Micronucleus and other nuclear abnormalities in exfoliated cells of buccal mucosa of bats at different trophic levels

The micronucleus (MN) test in exfoliated cells of the buccal mucosa is a relatively non-invasive method for the monitoring of populations exposed to genotoxic risks. In this study, the MN test was used as bats conservation strategy. The highest frequencies of micronuclei were recorded in the frugivorous bats sampled in both urban and agricultural environments, as well as in insectivorous bats from the urban zone. Female of this group (insectivorous) presented higher frequency of MN when compared to males. Other guilds showed no difference in gender assessments in each environment, as well as in the correlation between weight and MN. In addition to micronuclei, a number of other types of nuclear abnormality were recorded, including binucleated cells and karyolysis in the frugivores from the agricultural environment. Binucleated cells were also relatively common in urban frugivores and insectivores, and karyolysis was common in insectivores. Nectarivorous bats did not exhibit a significant increase in any type of nuclear abnormality in either environment. In summary, study results indicate that buccal mucosa of bats is a sensitive site for detecting micronuclei and other nuclear abnormalities. However, more research is needed to indicate whether xenobiotic agents are affecting this cellular integrity.