Evaluation of cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of Thymus vulgaris byuse of Allium cepa test

This research investigates the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of the aqueous extract of Thymusvulgaris leaves. To study the cytogenotoxic effects of this plant, the impact of differentconcentrations (۱۰ to ۵۰ mg/ml) of its aqueous extract on the root growth, mitotic index, and thetype and percentage of chromosomal abnormalities in the meristematic root cells of Allium cepawere examined. The results indicate that, overall, an increase in extract concentration led to astatistically significant decrease in root growth and mitotic index of meristematic cells in theonion roots. Moreover, all treatments except the negative control exhibited a percentage ofvarious chromosomal abnormalities; although the increase or decrease was not concentrationdependentin the level of chromosomal abnormalities observed. Among these chromosomalabnormalities, c-mitosis, chromosomal breakage, and micronuclei were notable. This studysuggests that the aqueous extract of Thymus vulgaris leaves may potentially have cytogenotoxiceffects, emphasizing the need for cautious consideration in its usage.

Keywords:

Cytotoxic , Genotoxic , Allium cepa , Thymus vulgaris , Mitotic index , Chromosomalaberration.