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Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Synthesis and Assay of Vibrio Quorum Sensing Inhibitors

Synthesis and Assay of Vibrio Quorum Sensing Inhibitors

Published on: May 31, 2024

In vitro toxicological properties of thymoquinone.

M Khader¹, N Bresgen, P M Eckl

¹Division of Genetics, Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstrasse 34, A-5020 Salzburg, Austria.

Food and Chemical Toxicology : an International Journal Published for the British Industrial Biological Research Association

|November 18, 2008

Summary

Thymoquinone, a compound from Nigella sativa, shows significant cytotoxic and genotoxic effects in rat liver cells. These findings challenge previous notions of its protective properties, suggesting potential toxicity at higher concentrations.

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Last Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Synthesis and Assay of Vibrio Quorum Sensing Inhibitors

Synthesis and Assay of Vibrio Quorum Sensing Inhibitors

Published on: May 31, 2024

Area of Science:

Pharmacology
Toxicology
Hepatology

Background:

Nigella sativa and its constituent thymoquinone are traditionally used for inflammation, liver disorders, and arthritis.
Experimental studies suggest antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepato-protective properties of thymoquinone.
Further toxicological evaluation in a cellular system is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of thymoquinone in primary rat hepatocyte cultures.
To determine the concentration-dependent effects of thymoquinone on cell viability and DNA integrity.

Main Methods:

Primary rat hepatocytes were treated with varying concentrations of thymoquinone.
Cytotoxicity was assessed by measuring mitotic indices, apoptosis, and necrosis rates.
Genotoxicity was evaluated by analyzing chromosomal aberrations and micronucleated cells.

Main Results:

Thymoquinone exhibited concentration-dependent cytotoxic effects, including anti-proliferative activity at 20 microM and acute cytotoxicity at higher concentrations.
Significant increases in necrotic cell rates were observed between 2.5 and 20 microM.
Genotoxicity was induced at concentrations greater than or equal to 1.25 microM.
These results contradict previous reports of antioxidant and anti-clastogenic effects.

Conclusions:

Thymoquinone demonstrates significant cyto- and genotoxic effects in rat hepatocytes, challenging its purported protective roles.
The compound may be metabolized into reactive species, leading to oxidative stress, glutathione depletion, and DNA damage.
These findings highlight potential risks associated with high thymoquinone concentrations and warrant further investigation.