Investigating the toxicity of lemongrass oil in a Drosophila melanogaster model
Noor Fathima, J. R. Kumar, M. K. Ramkrishna, Nagalambika PrasadCONTEXT:
Lemongrass oil (LEO), derived from
AIMS:
This study evaluates the oxidative stress and neurotoxic effects of LEO in
SETTINGS AND DESIGN:
The study was conducted in a controlled laboratory setting using an experimental design involving LEO exposure at varying concentrations.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Adult flies and larvae were exposed to LEO (7, 9, and 10 mg/L) for 5 days. Survival assays assessed mortality rates, whereas locomotor performance was evaluated using negative geotaxis and larval behavioral assays. Biochemical assays measured oxidative stress markers, including hydroperoxides, protein carbonyls, lipid peroxidation, and total thiols. Antioxidant defense enzyme activity (catalase and superoxide dismutase) and acetylcholinesterase levels were analyzed. Mitochondrial function was assessed through succinate dehydrogenase activity and MTT reduction.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED:
Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance followed by
RESULTS AND CONCLUSION:
LEO exposure resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in fly viability, impaired locomotion, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cholinergic impairment. These findings indicate the cytotoxic and neurotoxic potential of LEO, paving the way for further exploration in this domain into its safety for human and environmental applications.