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Cytogenetic activity of some common antioxidants and their interaction with x-rays
Abstract:
Experiments were designed to investigate the cytogenetic activity of some commonly used phenolic antioxidants, namely BHA, BHT, BMP and PG, all used widely to preserve and stablize food products rich in fats and oils. Barley and onion were used as test systems. The treatments reduced seed germination and induced a significant amount of seedling injury. Only PMP treatments produced a moderate amount of chromosomal aberrations while others failed to do so. Being strong antioxidants it was expected that these compounds would reduce the cytogenetic damage caused by the radiations. Contrary to expectations, however, a significant increase was observed in the radiation damage measured as seed and seedling lethality and chromosomal aberrations. Chemical post-treatments also increased the radiation damage. The damage was, however, reduced with ATP post-irradiation treatment.
Insights
Phenolic antioxidants like BHA, BHT, BMP, and PG, commonly used in food, unexpectedly increased radiation damage in barley and onion test systems. However, ATP post-treatment mitigated this radiation-induced damage.
Area of Science:
- Food science and toxicology
- Plant science
- Genetics
Background:
- Phenolic antioxidants such as Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), Butylated hydroxyanisole (BMP), and Propyl gallate (PG) are widely used as food preservatives.
- Their cytogenetic effects, especially in conjunction with radiation, are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cytogenetic activity of common phenolic antioxidants (BHA, BHT, BMP, PG).
- To determine the impact of these antioxidants on radiation-induced damage in plant test systems.
Main Methods:
- Experiments utilized barley and onion as test systems.
- Cytogenetic activity was assessed by observing effects on seed germination, seedling injury, and chromosomal aberrations.
- The influence of antioxidants as pre-treatments and post-treatments, alongside radiation, was evaluated.
Main Results:
- Antioxidant treatments alone reduced seed germination and caused seedling injury.
- Only Propyl gallate (PG) induced a moderate number of chromosomal aberrations; other antioxidants did not.
- Contrary to expectations, antioxidants significantly increased radiation-induced damage (seedling lethality, chromosomal aberrations).
- Chemical post-treatments exacerbated radiation damage, while Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) post-treatment reduced it.
Conclusions:
- Common phenolic antioxidants can unexpectedly enhance radiation-induced cytogenetic damage in plants.
- ATP demonstrates a protective effect against radiation damage, suggesting a potential mitigation strategy.