Preventive effects of lupeol on DMBA induced DNA alkylation damage in mouse skin

Nidhi Nigam1, Sahdeo Prasad, Yogeshwer Shukla

  • 1Environmental Carcinogenesis Division, Industrial Toxicology Research Centre, P.O. Box 80, M.G. Marg, Lucknow 226001, India.

Insights

Lupeol, a compound from mango, significantly prevents DNA strand breaks caused by DMBA in mice. This nutraceutical shows dose- and time-dependent protective effects, suggesting potential for chemoprevention against genetic damage.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Molecular Biology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • DNA strand breaks are precursors to genetic disorders like cancer.
  • Lifestyle and diet influence genetic disease risk and prevention.
  • Plant-derived compounds and nutraceuticals show promise for chemoprevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the chemopreventive effects of lupeol against DMBA-induced DNA strand breaks in mouse skin.
  • To evaluate lupeol's efficacy as a topical agent for DNA damage prevention.

Main Methods:

  • Swiss albino mice were subjected to topical application of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA).
  • Lupeol was administered topically at varying doses (50-200 microg/mouse) before or after DMBA exposure.
  • DNA strand breaks were quantified using an alkaline unwinding assay at different time points (24-96 h).

Main Results:

  • Both pre- and post-treatment with lupeol demonstrated significant (p<0.001) preventive effects against DMBA-induced DNA strand breaks.
  • Prevention was observed in a dose- and time-dependent manner.
  • At 96 h, 200 microg/mouse of lupeol provided 56.05% prevention with pre-treatment and 43.26% with post-treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Lupeol exhibits significant chemopreventive properties against DMBA-induced DNA damage in mouse skin.
  • The findings support lupeol's potential as a topical agent for mitigating DNA alkylation damage.
  • Lupeol represents a promising nutraceutical for the prevention of chemically induced genetic damage.

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