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Pan masala--a genotoxic menace
R K Patel1, R J Jaju, S R Bakshi
1Cell Biology Division, Gujarat Cancer Society, Ahmedabad, India.
Abstract:
Cytogenetic markers such as chromosome aberration (CA), sister-chromatid exchange (SCE) and micronucleated cells (MNC) were used to assess the genotoxic potential of dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) extract of pan masala with and without tobacco (PM-T and PM). Using in vitro short-term assays, the extracts were tested in the presence or absence of metabolic activation. In cultures without metabolic activation the extracts were found to increase the frequency of all the three parameters tested significantly, however those with activation elicited a weak response, implying that pan masalas contain solvent (DMSO)-soluble direct-acting mutagen.
Insights
Pan masala extracts, with and without tobacco, showed genotoxic potential by increasing chromosome aberrations and other markers. These findings suggest pan masala contains direct-acting mutagens, even without metabolic activation.
Area of Science:
- Genotoxicology
- Environmental Health
- Chemical Mutagenesis
Background:
- Pan masala is a common oral தயாரிப்பு in South Asia, often containing tobacco.
- Previous studies have raised concerns about the health risks associated with pan masala consumption.
- Understanding the genotoxic potential of pan masala is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the genotoxic effects of dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) extracts of pan masala with (PM-T) and without (PM) tobacco.
- To assess the role of metabolic activation in the genotoxicity of pan masala extracts.
Main Methods:
- In vitro short-term assays were employed to assess genotoxicity.
- Cytogenetic markers including chromosome aberration (CA), sister-chromatid exchange (SCE), and micronucleated cells (MNC) were analyzed.
- Tests were conducted in the presence and absence of metabolic activation.
Main Results:
- Pan masala extracts (PM-T and PM) significantly increased the frequency of CA, SCE, and MNC in cultures without metabolic activation.
- Metabolic activation resulted in a weak genotoxic response, indicating direct-acting mutagenicity.
- The solvent (DMSO)-soluble components of pan masala are implicated as direct-acting mutagens.
Conclusions:
- Pan masala, both with and without tobacco, exhibits significant genotoxic potential.
- The genotoxicity appears to be mediated by direct-acting mutagens present in the extracts.
- These findings highlight the potential health risks associated with pan masala consumption due to its mutagenic properties.