Determination of phytochemical composition, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and mutagenicity of the hydroethanolic extract of Dolichandra unguis-cati L. leaves in human leukocytes

In order to identify deleterious effects on cell integrity and genome, this study aimed to assess the phytochemical composition, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and mutagenicity of the hydroethanolic extract obtained from the leaves of Dolichandra unguis-cati (CELD). Validated methods were used to evaluate in vitro the genotoxicity (Alkaline Comet DNA), mutagenicity (Micronucleus Frequency), cytotoxicity (Cell Viability Assay), and phytochemical composition. The phytochemical analysis showed a major presence of phenolic acids, especially chlorogenic acid. The highest concentration of the extract (100 μg/mL) exerted a damaging effect on leukocytes viability in ∼20 %, similar to the positive control (hydrogen peroxide: ∼25 %). On the other hand, at all concentrations tested (1, 10 and 100 μg/mL) D. unguis-cati demonstrated absence of significant DNA damage or emergence of micronucleus, similar to the negative control (PBS buffer). The results indicated that the hydroethanolic extract of Dolichandra unguis-cati leaves is safe concerning genotoxic and mutagenic effects, while the cytotoxicity identified needs further investigation.