Dose-Dependent Genoprotective Effects of Syzygium aromaticum (Clove) Extract Against Cyclophosphamide-Induced Chromosomal Damage and Micronucleus Formation in Swiss Albino Mice

Abstract

Cyclophosphamide (CP), a classical alkylating chemotherapeutic drug, has significant genotoxic effect but its use is restricted due to safety concerns. In the present study, we investigated a protective effect of Syzygium aromaticum (clove) ethanolic extract against CP-induced chromosomal damage in Swiss albino mice. Thirty male mice were distributed among five groups (n = 6): control, clove extract only (500 mg/kg), CP only (20 mg/kg intraperitoneally), and two post-treatment groups, receiving CP followed by oral clove extract at 400 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg for seven days. Chromosomal anomalies and micronucleus formation were assessed in bone marrow cells. CP treatment significantly increased structural chromosomal anomalies from 2.24 ± 1.01 (control) to 18.72 ± 0.05 (p < 0.05) and numerical aberrations from 3.62 ± 0.03 to 15.68 ± 0.02 (p < 0.05). Micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MnPCEs) increased 9.9-fold from 1.38 ± 0.02% to 13.63 ± 1.01% (p<0.05). Post-treatment with 400 mg/kg clove extract reduced structural and numerical aberrations to 10.94 ± 3.01 and 11.03 ± 0.03, respectively, representing 42% and 30% reductions in these aberrations. The 500 mg/kg dose achieved greater protection, reducing structural aberrations by 74% (4.92 ± 0.03) and numerical aberrations by 68% (5.03 ± 0.05), approaching control values. MnPCE frequency decreased to 8.84 ± 1.02% (35% reduction) and 4.98 ± 0.05% (63% reduction) at 400 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg doses, respectively. The dose-dependent genoprotective effects are attributed to the high eugenol content and phenolic compounds in cloves, which possess antioxidant properties. These findings suggest that clove extract may be a promising natural chemoprotective agent for mitigating CP-induced genotoxicity, warranting further investigation for potential clinical applications.