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Decrease of the DXR-induced genotoxicity and nongenotoxic effects of Theobroma cacao revealed by micronucleus assay
M F G Boriollo1, V E Alves2, T A Silva2
1Laboratório de Genética Molecular, Departamento de Diagnóstico Oral, Faculdade de Odontologia de Piracicaba - FOP, Universidade Estadual de Campinas - UNICAMP, Av. Limeira, 901, Bairro Areião, CEP 13414-903, Piracicaba, SP, Brasil.
Abstract:
This study evaluated the genotoxicity of lyophilized glycolic extract of Theobroma cacao Linné seeds (TCL), using the micronucleus assay in bone marrow of mice. The interaction between TCL and doxorubicin (DXR) was also analyzed. Experimental groups were evaluated 24-48 h after treatment with N-Nitroso-N-ethylurea (NEU: 50 mg/kg), DXR (5 mg/kg), NaCl (145 mM), TCL (0.5-2 g/kg), and TCL (2 g/kg) in combination with DXR (antigenotoxic assays). Analysis of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCEs) showed no significant differences between all the treatment doses of TCL and NaCl control. Mice experimentally treated with DXR and NEU significantly induced MNPCEs. However, a significant reduction of MNPCEs was also observed when TCL was administered in combination with the chemotherapeutic agent DXR. The analysis of the PCE/NCE ratio revealed no significant differences between the NaCl control, all doses of TCL, and DXR. However, there were significant differences in the PCE/NCE ratio between positive NEU control and all other treatments. The PCE/NCE ratio observed after treatment with TCL and DXR showed significant differences and intermediate values to controls (NaCl and NEU). This study suggests absence of genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of TCL, regardless of dose, sex, and time. TCL reduced genotoxic effects induced by DXR, suggesting potential antigenotoxic effects.
Insights
Theobroma cacao Linné seeds extract (TCL) shows no genotoxicity or cytotoxicity in mice. This cacao extract also demonstrated antigenotoxic potential by reducing harmful effects from the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin (DXR).
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Natural Product Chemistry
Background:
- Theobroma cacao Linné seeds (TCL) are widely consumed and possess various bioactive compounds.
- Evaluating the safety and potential therapeutic interactions of natural extracts is crucial.
- Genotoxicity assessment is vital for understanding the safety profile of any substance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of a lyophilized glycolic extract of Theobroma cacao Linné seeds (TCL) in mice.
- To investigate the potential antigenotoxic effects of TCL when co-administered with doxorubicin (DXR).
Main Methods:
- Micronucleus assay in mouse bone marrow was employed to assess genotoxicity.
- Experimental groups were treated with N-Nitroso-N-ethylurea (NEU), DXR, NaCl, or varying doses of TCL.
- Antigenotoxic assays involved co-administration of TCL with DXR.
Main Results:
- TCL did not induce significant genotoxicity or cytotoxicity at any tested dose.
- DXR and NEU significantly increased micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCEs).
- TCL administration significantly reduced the MNPCEs induced by DXR, indicating an antigenotoxic effect.
Conclusions:
- Lyophilized glycolic extract of Theobroma cacao Linné seeds is devoid of genotoxic and cytotoxic properties.
- TCL exhibits potential antigenotoxic effects, mitigating the genotoxicity induced by doxorubicin.
- These findings support the safety of TCL and suggest its potential utility in combination therapies.
