Growth Inhibition and Pro-apoptotic Action of Eleusine indica (L) Gaertn Extracts in Allium test

Background: E. indica is a gramineae largely used in Brazilian traditional medicine for treatment of respiratory diseases. Previous research work has shown this plant to have glicoflavonoids constituents.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out during four months in 2014 in the Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Department of Pharmacy, Lutheran University of Brazil (CEULJI/ULBRA), Ji-Paraná, Rondônia, Brazil.

Aims: This study aimed to determine possible mutagenicity and/or cytotoxicity activity of E. indica, using the Allium test to investigate root growth, mitotic index and micronuclei formation.

Methodology: We applied the Allium test to analyze the effects of E. indica compounds on genetic material. The plant aerial parts were dried, pulverized and prepared as aqueous extract. The experiment consisted in 5 assays: E. indica extracts inconcentrations of 25%, 50%, and100%; positive control (CuSO4); and negative control (distilled water). Each assay was performed with 10 repetitions.

Results: Initial results showed inhibition of meristems growth and stable mitotic index. Differential analysis indicated influence in cell division process with a significant number of cells in metaphase that did not progress to the next mitotic cycle stage, and no significant presence of micronuclei.

Conclusion: Our results strongly suggest the plant having cytotoxic compounds with microtubule affinity interaction without mutagenicity activity.