Assessment of Cytogenotoxic Potential of Aqueous Fruit Extracts of Pistacia lentiscus L. Using the Allium cepa Bioassay

Abstract

Libya is characterized by a rich diversity of medicinal plants, among which Pistacia lentiscus L. is of considerable pharmacological importance due to its content of bioactive compounds with reported sedative and therapeutic properties. The present study aimed to evaluate the cytological effects of aqueous extracts prepared from fresh fruits of P. lentiscus at different concentrations (5, 10, 20, and 40g/200 ml) on the root meristem cells of Allium cepa. The roots were exposed to the extracts for 3, 6, 12, and 24h, while distilled water served as the control. Statistical analysis using two-way ANOVA revealed a highly significant interaction between extract concentration and exposure duration on the mitotic index (MI). Treatments with 10 g and 20g concentrations caused a significant reduction in the MI compared to the control, with the greatest decrease observed after 24 h of exposure. Analysis of mitotic abnormalities showed that the 5 g treatment differed significantly from the 20 g and 40 g concentrations at 24 h. Chromosomal stickiness at metaphase was the most frequently observed abnormality, suggesting possible disruption of proteins involved in chromatin organization. These findings demonstrate that aqueous extracts of fresh P. lentiscus fruits can interfere with normal mitotic activity and induce chromosomal abnormalities in A. cepa cells. Therefore, careful regulation of extract concentration and exposure duration is recommended to minimize potential cytotoxic and genotoxic effects.