Genotoxicity of putrescine and its effects on gene expression in HepG2 cell line

Decomposing bodies release necro-leachate, a toxic fluid containing harmful compounds such as biogenic amines. This study investigated the genotoxic effects of the different concentrations (0.5, 1.4, 2.3, 3.2 mM) of bioamine putrescine on HepG2 cells using the comet assay, the micronucleus test, and gene expression analysis. The results were compared to negative control and indicated significant DNA damage in the comet assay highlighting tail DNA intensity that exhibited significant differences across all tested concentrations (0.5 = 192 %, 1.4 = 189 %, 2.3 = 208 %, 3.2 = 132 %). The micronucleus test revealed a significant increase in micronuclei for concentrations 0.5 (193 %), 1.4 (229 %), 2.3 (206 %); nuclear buds 3.2 (173 %); chromosomal bridges 3.2 (735 %). Furthermore, genes linked to oxidative stress and DNA damage exhibited statistically significant expression alterations. These findings suggest that putrescine has genotoxic potential in human-derived HepG2 cells, raising concerns about cemetery contaminants' occupational and environmental risks. This study is the first to assess putrescine's toxicity as an environmental pollutant, as previous research has mainly focused on its role in the food sector. These insights highlight the potential threats necro-leachate poses to environmental health, emphasizing the need for further research on cemetery pollution.