Genotoxicity of five food preservatives tested on root tips of Allium cepa L

Investigation of the potential role of fusicoccin, a fungal phytotoxin, in mitigating salt stress in onion roots

Fusicoccin is a diterpene glycoside that plays an important role in the regulation of plant growth and development. Fusicoccin produced by Fusicoccum amydali fungus is known to affect plant growth positively with external applications due to its potential to stimulate the tolerance system of plants under stress conditions. In this study, it was aimed to reduce the negative effects of salt (0.15 M NaCl) stress on the germination and growth of onion (Allium cepa L.) bulbs by external fusicoccin (3 µM) application. For this purpose, the germination percentage, root length, root number, fresh weight, mitotic activity, micronucleus frequency, chromosomal abnormality, antioxidant enzyme activity, osmolyte accumulation, cell membrane damage and root anatomical structure were investigated in the current study. Salt stress caused a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in all examined parameters. External application of fusicoccin to onion bulbs germinated under salt stress conditions was found to be promising as a plant growth promoter and mitosis stimulator. In addition, fusicoccin application alleviated the harmful effects of salt stress on the chromosome structure and root anatomical structure and protected the cells from the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of salt. Moreover, this application contributed to the fight against reactive oxygen species of onion plant and increased salt tolerance by regulating the accumulation of osmolyte substances such as proline and antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, and by minimizing cell membrane damage in root cells. In conclusion, this study showed that exogenous application of 3 µM fusicoccin reduced the damage caused by oxidative stress in onion bulbs and served for healthy germination and growth.

Modulation of NaCl-induced osmotic, cytogenetic, oxidative and anatomic damages by coronatine treatment in onion (Allium cepa L.)

Coronatine (COR), a bacterial phytotoxin produced by Pseudomonas syringae, plays important roles in many plant growth processes. Onion bulbs were divided four groups to investigate the effects of COR against sodium chloride (NaCl) stress exposure in Allium cepa L. root tips. While control group bulbs were soaked in tap water medium, treatment group bulbs were grown in 0.15 M NaCl, 0.01 µM COR and 0.01 µM COR + 0.15 M NaCl medium, respectively. NaCl stress seriously inhibited the germination, root lenght, root number and fresh weight of the bulbs. It significantly decreased the mitotic index (MI), whereas dramatically increased the micronucleus (MN) frequency and chromosomal aberrations (CAs). Moreover, in order to determine the level of lipid peroxidation occurring in the cell membrane, malondialdehyde (MDA) content was measured and it was determined that it was at the highest level in the group germinated in NaCl medium alone. Similarly, it was revealed that the superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and free proline contents in the group germinated in NaCl medium alone were higher than the other groups. On the other hand, NaCl stress caused significant injuries such as epidermis/cortex cell damage, MN formation in epidermis/cortex cells, flattened cells nuclei, unclear vascular tissue, cortex cell wall thickening, accumulation of certain chemical compounds in cortex cells and necrotic areas in the anatomical structure of bulb roots. However, exogenous COR application significantly alleviated the negative effects of NaCl stress on bulb germination and growth, antioxidant defense system, cytogenetic and anatomical structure. Thus, it has been proven that COR can be used as a protective agent against the harmful effects of NaCl on onion.

Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening of Nerium oleander L. extracts associated with toxicity profile

In this study, phytochemical analysis and toxicity profile of leaf and flower extracts of Nerium oleander L. species collected from Giresun province (Turkey) were investigated. In phytochemical analyzes, the cardiac glycoside, alkaloid, saponin and tannin contents of the extracts were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The physiological effects of extracts were determined by examining root elongation, weight gain and germination rates. Biochemical effects were determined by measuring the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), which are indicators of oxidative stress. Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects were investigated by mitotic index (MI), micronucleus (MN) and chromosomal abnormality (CA) tests. N. oleander leaf and flower extract applications caused significant decreases in the physiological parameters of Allium bulbs. SOD and CAT activity in root tip cells increased significantly after the application of leaf extract compared to the control group. Similar changes were observed in the application of flower extract, but these increases were found to be at a lower level compared to the increases induced by the leaf extract. An increase in MDA levels and a decrease in GSH levels were observed in groups treated with leaf and flower extracts. These changes show that the extracts cause deterioration in antioxidant/oxidant balance. It was determined that the extracts, which caused a decrease in MI rates and an increase in MN and CAs frequencies, showed the most prominent cytotoxic and genotoxic effects at 250 μg/mL doses. These toxic effects were associated with the phytochemical content of the extracts, and it was thought that cardiac glycosides and alkaloids, whose presence were detected in qualitative and quantitative analyzes, may play an important role in toxicity. Studies investigating the therapeutic properties of plants as well as their toxic effects are insufficient, which leads to the fact that plants exhibiting potential toxicity are not well known. Therefore, this study will lead many studies on the toxicity profile of the phytochemical contents of plants. Therefore, this study will draw attention to the investigation of the toxicity profile and phytochemical contents of plants and will lead to similar studies.

Spectroscopic contribution to glyphosate toxicity profile and the remedial effects of Momordica charantia

In this study, the glyphosate toxicity and the toxicity-reducing role of bitter melon extract (Bmex) (Momordica charantia L.) were investigated in Allium cepa L. test material. The toxicity of glyphosate and protective role of Bmex were investigated with the help of physiological (germination, root elongation and weight gain), cytogenetic (mitotic index-MI, micronucleus-MN and chromosomal abnormalities-CAs), biochemical (malondialdehyde-MDA, superoxide dismutase-SOD and catalase-CAT) and anatomical (root meristem cell damage) parameters. The genotoxicity mechanism of glyphosate was elucidated by spectral analysis. A. cepa bulbs were divided into six groups as one control and five applications. Tap water was applied to the bulbs in the control group for 72 h. Glyphosate (500 mg/L) and two different doses of Bmex (350 and 700 mg/L) were applied to the bulbs in the treatment group for 72 h. At the end of the period, the germinated bulbs were prepared for experimental analyses, measurements and observations by applying routine preparation procedures. As a result, glyphosate administration caused a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in all selected physiological parameter values, and significant (p < 0.05) increases in the number of cytogenetic parameters (except MI), the levels of biochemical parameters and the severity of anatomical damage. Glyphosate promoted CAs such as fragment, sticky chromosome, bridge and unequal distribution of chromatin in root tip meristem cells. By spectral analysis, it was determined that glyphosate interacts directly with DNA and causes genotoxicity. It also caused anatomical damages such as epidermis cell damage, cortex cell damage, flattened cell nucleus, binuclear cell and irregular vascular tissue in root tip meristem cells. Co-administration of glyphosate with Bmex at two different doses (350 and 700 mg/L) reduced the toxicity of glyphosate and led to significant (p < 0.05) improvements in the values of all parameters examined. It was determined that this improvement was even more pronounced at 700 mg/L dose of Bmex. As a result, it was determined that glyphosate herbicide caused multi-dimensional toxicity in A. cepa test material, and Bmex reduced the effects of this toxicity due to its antioxidant properties. Therefore, glyphosate dose ranges need to be reconsidered, especially considering non-target organisms in agricultural applications. In addition, antioxidant products such as Bmex should be included in the daily diet in order to reduce the toxic effects of environmental agents such as pesticides.

Cytogenotoxicity assessment in Allium cepa roots exposed to methyl orange treated with Oedogonium subplagiostomum AP1

The present study is an attempt to assess the cytogenotoxic effect of untreated and methyl orange treated with Oedogonium subplagiostomum AP1 on Allium cepa roots. On the fifth day, root growth, root length, mitotic index, mitotic inhibition/depression, and chromosomal abnormalities were measured in root cells of Allium cepa subjected to untreated and treated methyl orange dye solutions. Roots exposed to treated dye solution exhibited maximum root growth, root length and mitotic index, whereas roots exposed to untreated dye solution had the most mitotic inhibition and chromosomal abnormalities. Allium cepa exposed to untreated dye solution revealed chromosomal aberrations such as disoriented and abnormal chromosome grouping, vagrant and laggard chromosomes, chromosomal loss, sticky chain and disturbed metaphase, pulverised and disturbed anaphase, chromosomal displacement in anaphase, abnormal telophase, and chromosomal bridge at telophase, spindle disturbances and binucleate cells. The comet test was used to quantify DNA damage in the root cells of A. cepa subjected to untreated and treated methyl orange solutions in terms of tail DNA (percent) and tail length. The results concluded that A. cepa exposed to methyl orange induced DNA damage whereas meager damage was noted in the treated dye solution. As a result, the research can be used as a biomarker to detect the genotoxic effects of textile dyes on biota.

Alkaline-extracted cyanide from cassava wastewater and its sole induction of chromosomal aberrations in Allium cepa L. root tips

Cassava, a staple crop in Nigeria, processed by numerous factories in rural and suburban locations is known to contain some level of cyano compounds. Lack of stringent environmental regulations on the management of cassava wastewater (CWW) from cassava-processing factories had led to its indiscriminate discharge on the environment. CWW samples were obtained from cassava-processing factories from selected states (Lagos (A), Oyo (B), Ogun 1 (C1), Ogun 2 (C2) and Cross River (D)) in Nigeria to determine the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of extracted cyanide from the wastewaters. The cyanide was hydrolysed via chemical degradation utilizing 1.25 M NaOH and subsequently titrated using silver nitrate with p-dimethylaminobenzalrhodamine as indicator. Further, in order to explore the potential toxicity of this pollutant present in the effluent, a battery of short-term biological assay (Allium cepa chromosomal aberration test) was used. Bulbs with roots of Allium cepa L. were treated with different concentrations (0.05%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.8%) of CWW, and after 48 h, the root tips were processed for cytological studies by the aceto-orcein squash procedure. The results revealed that cyanide concentrations on re-fluxing were in the range of 1.0 and 1.3 mg/L. All concentrations induced a number of chromosomal aberrations in the root tip cells. The mitotic index decreased significantly (p < 0.05) with increasing concentration. The cytotoxic effects showed strong concentration-dependent root growth inhibition with EC₅₀ values of 30%, 20%, 37%, 43% and 22% for A, B, C1, C2 and D, after 72 h. The findings thus indicate that alkali treatment is very efficient in degrading the cyanide content of CWW and has shown that the combination of physico-chemical analysis along with the sole toxicity assessment could provide valuable information about the sole toxicity of cyanide as a chemical pollutant present in the cassava effluent.

Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects induced by associated commercial glyphosate and 2,4-D formulations using the Allium cepa bioassay

Studies assessing the toxicity of glyphosate and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid mixture are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the mixture of these herbicides using Allium cepa. Roots were exposed to glyphosate (1.56 and 11.66 mg mL-1), 2,4-D (0.28 and 17.5 mg mL-1) and mixture for 24 h, based on the average concentration applied in the field and the acute reference dose (ARfD) established in Brazil. Both isolated and associated herbicides induced a significative decrease in mitotic index (MI) (P < 0.0001) in all tested concentrations. Regarding the genotoxicity results, 2,4-D and the mixture showed, at concentrations applied in the field, a significative increase of chromosomal anomalies (CA) index compared to control (P < 0.0001) and glyphosate (P = 0.024 and P = 0.0002, respectively). All tested groups from the ARfD showed a significative difference compared to the control group (P < 0.0001), as well as glyphosate and 2,4-D isolated compared to the mixture (P = 0.0005 and P < 0.0001, respectively). The most observed CA were apoptotic bodies, giant cells, and nuclear erosions. We emphasize the need for further studies assessing the toxicity of these herbicides' mixture due to the distinct effects caused in different organisms.

Powerful toxic activity of citrinin, a fungal phytotoxin, and its mode of action in onion cells

The dose-related effects of citrinin (CTN) on various physiological, cytogenetic, biochemical, and anatomical parameters using Allium cepa L. bulbs as a test material were researched in the present study. The physiological parameters examinated were fresh weight, root length, root number, and germination percentage; the cytogenetic parameters were micronucleus (MN) frequency, chromosome aberration (CA), and mitotic index (MI); the biochemical parameters were catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and free proline contents. And the anatomical changes in root tip cells were investigated by cross-sections. For this aim, onion bulbs were splitted four groups as three applications and one control. The bulbs in the control group were treated with distilled water; the bulbs in the application groups were treated with 1 μM, 5 μM, and 10 μM doses of CTN for 7 days. CTN application caused a decrease in the physiological parameters compared to the control group. This treatment created an increase in the frequency of MN and CA, and a reduce in the MI. In addition, it induced a dose-dependent increase in CAT and SOD activities and MDA and proline contents compared to the control group. Moreover, after CTN application, anatomical changes such as flattened nucleus, cell wall thickening, and cell deformation were identified and it was found that these changes reached their maximum at 10 mg/L dose CTN. Concequently, CTN caused inhibitory effects and the Allium test material was found to be a useful bioindicator for monitoring these effects.

In vivo toxicological assessment of diquat dibromide: cytotoxic, genotoxic, and biochemical approach

Diquat dibromide is a comprehensive herbicide commonly used in the cultivation of cotton, soybeans, and other crops to combat unwanted weeds. In this study, the half-maximal effective concentration (EC₅₀) value of diquat dibromide was determined 60 mg/L in the Allium root growth inhibition test. ½ × EC₅₀ (30 mg/L), EC₅₀ (60 mg/L), and 2 × EC₅₀ (120 mg/L) concentrations of diquat dibromide were applied to Allium cepa L. bulbs for 72 h to investigate the dose-dependent toxic effects. To determine the toxic effects cytogenetic, biochemical and physiological parameters were used. Physiological effects were investigated by determination of the percentage of rooting, relative injury rate, root length, and weight gain. Genetic effects were evaluated by the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities (CAs), micronucleus (MN) formation, mitotic index (MI) rate, and comet assay. Biochemical parameters were evaluated with antioxidant enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation by determining malondialdehyde (MDA) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, catalase (CAT) activity, and glutathione (GSH) level. Also, chlorophyll pigment contents (a, b, and total) in green leaves were calculated to elucidate the effect of diquat dibromide on plants and the biosphere. The findings show that increasing doses of diquat dibromide caused a decrease in all physiological parameters and MI ratio, promoting MN and CAs and tail DNA formation in genetic parameters. It was determined by the increases in MDA level, SOD, and CAT activities and decreases in GSH levels that diquat dibromide administration caused oxidative stress depending on the dose. Also, chlorophyll pigment levels (a, b, and total) measured in leaf tissues decreased with the application dose. Considering that the toxic effects caused by diquat dibromide and that organisms other than unwanted plants will be exposed during the application, its use should be abandoned and biocontrol methods should be used instead. In cases where use is compulsory, doses that will not harm the environment and organisms should be determined and used.

Cytotoxic and genotoxic evaluation of copper oxychloride through Allium test and molecular docking studies

Copper oxychloride gained great importance due to its broad-spectrum antifungal action to combat various fungal diseases of plants. However, excess quantity of cupric fungicides on plants causes enzymatic changes and toxic effects. Thus, the current study was aimed to investigate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of copper oxychloride on Allium cepa root cells. The root growth, mitotic index (MI), chromosomal aberrations (CAs), and DNA damage were assessed through root growth inhibition, A. cepa ana-telophase, and alkaline comet assays. Furthermore, molecular docking was performed to evaluate binding affinities of two copper oxychloride polymorphs (atacamite and paratacamite) on DNA. In root growth inhibition test, onion root length was statistically significantly decreased by changing the copper oxychloride concentration from lower (2.64±0.11 cm) to higher (0.92±0.12 cm). Concentration- and time-dependent decrease in MI was observed whereas increase in CAs such as disturbed ana-telophase, chromosome laggards, stickiness, anaphase bridges, and DNA damage were caused by the copper oxychloride on A. cepa root cells. Molecular docking results revealed that the two main polymorphs of copper oxychloride (atacamite and paratacamite) bind selectively to G and C nucleotides on the B-DNA structure. It is concluded that the atacamite- and paratacamite-induced DNA damage may be through minor groove recognition and intercalation. Findings of the current study revealed the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of copper oxychloride on A. cepa root cells. However, further studies should be carried out at the molecular level to reveal the cyto-genotoxic mechanism of action of copper oxychloride in detail.

Therapeutic effects of royal jelly against sodium benzoate-induced toxicity: cytotoxic, genotoxic, and biochemical assessment

In this study, the protective role of royal jelly (RJ) against the potential toxic effects of sodium benzoate was investigated in Allium cepa L. test material with physiological, genetic, and biochemical parameters. Physiological changes were evaluated by determining weight gain, rooting percentage, root length, and relative injury rate. The genetic evaluations were carried out with chromosomal abnormalities (CAs), micronucleus (MN), tail DNA formation, and mitotic index (MI) ratio parameters. The biochemical evaluations were carried out by determining lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activities by determining levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Further, the interaction of sodium benzoate with antioxidant enzymes was evaluated with molecular docking analysis. The antimutagenic effect of RJ was evaluated as the inhibition of chromosomal abnormalities (CAs) and tail DNA formations. A total of six groups were formed in the study. A. cepa L. bulbs in the control group were treated with tap water; the bulbs in the administration groups were treated with sodium benzoate (100 mg/L), RJ (25 mg/L and 50 mg/L doses), and sodium benzoate-RJ combinations with these doses for 72 h. As a result, it was determined that sodium benzoate application caused inhibition of physiological parameters and MI; induced MN, CAs, and DNA damage; and also caused oxidative stress. Depending on the concentration of RJ application, it reduced sodium benzoate toxicity by showing therapeutic effects in all these parameters. Also, the interaction of sodium benzoate with antioxidant enzyme residues was determined by molecular docking analysis. As a result, it has been understood that abandoning the use of sodium benzoate will be beneficial for the environment and human health and concluded that the use of RJ in the daily diet will be effective in reducing the impact of exposed toxic ingredients.

Butylated hydroxytoluene and Butylated hydroxyanisole induced cyto-genotoxicity in root cells of Allium cepa L

This study aims to evaluate the effects of preservatives on somatic cells of Allium cepa. For the evaluation of cytotoxicity, root meristems of A. cepa were treated with 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500 ppm concentration for 5, 10, 15 days. The root tips showed concentration dependent growth retardation in all the used concentrations, as well as root texture, also has been changed mitotic index, total protein content decreased and frequency of chromosomal aberrations increased after 5 days treatment. Additionally, the RAPD-PCR method was applied to evaluate genotoxicity and found the highest concentration (2500 ppm) was comparatively more distant to the control group. Results concluded that BHT and BHA showed positive results and cytotoxic.

Antiproliferative, genotoxic and mutagenic potential of synthetic chocolate food flavoring

Flavoring additives are of great technological importance for the food industry. However, there is little information regarding the toxicological properties of these micro-ingredients, especially at the cellular level. The present study used meristematic root cells of Allium cepa L. to evaluate the toxicity of a liquid, aroma and flavor synthetic chocolate additive, manufactured and widely marketed throughout Brazil and exported to other countries in South America. The flavoring concentrations evaluated were 100.00; 50.00; 25.00; 1.00; 0.50 and 0.25 µL/L, where the highest concentration established was one-hundred times lower than that commercially suggested for use. The concentration 100 µL/L substantially reduced cell division of meristems within 24- and 48-hours exposure. Concentrations from 100.00 to 0.50 µL/L resulted in a significant number of prophases to the detriment of the other phases of cell division, indicating an aneugenic activity, and induced a significant number of cellular changes, with emphasis on micronuclei, nuclear buds and chromosomal breaks. Under the established analysis conditions, with the exception of concentration 0.25 µL/L, the flavoring of chocolate caused cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and mutagenicity to root meristems.

Active Polypropylene-Based Films Incorporating Combined Antioxidants and Antimicrobials: Preparation and Characterization

Development of polypropylene (PP) films incorporating antioxidant-antimicrobial agents can inhibit microbial growth and reduce undesirable deteriorating reactions and can preserve the quality of food. This study was aimed to use a combination of sorbic acid (SA), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) to provide a synergistic effect at their reduced concentrations. A Combination of the additives was more effective in enhancing mechanical properties compared to their single state in film composition. The PP-2%SA-3%BHA film (T₃) had the highest tensile strength (17.9 MPa) and the lowest elongation at break (7.1%) than other films. The fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) proposed physical mixing of active additives within PP-matrix. Scanning electron microscopy showed uniform dispersion of the additives in PP-2%SA-1%BHT-1%BHA film (T₄) compared to others. BHT containing films decreased the storage and loss moduli leading to weakening of film viscoelastic behaviour and reducing film melting point. The prepared active films showed higher antioxidant activity than control PP-film following an order of T₄ > T₂ > T₃ corresponding to DPPH radical scavenging values of 89.1, 83.4 and 79.1%, respectively. All active films inhibited gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria growth. The results of this study indicated that the prepared active films possess desirable mechanical, thermal, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties enabling their use in food packaging.

Evaluation of Cyto-genotoxicity of Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) to Allium cepa

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have emerged as contaminants of global concern. Among several PFAS, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are persistent and bioaccumulative compounds. We investigated the cyto-genotoxic potential of PFOS to Allium cepa root meristem cells. The A. cepa root tips were exposed to 6 different concentrations (1-100 mg L^-1 ) of PFOS for 48 h. Reduction in mitotic index and chromosomal aberrations was measured as genotoxic endpoints in meristematic root cells. Exposure to PFOS significantly affected cell division by reducing the miotic index at higher concentrations (>10 mg L^-1 ). The median effect concentration of PFOS to elicit cytotoxicity based on the mitotic index was 43.2 mg L^-1 . Exposure to PFOS significantly increased chromosomal aberrations at concentrations >25 mg L^-1 . The common aberrations were micronuclei, vagrant cells, and multipolar anaphase. The alkaline comet assay revealed a genotoxic potential of PFOS with increased tail DNA percentage at concentrations >25 mg L^-1 . To our knowledge, this is the first study to report the cyto-genotoxic potential of PFOS in higher plants. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:792-798. © 2020 SETAC.

The Role of Oily and Methanolic Extracts of Phoenix Dactylifera Leaves in Ameliorating CCl4 Cytotoxicity in Male Rats

The study was performed to investigate the protective effect of different methanolic and oily extracts of leave and dry date of Phoenix dactylifera against oxidative stress induced by CCl4 on 49 Sprague-Dawley male rats weighed 175-200 g and aged 6-8 months. The animals were equally divided into 7 groups and assigned as follows: G1, administered 0.1 mL distilled water orally and considered control negative group (C-ve); G2, administered 0.1 mL/100 g BW corn oil (CrO); and G3 administered 100 mg/kg BW CCl4 orally for induction oxidative stress and considered control positive group (C+ve). The other four groups were initially administered 100 mg/kg BW CCl4 for oxidative stress induction and treated for two months as follows: G4, treated orally by 100 mg/kg BW of date methanolic extract (DME); G5, treated orally by 150 mg/kg BW of leaves methanolic extract (LME); G6, treated by 250 mg/kg BW date oily extract (DOE); while G7, treated by 250 mg/kg BW leaves oily extract (LOE). At the end of two months experiment, the animals were scarified, and their femurs removed for cytogenetic examination. results showed that only CCl4 group had significant increase (P< 0.05) in mitotic index compared to negative control and all treated groups. CCl4 group also recorded clear increasing in percentage of chromosome aberrations including diverse types in bone marrow cell compared to rat groups treated by date and leaves methanolic and oily extracts and negative control groups. It could be concluded that the treatment with different palm date and leaves extracts failed to overcome the genotoxic effect of CCl4 completely. Possibly, because CCl4 dosed for extended period (2 months) might cause extensive cell and genetic damages could be opposed antioxidants presented in the different palm extracts recording some but lesser chromosomal aberration compared to that CCl4 treated group.

Screening for toxicological and anti-diabetic potential of n-hexane extract ofTapinanthus bangwensisleaves

Health forecasters predict that cases of diabetes will double in 2030; hence proactive action is required to salvage this problem. Thus, this study was undertaken to evaluate the toxicological and anti-diabetic potential of n-hexane extract of T. bangwensis leaves on α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity. The phytochemical screening, antioxidant activity as well as the inhibitory effect of the plant extract was determined by UV-spectrophotometry method while brine shrimp and Allium cepa methods were used for the toxicity study. Preliminary phytochemical screening detected the presence of flavonoid, phenol, tannin, alkaloid and cardiac glycoside whereas phlobatanin, steroid, terpenoid and saponin were absent. The result also showed that flavonoid concentration was the highest compared to others. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine (DPPH) and nitric oxide (NO) results showed that the plant extract exhibited significant antioxidant activity particularly at the highest concentration (100 µg/ml). Brine shrimp lethality result showed that the highest mortality rate of nauplii and median inhibition concentration (IC50) are 97% and 7.46 ± 0.33 µg/ml respectively. Furthermore, the results also revealed that mitotic index, root growth length and mitotic division (cytotoxicity indicators) decreased as concentration increases. Finally, the results showed that the plant extract exhibited significant inhibitory effect on α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities at 100 µg/ml; nevertheless, the effect was higher on α-amylase than α-glucosidase activity. In summary, the significant antioxidant and inhibitory effects may be attributed to the presence of the phytochemicals mentioned above. It can therefore be concluded that T. bangwensis leaves may demonstrate potent anti-diabetic effect.

Effects of commonly used food additives on haematological parameters of Wistar rats

This study was done to investigate the effects of common food additives such as sodium benzoate (SB) and ascorbic acid (AA) on haematological parameters of male Wistar rats. Forty-eight (48) male albino rats with an average weight of 105 g were grouped into twelve (n = 4) of Basal Control and other 11 groups orally administered 1 mg of SB, 10 mg of SB, 10 mg of AA, 0.2 mg of AA + 0.5 mg of SB, 0.2 mg of AA + 1 mg of SB, 0.2 mg of AA + 10 mg of SB, 0.2 mg of SB + 0.1 mg of AA, 0.2 mg of SB + 0.5 mg of AA, carbonated soft drinks (CSD)+ 0.1 mg of AA, CSD + 1 mg of AA and CSD + 10 mg of AA, respectively for 21 non-consecutive days. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected in EDTA anticoagulant tubes, haematological parameters were evaluated, and data were analyzed. There was a dose-dependent increase (p < 0.05) in White Blood Cell counts of SB treated rats compared with the control group. The lymphocyte exhibited significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the groups treated with 1mg SB and 10mg SB/kg bodyweight of 67 ± 2.96 and 58 ± 4.18%, respectively. The mean corpuscular haemoglobin showed no significant difference at 95% confidence interval. However, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, haematocrit and platelet were affected by an increase in the concentrations of SB. High SB concentrations increased the destruction of erythrocytes, which directly increased the catabolism of haemoglobin. However, AA administration mitigated the adverse effects of SB on the haematological parameters of the animal.

Evaluation of the biosafety potentials of methanol extracts/fractions of Tapinanthus bangwensis and Moringa oleifera leaves using Allium cepa model

Medicinal plants are considered two-edged swords. They are pharmacologically beneficial and sometimes toxic when abused. The health benefit of medicinal plant is due to their abundant phytochemical endowment. The present study is aimed at evaluating the biosafety potentials of methanol extracts/fractions of Tapinanthus bangwensis (T. bangwensis) and Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) leaves using Allium cepa (A. cepa) model. Cytotoxicity assay was carried out by A. epa model. The cytotoxicity parameters studied were number of dividing cells, percentage mitotic index (% MI), root tip growth length and chromosomal aberrations. The phytochemistry was determined by UV-spectrophotometry while 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazine (DPPH) and nitric oxide (NO) were used to assay antioxidant activity. The A. cepa assay result showed that the inhibitory effect of M. oleifera on root tip growth length was higher compared to T. bangwensis at 60-100mg/100ml concentrations. Decreased number of dividing cells and percentage mitotic index as concentrations increased observed indicate cytotoxicity however the acetone fractions were most cytotoxic. The frequently occurring chromosomal aberrations observed were vagrant, bridged, attached and sticky chromosomes while C-mitosis and binuclear chromosomes were not observed. Therefore cytotoxic effect was significant at 100mg/100ml. The phytochemical screening of methanol extracts/fractions of T. bangwensis and M. oleifera leaves revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, saponins and tannins however saponins were significantly abundant in both plants compared to others. Alkaloid content was found to be low but was not detected in the acetone fractions of the plants. Methanol extracts/fractions of the plants' leaves exhibited antioxidant activities but was more prominent in the ethylacetate fraction of T. bangwensis and acetone fraction of M. oleifera. In conclusion, administration at 100mg/100ml could be unsafe for the biological system.

Dual-Surfactant-Capped Ag Nanoparticles as a Highly Selective and Sensitive Colorimetric Sensor for Citrate Detection

A colorimetric sensor for the detection of citrate ions is reported here using dual-surfactant-capped Ag nanoparticles (dual-AgNP sensor). A mixture of cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide and a newly prepared gemini nonionic (GFEO) surfactant was used as a capping agent to synthesize dual-surfactant-capped Ag NPs for selective and sensitive citrate detection. The GFEO surfactant was designed with a specific chemical structure to provide strong binding with citrate for selective and sensitive detection. The developed dual-AgNP sensor showed extremely high selectivity toward citrate even in the presence of interfering species. Quantitative detection of citrate was carried out based on the changes in UV-vis absorbance and naked-eye readout. After optimization, the dual-AgNP sensor exhibited a visual detection limit of 25 μM and a low limit of detection of 4.05 nM with a UV-vis spectrometer. The developed citrate sensor performed well with a urine sample, with a high recovery of 99.6%. The prepared solution sensor was constructed on a paper-based analytical device.

Comparative assessment of sorbic and benzoic acid via express biotest

Negative physiological and biochemical effects of chronic and subchronic doses of benzoates and sorbates may pose a certain risk to human health. Identifying new biomarkers responsible for the body’s response to these compounds could provide significant details in determining the mechanism of their toxicity. To assess comparatively physiological, cytological, cytogenetic, and biochemical parameters in onion roots cells we used an Allium test. The roots were previously treated with sorbic and benzoic acids. The study recorded the dose-dependent toxic effect of these preservatives on the root mass growth. The EC50 values obtained for benzoic and sorbic acids (10 mg/L and 110 mg/L respectively) were significantly lower than the regulated concentrations prescribed by the standards for their content in certain types of food products. With an increase in concentrations of these acids, the mitotic index of meristematic cells decreased in experimental groups compared to control groups. The data obtained confirmed the necessity of estimating the mitotic index when choosing onion for the Allium test. The necessity resulted from the fact that low proliferative activity could cause false positive results. Sorbic and benzoic acids in concentrations below the corresponding EC50 increased the frequency of chromosomal aberrations in apical meristematic cells of the roots compared to control. Thus, benzoic and sorbic acids had reliable mitodepressive and genotoxic effects on the dividing cells of onion roots. The study explored the dynamics of lipid oxidation biomarker accumulation (malon dialdehyde, MDA) after exposure to benzoic and sorbic acids. The toxic effect of benzoic acid appeared not to be associated with oxidative damage to root cell lipids, whereas sorbic acid in concentrations from 20 to 200 mg/L resulted in a multiple increase in MDA concentration in the test samples compared to control. At the same time, lipid peroxidation showed a higher level of sensitivity compared to other indicators of this test. Further, the data obtained on the toxic influence of sorbic and benzoic acids can be used in express methods to assess food and ecological security of these acids.

Genotoxic effect of two commonly used food dyes metanil yellow and carmoisine using Allium cepa L. as indicator

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Genotoxic assay via Allium cepa was carried out with metanil yellow and carmoisine.

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They are azo dyes used in food and pharmaceutical products as coloring agents.

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Allium cepa is considered sensitive indicator of environmental chemicals.

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Result indicated genotoxic and cytotoxic effects by metanil yellow and carmoisine.

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The mutagenic and toxic effects increased with time of treatment and concentration.

Food dyes are important component of food in this fast life. Metanil yellow and carmoisine are two azo dyes which are being used at an alarming rate for increasing visual appearance and consumer validity of food. There is a lot of controversy regarding the genotoxicity of these two dyes. In the present study genotoxicity of two food dyes metanil yellow and carmoisine was evaluated using Allium cepa as indicator. The effect of these two azo dyes was determined at concentration of 0.25 %, 0.50 %, 0.75 % and 1.0 % for 24 h and 48 h of exposure period using root meristematic cells of Allium cepa. Some genotoxicity parameters like mitotic indices and chromosomal aberrations were studied. It was found that both metanil yellow and carmoisine caused a significant reduction in mitotic index and also produce different kinds of chromosomal aberrations mostly at higher concentration and longer exposure period. The different kinds of aberrations that were observed in meristematic cells after treatment with both metanil yellow and carmoisine are disorientation at metaphase, metaphase stickiness, anaphase stickiness, anaphase bridge, c-mitosis and chromosome breaks. The genotoxicity of carmoisine was found very high as compared to metanil yellow at all concentrations and exposure periods. Thus it was concluded from the present study that carmoisine and metanil yellow have genotoxic activities and should be taken in very control and limited doses.

Evaluation of the Cytotoxicity and Apoptotic Induction in Human Liver Cell Lines Exposed to Three Food Additives

BACKGROUND

Rapid lifestyle, especially among people living in urban areas, has led to increasing reliance on the processed food market. Unfortunately, harmful effects caused by the excessive use of food additives in such type of industry are often neglected.

OBJECTIVE

This proposal investigates in vitro cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of three food preservatives commonly consumed in daily meals; sodium sulphite, boric acid, and benzoic acid.

METHODS

The effect of the three preservatives on cell viability was tested on two different cell lines; normal liver cell line THLE2 and human hepatocellular carcinoma cancer cell line HepG2 using MTT assay. Cell cycle arrest was measured using flow cytometry by propidium iodide. Measurement of expression levels of two central genes, p53 and bcl-2 that play key roles in cell cycle and apoptosis was carried out in HepG2 cells using real time-PCR.

RESULTS

Although the effect was more significantly realized in the HepG2 cell line, the viability of both cell lines was decreased by all of the three tested compounds. Flow cytometric analysis of HepG2 cells treated with sodium sulphite, boric acid, and benzoic acid has revealed an increase in G2/M phase cell cycle arrest. In Sodium sulphite and boric acid-treated cells, expression levels of p53 were up-regulated, while that of the Bcl2 was significantly down-regulated. On the other hand, Benzoic acid has shown an anti-apoptotic feature based on the increased expression levels of Bcl-2 in treated cells.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, all of the tested compounds have decreased the cell line viability and induced both cell cycle arrest and apoptotic events indicating their high potential of being cytotoxic and genotoxic materials.

Allium cepa assay based comparative study of selected vegetables and the chromosomal aberrations due to heavy metal accumulation

Irrigation of industrial effluents may end in the bioaccumulation of various toxic metals and consequent genetic changes in contaminated food crops. To test this hypothesis and extent of genetic modifications, Allium cepa test was performed to food crops viz. tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum) and chili (Capsicum annum) as Allium cepa test is a useful tool to assess genetic variations in plants. Prior to A. cepa test, the plants were exposed to various metal concentrations 125–1000 mg/L in the synthetic wastewater. The extracts of harvested plants were used to grow the root of A. cepa following its standard method. The root tips were fixed, stained and examined under compound microscope (almost 300–400 dividing cells) to check the extent of chromosomal variations during various stages of mitosis. The results revealed various chromosomal abnormalities including laggards, stickiness, vagrant chromosomes, binucleated cells, nuclear lesions, giant cells and c-mitosis at different level of treatment. On the whole, aberrations were increasing with the increasing doses along the positive control. In comparison, chili crop had higher level of aberrations depicting the higher chromosomal changes. Lower mitotic index (MI) with increasing level of doses was also describing the hampered cell division due to increased metal stress. The study is showing that the cell division was ceased with increasing metal stress thus increasing the rate of cell aberrations.

ESR investigation on the potential use of potassium citrate as a dosimeter material

Un-irradiated potassium citrate exhibited a weak ESR singlet at g = 2.0045 ± 0.0003 with peak-to-peak line-width of ΔH_pp = 0.16 mT. However, multi-resonance signals spreading over a magnetic field range of ~5 mT were observed in gamma irradiated potassium citrate. A linear function of absorbed radiation dose was found to describe well the dose-response curves of the resonance signals A, B and C in a dose range of 5-5000 Gy. Room temperature fading study showed that radiation-induced radicals in potassium citrate are highly stable but less stable when exposed to the sunlight. Three different radical species were found to describe well experimental room temperature ESR spectrum of irradiated potassium citrate. The resonance signal B can be used in measuring the accidental radiation doses and the radiation doses used in food industry, at least up to a dose of 5 kGy. Further studies were needed in order to increase the sensitivity of potassium citrate at low radiation doses.

Phytotoxicity, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity evaluation of organic and inorganic pollutants rich tannery wastewater from a Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) in Unnao district, India using Vigna radiata and Allium cepa

The leather industry is a major source of environmental pollution in India. The wastewater generated by leather industries contains very high pollution parameters due to the presence of a complex mixture of organic and inorganic pollutants even after the treatment at a Common Effluent Treatment Plant (CETP) and disturbs the ecological flora and fauna. The nature, characteristics and toxicity of CETP treated wastewater is yet to be fully elucidated. Thus, this study aims to characterize and evaluate the toxicity of CETP treated tannery wastewater collected from the Unnao district of Uttar Pradesh, India. In addition to measuring the physico-chemical parameters, the residual organic pollutants was identified by GC-MS analysis and phytotoxicity, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the treated wastewater was evaluated using Vigna radiata L. and Allium cepa L. Results showed that the treated wastewater contained very high pollution parameters (TDS 3850 mg/L, BOD 680 mg/L, COD-1300 mg/L). GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of various types of residual organic pollutants including benzoic acid, 3-[4^,-(T-butyl) Phenyl] furan-2-5-dione, benzeneacetamide, resorcinol, dibutyl phthalate, and benzene-1,2,4-triol. Further, toxicological studies showed the phytotoxic nature of the wastewater as it inhibited seed germination in V. radiata L. and root growth of A. cepa. Genotoxicity was evidenced in the root tip cell of A. cepa where chromosomal aberrations (stickiness, chromosome loss, C-mitosis, and vagrant chromosome) and nuclear abnormalities like micronucleated and binucleated cells were observed. Thus, results suggested that it is not safe to discharge these wastewater into the environment.

Cytological Effects of Bleaching Agent (Quneex) on Plant Cells and Plant DNA

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

There have been a number of reported drawbacks and efficacy issues regarding the use of bleaching agents in the plant industry. This study was conducted to determine the cytological effects of the bleaching agent (Quneex) on the plant cells and plant DNA using the Allium cepa assay.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

It was subjected sixteen root meristems of A. cepa to different concentrations of the bleaching agent (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5%) with different periods of time (6, 12 and 24 h). Recovery was done for 6, 12 and 24 h after exposure.

RESULTS

The mitotic index significantly decreased with time and also decreased with increase in the concentration of the bleaching agent. Abnormal chromosomal changes reflecting mutagenesis including stickiness, laggards, bridges, C-metaphase, star-metaphase, binucleation, polyploidy, disturbance and multinucleation were observed in the different concentrations and periods of time. After recovery, a slow increase in the mitotic index was observed. All treatments with or without recovery for 12 and 24 h resulted in reduction in the amount of DNA.

CONCLUSION

Bleaching agents similar to Quneex containing sodium hypochlorite have mutagenic properties that can be potentially hazardous to the environment and also to humans. Thus, there is a need to regulate the use and disposal of such chemicals into the environment particularly to the sewers, to prevent contamination of potable water, plant and biodiverse aquatic animals.

Chromosomal and nuclear alterations in root tip cells of allium cepa L. Induced by alprazolam

Introduction:

Alprazolam is a triazolobenzodiazepine used in panic disorders and other anxiety states. Target organ of Alprazolam is CNS, causing depression of respiration and consciousness.

Aim:

This study aimed to estimate the genotoxic potential of Alprazolam using Allium cepa test.

Methods:

Allium cepa is one of the most suitable plants for detecting different types of xenobiotics. The test enables the assessment of different genetic endpoints making possible damage to the DNA of humans to be predicted.

Results:

Alprazolam induced chromosomal (anaphase bridges, breaks, lagging and stickiness, abnormal spiralisation, multipolarity and polyploidy) and cytological aberrations, especially nuclear alterations (nuclear buds, fragmented nucleus and apoptotic bodies, cells without nucleus, binucleated and micronucleated cells), morphological alterations in shape and size of cells, spindle disturbance and polar deviation in root tip meristem cells of Allium cepa at all tested concentrations. Alprazolam also caused significant inhibition of mitotic index in these cells.

Conclusion:

These changes in cells are indicators of genotoxic potential of Alprazolam suggesting a need for further in vitro studies on animal and human lymphocytes as well as in vivo studies.

Effects of the food additives sodium acid pyrophosphate, sodium acetate, and citric acid on hemato-immunological pathological biomarkers in rats: Relation to PPAR-α, PPAR-γ and tnfα signaling pathway

The food additives sodium acid pyrophosphate (SAPP), sodium acetate (SA), and citric acid (CA) were evaluated for their hemato-immunotoxic effects. Forty adult Sprague-Dawley rats were distributed into four groups and were orally administered water, SAPP (12.6 mg/kg), CA (180 mg/kg), or SA (13.5 mg /kg) daily for 90 days. Erythrogram and leukogram profiles were evaluated. The levels of lysozyme, nitric oxide, immunoglobulin, and phagocytic activity were measured. Histologic and immunohistochemical evaluations of splenic tissues were performed. Changes in the mRNA expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α and γ (PPAR-α and PPAR-γ), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) genes were assessed. A significant leukopenic condition was observed with SAPP, while CA induced marked leukocytosis, and SA showed a lymphocytosis condition. Both the innate and humoral parameters were significantly depressed. Various pathological lesions were observed, including diffuse hyperplasia of the red pulp, depletion of the white pulp, and capsular and parenchymal fibrosis. A marked decrease in CD3 T-lymphocyte and CD20 B-lymphocyte immunolabeling in rats treated with SAPP and SA was evident. Marked downregulation of PPAR-α and PPAR-γ together with upregulation of TNF-α was recorded. These results indicate that high doses of SAPP, SA and CA exert hematotoxic and immunotoxic effects with long-term exposure.

Toxic effect of commercial detergents on organisms from different trophic levels

The toxic effects of four powder detergents: two laundry detergents (A and B), one household detergent (C), one dishwashing detergent (D), and the surfactant alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) were analyzed in this study on organisms from different trophic levels (microalgae, cladocerans, ostracods, amphipods, macrophytes, and fish). LC₅₀ and EC₅₀ values obtained in the toxicity bioassays varied between 0.019 and 116.9 mg L^-1. The sensitivity of the organisms to the detergents was (from most sensitive to least sensitive) Ostracods > microalgae > amphipods > cladocerans > fishes > macrophytes. The toxicity of the commercial products (from most toxic to least toxic) was LAS > D (dishwashing detergent) > A (laundry detergent) > B (laundry detergent) > C (household detergent). When comparing the sensitivity of organisms that inhabit temperate zones (T = 18 °C) to those that are found in tropical zones (T > 25 °C), it was clear that the species that inhabit the tropics are more sensitive to detergents.

Monitoring of morphotoxic, cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of mancozeb using Allium assay

The present experiment was designed to monitor the morphotoxic, cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of Mancozeb (fungicide) in non-target plants using bulbs of Allium cepa. Mancozeb is classified as a contact fungicide and is registered for use on a variety of crop plants. In the present monitoring, Allium cepa bulbs were exposed to different concentrations of mancozeb viz., 10, 30, 50, 70, 90, 110, 130 and 150 ppm for 24 and 48 h. The potential morphotoxic and cytotoxic effects of mancozeb were examined by determining the average root number, average root length, mitotic index, relative abnormality rate (%) and frequency of abnormalities (%). A progressive significant concentration and time dependent inhibition of the average root number, average root length indicated the morphotoxic nature. The cytotoxic effect was significantly increased for 48 h treatment as compared to 24 h treatment time, by reducing the mitotic index of meristematic cells. The results indicated an indirect genotoxic effect by inducing different types of chromosomal abnormalities, likely sticky, disoriented and fragmented chromosomes. Thus indicating that the investigated fungicide have genotoxic potential due to abnormal DNA condensation and chromosome coiling by spindle inactivation. The observations of cyto and genotoxic effects suggest that the fungicide mancozeb is clastogenic agent. Thus the different concentrations used in the field could be harmful for the end-receptors of food-chain and needs constant monitoring and management for the better development of crop plants.

All aspect of toxic effect of brilliant blue and sunset yellow in Allium cepa roots

Substances added to food are considerable for survival and are the oldest technologies used in preservation, sweetening and coloring. This work was conducted to evaluate the toxicity of the food additives sunset yellow (SY) and brilliant blue (BB) on Allium cepa root meristematic cells. Control and treatment groups were created from germinated roots. Group 1 (control group) did not receive chemicals. Group 2 (SY or BB-treatment group), received increasing doses of SY (25, 50, 100 and 500 ppm) and BB (100, 200, 400 and 500 ppm) with time periods of 24, 48 and 72 h. After different treatment periods, the roots were obtained from all groups and EC₅₀ concentrations, cell death, chromosome aberrations, mitotic index were observed by a light microscopy. Changing antioxidant capacity of roots was determined by FRAP and TEAC assay. Also, DNA damage was measured by comet assay and RAPD-PCR technique. Approximately 50 and 200 ppm were accepted as EC₅₀ value for SY and BB, respectively. Chromosome aberration values were obtained with increasing concentrations and longer treatment times such as chromosome bridge, C-mitosis, micronucleus, chromosome mis-segregation in both groups. Increasing exposure doses of SY and BB caused decreasing mitotic index values at 72 h. FRAP and TEAC assay showed that antioxidant capacity of roots was decreased by increasing concentrations of SY and BB. The tail DNA% and tail length significantly increased for all exposure times when compared to the control group. 50 and 200 ppm of SY and BB caused a genotoxic effect on genetic material at 72 h according to RAPD-PCR. Increasing the doses of SY and BB resulted in increased toxicity to all studied parameters of A. cepa. In conclusion, the SY and BB tested in this study have cytotoxic and mutagenic potential. Furthermore, SY is more harmful than BB for use in the A. cepa root meristematic cells.

Toxicity of synthetic flavorings, nature identical and artificial, to hematopoietic tissue cells of rodents

Abstract The goal of this study was to analyze cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and mutagenicity to bone marrow cells of mice of nature identical synthetic flavorings, passion fruit and strawberry, and artificial synthetic flavorings, vanilla, chocolate, tutti-frutti and cookie, at doses 0.5; 1.0; 2.0; 5.0 and 10.0 mL/kg. The additives were given to the animals by gavage in a single daily application for seven days. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post Tukey’s post hoc test, p <0.05. Animals treated with 2.0; 5.0 and 10.0 mL/Kg of flavorings chocolate, strawberry and cookie, and 5.0 and 10.0 mL/Kg of flavorings vanilla and passion fruit died on the fifth and sixth day of the experiment, respectively. The doses 0.5 and 1.0 mL/Kg of the six additives significantly reduced erythropoiesis in the examined tissue. Also, treatments 0.5 and 1.0 mL/Kg of chocolate, and 1.0 mL/Kg of strawberry and biscuit induced the formation of micronuclei in the bone marrow erythrocytes, at a significant frequency. Therefore, under the study conditions, the six microingredients analyzed were cytotoxic and genotoxic, and additives strawberry, chocolate and cookie were also mutagenic in at least one of the evaluated doses.

Food additives: Sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, azorubine, and tartrazine modify the expression of NFκB, GADD45α, and MAPK8 genes

It has been reported that some of the food additives may cause sensitization, inflammation of tissues, and potentially risk factors in the development of several chronic diseases. Thus, we hypothesized that expressions of common inflammatory molecules - known to be involved in the development of various inflammatory conditions and cancers - are affected by these food additives. We investigated the effects of commonly used food preservatives and artificial food colorants based on the expressions of NFκB, GADD45α, and MAPK8 (JNK1) from the tissues of liver. RNA was isolated based on Trizol protocol and the activation levels were compared between the treated and the control groups. Tartrazine alone could elicit effects on the expressions of NFκB (p = 0.013) and MAPK8 (p = 0.022). Azorubine also resulted in apoptosis according to MAPK8 expression (p = 0.009). Preservatives were anti-apoptotic in high dose. Sodium benzoate (from low to high doses) dose-dependently silenced MAPK8 expression (p = 0.004 to p = 0.002). Addition of the two preservatives together elicited significantly greater expression of MAPK8 at half-fold dose (p = 0.002) and at fivefold dose (p = 0.008). This study suggests that some of the food preservatives and colorants can contribute to the activation of inflammatory pathways.

Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of Guaribas river water (Piauí, Brazil), influenced by anthropogenic action

In general, tropical rivers have a great impact on human activities. Bioaccumulation of toxins is a worldwide problem nowadays and has been, historically, overlooked by the supervisory authorities. This study evaluated cytogenotoxic effects of Guaribas river (a Brazilian river) water during dry and rainy seasons of 2014 by using the Allium cepa test system. The toxicogenetic variables, including root growth, mitotic index, and chromosomal aberrations, were analyzed in meristematic cells of A. cepa exposed to water samples taken from the up-, within, and downstream of the city Picos (state: Piauí). The physical-chemical parameters were also analyzed to explain water quality and possible anthropogenic action. Additionally, the presence of heavy metals was also analyzed to explain water quality and possible damaging effects on eukaryotic cells. The results suggest that the river water exerted cytotoxic, mutagenic, and genotoxic effects, regardless of the seasons. In addition, Guaribas river presented physico-chemical values outside the Brazilian laws, which can be a characteristic of human pollution (domestic sewage, industrial, and local agriculture). The genetic damage was positively correlated with higher levels of heavy metals. The pollution of the Guaribas river water may link to the chemical contamination, including the action of heavy metals and their impacts on genetic instability in the aquatic ecosystem. In conclusion, necessary steps should be taken into account for further toxicogenetic studies of the Guaribas river water, as it has an influence in human health of the same region of Brazil.