death potential of (Z)-4-((1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl) amino)-4-oxobut-2-enoic acid and its effect when combined with commercial chemotherapeutics

The increased incidence of cancer and its high treatment costs have encouraged the search for new compounds to be used in adjuvant therapies for this disease. This study discloses the synthesis of (Z)-4-((1,5-dimethyl-3-oxo-2-phenyl-2,3dihydro-1H-pyrazol-4-yl) amino)-4-oxobut-2-enoic acid (IR-01) and evaluates not only the action of this compound on genetic integrity, increase in splenic phagocytosis and induction of cell death but also its effects in combination with the commercial chemotherapeutic agents doxorubicin, cisplatin and cyclophosphamide. IR-01 was designed and synthesized based on two multifunctionalyzed structural fragments: 4-aminoantipyrine, an active dipyrone metabolite, described as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent; and the pharmacophore fragment 1,4-dioxo-2-butenyl, a cytotoxic agent. The results indicated that IR-01 is an effective chemoprotector because it can prevent clastogenic and/or aneugenic damage, has good potential to prevent genomic damage, can increase splenic phagocytosis and lymphocyte frequency and induces cell death. However, its use as an adjuvant in combination with chemotherapy is discouraged since IR-01 interferes in the effectiveness of the tested chemotherapeutic agents. This is a pioneer study as it demonstrates the chemopreventive effects of IR-01, which may be associated with the higher antioxidant activity of the precursor structure of 4-aminoantipyrine over the effects of the 1,4-dioxo-2-butenyl fragment.

Antigenotoxicity properties of Copaifera multijuga oleoresin and its chemical marker, the diterpene (-)-copalic acid

In view of the biological activities and growing therapeutic interest in oleoresin obtained from Copaifera multijuga, this study aimed to determine the genotoxic and antigenotoxic potential of this oleoresin (CMO) and its chemical marker, diterpene (-)-copalic acid (CA). The micronucleus (MN) assay in V79 cell cultures and the Ames test were used for in vitro analyses, as well as MN and comet assays in Swiss mice for in vivo analyses. The in vitro genotoxicity/mutagenicity results showed that either CMO (30, 60, or 120 µg/ml-MN assay; 0.39-3.12 mg/plate-Ames test) or CA (2.42; 4.84, or 9.7 µg/ml-MN assay; 0.39-3.12 mg/plate-Ames test) did not induce a significant effect on the frequency of MN and number of revertants, demonstrating an absence of genotoxic and mutagenic activities, respectively, in vitro. In contrast, these natural products significantly reduced the frequency of MN induced by methyl methanesulfonate (MMS), and exerted a marked inhibitory effect against indirect-acting mutagens in the Ames test. In the in vivo test system, animals treated with CMO (6.25 mg/kg b.w.) exhibited a significant decrease in rate of MN occurrence compared to those treated only with MMS. An antigenotoxic effect of CA was noted in the MN test (1 and 2 mg/kg b.w.) and the comet assay (0.5 mg/kg b.w.). Data suggest that the chemical marker of the genus Copaifera, CA, may partially be responsible for the observed chemopreventive effect attributed to CMO exposure.

ABBREVIATIONS

2-AA, 2-anthramine; 2-AF, 2-aminofluorene; AFB₁, aflatoxin B₁; B[a]P, benzo[a]pyrene; BOD, biological oxygen demand; BPDE, benzo[a]pyrene-7,8-diol-9,10-epoxide; CA, (-)-copalic acid; CMO, oleoresin of Copaifera multijuga, DMEM, Dulbecco`s Modified Eagles`s Medium; DMSO, dimethylsulfoxide; EMBRAPA, Brazilian agricultural research corporation; GC-MS, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry; HAM-F10, nutrient mixture F-10 Ham; HPLC, high performance liquid chromatography; LC-MS, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry; MI, mutagenic index; MMC, mitomycin C; MMS, methyl methanesulfonate; MN, micronucleus; MNPCE, micronucleated polychromatic erythrocyte; NCE, normochromatic erythrocyte; NDI, nuclear division index; NMR, nuclear magnetic resonance; NPD, 4-nitro-o-phenylenediamine; PBS, phosphate-buffered saline; PCE, polychromatic erythrocyte; SA, sodium azide; V79, Chinese hamster lung fibroblast.

Heated naringin mitigate the genotoxicity effect of Mitomycin C in BALB/c mice through enhancing the antioxidant status

A major problem with cancer chemotherapy is its severe toxic effects on non-target tissues. Assessment of natural products for their protective effect against anticancer drugs induced toxicity is gaining importance in cancer biology. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of native and thermal treated naringin on the protective effect against mitomycin C (MMC) induced genotoxicity. The genotoxicity in liver kidney and brain cells isolated from Balb/C mice were evaluated by performing the comet assay. Antioxidant and lipid peroxidation assays were carried out to understand the protective effects of these compounds. The comet assay showed that heated and native naringin were not genotoxic at the tested dose (40 mg/kg b.w) on liver, kidney and brain cells. A significant decrease in DNA damages was observed, at the tested doses (20 mg/kg b.w and 40 mg/kg b.w) suggesting a protective role of these molecules against the genotoxicity induced by mitomycin C on liver, kidney and brain cells. Moreover, administration of MMC (6 mg/kg b.w.) altered the activities of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase accompanied by a significant increase of lipid peroxidation. Pretreatment of mouse with heated and native naringin before MMC administration significantly raised the glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activities followed by a reduced MMC-induced lipid peroxidation. Our study demonstrated that heat treatment of naringin preserve activities of native naringin. The genoprotective properties of heated and native naringin against MMC could be attributed to its antioxidant activities and its inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation.

Phytochemical study and evaluation of cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, cell cycle kinetics and gene expression of Bauhinia holophylla (Bong.) Steud. in HepG2 cells in vitro

Bauhinia holophylla (Bong.) Steud. (Fabaceae) is a plant used in Brazilian folk medicine to treat diabetes and inflammation. This study evaluated the phytochemical properties, cytotoxic, apoptotic, mutagenic/antimutagenic effects and alterations in gene expression (RNAm) in HepG2 cells treated with the B. holophylla extract. The phytochemical profile highlight the presence of flavonoids isorhamentin and quercetin derivates. The MTT assay was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of different concentrations for different treatment times. Three concentrations (7.5, 15, 30 µg/mL) were chosen for assessment of apoptosis (AO/EB), mutagenicity (micronucleus), and cell cycle kinetics (flow cytometry). Thereafter, the concentration of 7.5 µg/mL was chosen to evaluate the protective effects against DNA damage induced by benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P). At concentrations higher than 7.5 µg/mL (between 10 and 50 µg/mL), the extract was cytotoxic, induced apoptosis, and caused antiproliferative effects. However, it did not induce micronucleus and a reduction of apoptotic and micronucleated cells was observed in treatments that included the extract and B[a]P. The protective effect is attributable to the presence of flavonoids, described as antioxidants, inhibitors of DNA adduct and activators of detoxifying enzymes. The results of the present study such as absence of cytotoxic and mutagenic effects and protective effects against known carcinogens suggest that B. holophylla has potential for use soon as herbal medicine.

Podophyllum hexandrum ameliorates endosulfan-induced genotoxicity and mutagenicity in freshwater cyprinid fish crucian carp

CONTEXT

Medicinal plants continue to act as a repository for novel drug leads with novel mechanisms of action. Podophyllum hexandrum Royale (Berberideceae) treats diverse conditions in folk medicine.

OBJECTIVE

The antimutagenic potential of P. hexandrum was evaluated against endosulfan-induced clastogenicity in a piscine model by cytogenetic endpoints.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Podophyllum hexandrum rhizomes were subjected to successive solvent extraction. Fish were exposed to hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous extracts (15 mg/L each) of plant and endosulfan (0.05 mg/L) alone followed by their combination for antimutagenicity estimates. Chromosomal aberrations (CA) were made from kidney cells and micronuclei (MN) slides from peripheral blood erythrocytes at 48, 72 and 96 h. Antioxidant activity was analyzed by the DPPH assay. Phytochemical analyses were carried out using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques.

RESULTS

Endosulfan induced significant (p < .05) MN, authenticated by scanning electron microscopy, and CA in a time-dependent manner. However, methanol and ethyl acetate extracts revealed ameliorating effects. The column eluted methanolic fraction-2 (ME-F2) showed highest reduction profile of 83 and 84% in CA and MN, followed in its extent (73 and 72%) by ethyl acetate fraction-4 (EE-F4). ME-F2 and EE-F4 showed three and six major peaks when analyzed by GC-MS. To explore possible mechanism of action, ME-F2 showed potent antioxidant potential and strong correlation (R²=.900) with antimutagenic activity, whereas EE-F4 seemed to act through a different mechanism.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

This study confirms the antimutagenic potential of the subject plant with the identification of some novel compounds, justifying their use in folk medicine, and their corresponding benefit to mankind.

Assessment of the antioxidant, cytotoxic, and genotoxic potential of the Annona muricata leaves and their influence on genomic stability

The popular use of Annona muricata L. is based upon a range of medicinal purposes, and the plant exhibits biological activities including antihyperglycemic, antiparasitic, and antitumor activities. The objectives of this study were to examine the antioxidant, cytotoxic, and genotoxic potential of the hydroalcoholic extract of A. muricata leaves (AMEs), as well as its effects on genotoxicity induced by methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). The results using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay showed that AME was able to scavenge 44.71% of free radicals. The extract significantly reduced the viability of V79 cells in the clonogenic assay at concentrations ≥8 µg/ml. No significant differences in micronucleus (MN) frequency were observed between V79 cell cultures treated with different concentrations of the extract (0.125, 0.25, 0.5, and 1 µg/ml) and negative control. When AME concentrations were combined with MMS, data revealed no marked differences from mutagen alone. In contrast, significant reductions in the frequencies of MN were noted in cultures treated with AME combined with H₂O₂ compared to H₂O₂ alone. In vivo studies found no significant differences in the frequencies of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCEs) between animals treated with different AME doses compared to control. Animals treated with AME doses of 125 and 250 mg/kg and MMS exhibited significantly higher frequencies of MNPCE compared to mutagen alone. In conclusion, under current experimental conditions, AME was not genotoxic and exerted a modulatory effect on DNA damage depending upon the experimental conditions. The extract did not influence markedly MMS-induced genotoxicity in in vitro test system. However, the extract increased DNA damage induced by mutagen in mice. In V79 cells, AME reduced the genotoxicity produced by H₂O₂, and this protective effect was attributed in part to the antioxidant activity of AME.

In vivo chemotherapeutic insight of a novel isocoumarin (3-hexyl-5,7-dimethoxy-isochromen-1-one): Genotoxicity, cell death induction, leukometry and phagocytic evaluation

Chemotherapy is one of the major approaches for the treatment of cancer. Therefore, the development of new chemotherapy drugs is an important aspect of medicinal chemistry. Chemotherapeutic agents include isocoumarins, which are privileged structures with potential antitumoral activity. Herein, a new 3-substituted isocoumarin was synthesized from 2-iodo-3,5-dimethoxy-benzoic acid and oct-1-yne in a cross-coupling Sonogashira reaction followed by a copper iodide-catalyzed intramolecular cyclization as key step using MeOH/Et₃N as the solvent system. The present study also evaluated the leukometry, phagocytic activity, genotoxic potential and cell death induction of three different doses (5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg) of this newly synthesized isocoumarin, alone and in combination with the commercial chemotherapeutic agents cyclophosphamide (100 mg/kg) and cisplatin (6 mg/kg) in male Swiss mice. The results suggest that the isocoumarin has genotoxicity and causes cell death. Noteworthy, this new compound can increase splenic phagocytosis and lymphocyte frequency, which are related to immunomodulatory activity. When combined with either cyclophosphamide or cisplatin, chemopreventive activity led to a reduction in the effects of both chemotherapeutic drugs. Thus, the new isocoumarin is not a candidate for chemotherapeutic adjuvant in treatments using cyclophosphamide or cisplatin. Nevertheless, the compound itself is an important prototype for the development of new antitumor drugs.

Amelioration of the cyclophosphamide induced genotoxic damage in mice by the ethanolic extract of Equisetum arvense

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Plants like E. arvense posess not only nutritional value but therapeutic value as well.

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CPA is an important chemotherapeutic agent but is associated with various mutagenic and other toxic side effects.

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Ethanolic extract of the plant has immense protective effect against the genotoxic damage induced by the cyclophosphamide.

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GC–MS analysis of the extract shows various important phyto components which may be associated with its antimutagenic property.

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Plant can be used in cancer as a chemopreventive agent or even as a coadjuvant to chemotherapy to reduce the side effects associated with it.

In the present study, we evaluated the potential of the plant E. arvense against the cytotoxic and mutagenic effects induced by cyclophosphamide (chemotherapeutic agent) in the bone marrow cells of mice using the Chromosome assay (CA) and Mitotic index (MI) in vivo as the biomarkers. The study was performed following 3 protocols: pre-treatment, simultaneous treatment and post-treatment with the ethanolic extract of the plant. The results demonstrated that the plant extract was not cytotoxic and mutagenic and has a protective effect against the mutagenicity induced by cyclophosphamide in pre, simultaneous and post treatments and against its cytotoxicity as well. Because of its ability to prevent chromosomal damage, E. arvense is likely to open an interesting field concerning its possible use in clinical applications, most importantly in cancer as a chemopreventive agent or even as a coadjuvant to chemotherapy to reduce the side effects associated with it.

Efeito da Astrocaryum aculeatum (Tucumã) na toxicidade da Doxorrubicina: modelo experimental in vivo

Resumo Objetivo Obter o óleo do Astrocaryum aculeatum (A.a) e avaliar a genotoxidade/antigenotoxidade pelo teste do micronúcleo em células do sangue periférico. Métodos O óleo da A.a foi obtido por prensagem hidráulica. Os animais foram camundongos Swiss, machos e saudáveis com 6-7 semanas de idade, 6 por grupo. Teste genotóxico e antigenotóxico as concentrações foram de 500, 1.000 e 2.000 mg/kg por 0,5 mL (via oral), seguidas ou não de injeção intraperitoneal de doxorrubicina (0,3mL - 15 mg/kg por peso corporal), além do grupo negativo (água) e dimetilsufóxido (600 µL). As amostras de sangue periférico foram coletadas 24h e 48h após o tratamento. Resultados Houve redução estatisticamente significativa na frequência de micronúcleos em células policromáticas que variou de 34,72% à 38,19% para os tratamentos de 24h, e de 63,70 à 66,12% para os de 48h. Conclusão O óleo fixo do tucumã apresentou potencial antigenotóxico para as concentrações em tratamentos agudos.

Combining in vitro, in vivo and in silico approaches to evaluate nutraceutical potentials and chemical fingerprints of Moltkia aurea and Moltkia coerulea

Methanolic extracts of Moltkia aurea Boiss. (MA) and Moltkia coerulea (Willd.) Lehm. (MC) were investigated for their antioxidant capacity and enzymatic inhibitory potential against acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and tyrosinase in vitro. MA and MC were also explored for their antimicrobial effect, as well as for their possible genotoxic/antigenotoxic potential on Drosophila melanogaster in vivo. The total bioactive components (phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC)) were determined and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) metabolite profiling of MA and MC appraised. The plausible docking poses of bioactive compounds to key enzymes were further studied using molecular modelling approach. MA proved to be a better antioxidant with higher TPC and TFC compared to MC. Protocatechuic acid, rutin, hesperidin and malic acid were the most abundant in these extracts. Both MA and MC exhibited antigenotoxic potential with a %R in DNA damage of 60.90 and 53.14% respectively. The docking studies revealed that rutin, hesperidin, and rosmarinic acid have the best scores for all the enzymes tested. MA and MC were found to be rich in phytochemicals with potent antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antigenotoxic activities that can be further studied for the management of neurodegenerative complications, diabetes, and hyperpigmentation.

Digoxin reduces the mutagenic effects of Mitomycin C in human and rodent cell lines

Digoxin is a drug widely used to treat heart failure and studies have demonstrated its potential as anticancer agent. In addition, digoxin presents the potential to interact with a series of other compounds used in medicine. The aim of the present study was to evaluate in vitro the cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and mutagenicity of digoxin and its potential to interact with the mutagen Mitomycin C (MMC). The cytotoxicity of digoxin was assessed by employing the MTT method and the comet assay was performed to assess the genotoxicity of this medicine in CHO-K1 and HeLa cell lines. Besides, the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay was performed to assess the mutagenicity and the antimutagenicity of this drug. The Ames assay was also performed with TA98 and TA100 strains of S. typhimurium. Results showed that digoxin was cytotoxic, genotoxic and mutagenic for HeLa and CHO-K1 cell lines at concentrations many times higher than those observed in human therapeutic conditions. Nevertheless, an antimutagenic effect against the mutagen MMC was observed on both cell lines in concentrations near those used therapeutically in humans. This chemoprotective effect observed is an interesting finding that should be better explored regarding its impact in anticancer chemotherapy.

Absence of genotoxic effects of the chalcone (E)-1-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-3-(4-methylphenyl)-prop-2-en-1-one) and its potential chemoprevention against DNA damage using in vitro and in vivo assays

The chalcone (E)-1-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-3-(4-methylphenyl)-prop-2-en-1-one), or 2HMC, displays antileishmanial, antimalarial, and antioxidant activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, and protective effects of 2HMC using the Ames mutagenicity test, the mouse bone marrow micronucleus test, and the comet assay in mice. In the assessment using the Ames test, 2HMC did not increase the number of His⁺ revertants in Salmonella typhimurium strains, demonstrating lack of mutagenicity. 2HMC showed no significant increase in micronucleated polychromatic erythrocyte frequency (MNPCE) in the micronucleus test, or in DNA strand breaks using the comet assay, evidencing absence of genotoxicity. Regarding cytotoxicity, 2HMC exhibited moderate cytotoxicity in mouse bone marrow cells by micronucleus test. 2HMC showed antimutagenic action in co-administration with the positive controls, sodium azide (SA) and 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO), in the Ames test. Co-administered and mainly pre-administered with cyclophosphamide (CPA), 2HMC caused a decrease in the frequency of MNPCE using the micronucleus test and in DNA strand breaks using the comet assay. Thus, 2HMC exhibited antimutagenic and antigenotoxic effects, displaying a DNA-protective effect against CPA, SA, and 4NQO carcinogens. In conclusion, 2HMC presented antimutagenic, antigenotoxic and moderate cytotoxic effects; therefore it is a promising molecule for cancer prevention.