In vitro Cytogenetic Effects of the Euphorbia grisophylla Aerial Parts Aqueous Extract in Human Peripheral Lymphocytes

Abstract

The effects of the aqueous extract obtained from the aerial parts of Euphorbia grisophylla M.L.S.Khan, a herbaceous member of the Euphorbiaceae family, which is common in other parts of the world outside the Antarctic continent, on genotoxic, cytotoxic, and oxidative parameters were investigated. Experiments were carried out under short-term and in vitro conditions with sublethal concentrations of the test substance extract. According to the first results, the plant extract did not significantly affect the oxidative stress indicators in cell culture. Similarly, it increased the micronucleus ratio in lymphocytes insignificantly, but the concentration-effect relationship is significant in the 24-hour treatment. Again, the test substance did not induce an evident reversion-type mutation in the Ames test. However, the percentage of damaged cells in the Comet test and the genetic damage index increased significantly except for the lowest concentration. The cytotoxic effect observed in the context of the same pattern with these findings is remarkable. In conclusion, the slightly clastogenic and cytotoxic effect of Euphorbia grisophylla aqueous extract, not based on the oxidative attack, may provide a new projection for further research, like cancer therapy.