Cytogenotoxicity of the aqueous extract of Parquetina nigrescens leaf using Allium cepa assay

Parquetina nigrescens has been used for decades in ethnomedicine for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and aphrodisiac properties. In this study, the cytotoxic and genotoxic effect of aqueous crude leaf extracts of P. nigrescens on the root meristematic cells of Allium cepa was examined. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) present in the plant extract were also identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The extract was prepared with tap water as is locally practised by many Nigerians. Onion bulbs were exposed to 1, 5, 10, 20, and 50% concentrations of the extract for the analysis of root growth inhibition and chromosomal aberration. Lead nitrate (10 ppm) and tap water were used as the positive and negative controls, respectively. The result showed cytotoxicity which was observed as statistically significant (p

Automated summary

This study examined the cytotoxic and genotoxic effect of Parquetina nigrescens leaf extract on onion root meristematic cells, and identified the volatile organic compounds present in the extract using GC-MS. The results showed inhibitory effects on root growth and chromosomal aberration.