Genotoxic and cytotoxic effect of chitinase against Corcyra cephalonica larvae under laboratory conditions

Due to the deleterious effect of chemical pesticides on human and environment, accelerated researchers to find a novel environmental friendly alternatives. Chitinase enzyme is a promising biocontrol agent against various crop pests including insects, nematodes and pathogenic fungi. In this context, here we elucidate the molecular toxicity of chitinase against the crop pest Corcyra cephalonica . Genotoxic effects of chitinase in C. cephalonica was evaluated and analyzed by estimation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), Flow cytometry, DNA fragmentation and Comet assay. The results revealed that chitinase is able to induce oxidative stress followed by ROS generation (33,101.63 AU at the dose of 500 ppm), DNA damage and apoptosis (in live cell 70.09% and early apoptotic 28.07%). Moreover, by off target effects of chitinase on murine cell lines (L929) by cell viability method. The assay showed that chitinase doesn’t exhibit negative effects in L929 cells. Overall the present study conclude that chitinase cause genotoxic effects in the larvae of C. cephalonica . Therefore, chitinase can be utilized as a potent biocontrol agent against various crop pests.