Effects of Ixora coccinea extract on Allium cepa meristematic cells.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Effects of the flower extract of Ixora coccinea Linn. On the meristematic cells of Allium Cepa
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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P.G. Latha, C.T. Chandralekha, G. Vilasini, K.R. Panikkar
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Effects of the flower extract of Ixora coccinea Linn. On the meristematic cells of Allium Cepa
Year: 1998
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study investigates the cytotoxic and mutagenic effects of the aqueous extract from the flowers of Ixora coccinea on the meristematic cells of onion (Allium cepa). Known for its traditional medicinal applications, the flowers are utilized in treating various ailments. However, the research highlights the serious cellular damage that can occur when using higher concentrations of the extract. An analysis of the extract revealed that with increasing concentration, there was a notable rise in abnormalities within the onion root tip cells, culminating in the complete arrest of cell division at the highest concentration tested.
Chromosomal Abnormalities Induced by Aqueous Extract
One of the major findings of the research was the significant induction of chromosomal abnormalities, particularly at metaphase and anaphase stages of cell division. The most common abnormalities included chromosomes that were disorganized and exhibited stickiness, leading to problems with anaphasic separation and the formation of sticky bridges. The study documented that as the concentration of the extract increased, so too did the frequency of stickiness and chromosome clumping, with the highest concentration (80 mg/ml) resulting in total mitotic arrest. The formation of micronuclei and variations in nuclear size further underscored the extract's cytotoxic effects. These results suggested that the extract may interfere with nucleic acid metabolism, adversely affecting protein synthesis and contributing to the observed chromosomal abnormalities.
Conclusion
The findings of this study indicate a clear link between the concentration of Ixora coccinea flower extract and the rate of chromosomal abnormalities in onion root tip cells. While the traditional medicinal uses of the flower are recognized, the research cautions against the potential cytotoxic effects associated with higher doses. The implications for further research are significant, as understanding the components responsible for the observed cellular damage could inform future studies in cancer chemotherapy and the safe application of herbal remedies in traditional medicine.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the study on Ixora coccinea?
The study evaluates the cytotoxic and mutagenic effects of the aqueous flower extract of Ixora coccinea on the meristematic cells of onion root tips.
What were the observed effects at varying concentrations of the extract?
As concentrations increased from 20 to 60 mg/ml, abnormalities rose. At 80 mg/ml, cell division was completely arrested, showing significant chromosome stickiness and other abnormalities.
What type of cellular abnormalities were induced by the extract?
The extract induced chromosome stickiness, unorganized metaphases, sticky anaphase bridges, and micronuclei formation, indicating significant disruptions in the mitotic process.
What potential applications do these findings suggest for Ixora coccinea?
The results point towards its potential use in cancer chemotherapy, highlighting the need for further studies on its cytotoxic effects and active components.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Effects of Ixora coccinea extract on Allium cepa meristematic cells.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Latta (Laṭṭā):
Latha is one of the authors of the study evaluating the cytotoxic and mutagenic effects of Ixora coccinea flower extract. Her contributions exemplify the integration of research and promotion of ethical medical practices. Furthermore, her findings highlight the interactions between traditional medicine and scientific inquiry.
2) Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy encompasses the use of drugs to treat cancer, targeting rapidly dividing cells. The study suggests that aqueous extracts of Ixora coccinea may exhibit antitumor properties, indicating its potential as an alternative or complementary treatment. Understanding its molecular effects can enhance the efficacy of cancer therapies.
3) Cancer:
Cancer is a disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and division. The research highlights the importance of examining plant extracts for their potential anticancer effects. Such studies may lead to new therapeutic options, reflecting the ongoing quest for effective cancer treatments within both traditional and modern medicine.
4) Water:
Water serves as the solvent in the conductivity of the aqueous flower extracts used in the study. As a crucial component in biological processes, including cell division, water facilitates the extraction of phytochemicals. Examining the effects of different concentrations highlights the importance of solvent properties in phytochemical research.
5) Dysmenorrhea (Dysmenorrhoea):
Dysmenorrhoea refers to painful menstrual periods. The traditional medicinal use of Ixora coccinea flowers for treating dysmenorrhoea underscores the cultural practices surrounding herbal remedies. The study parallels these applications by evaluating the extract's cellular effects, bridging traditional and scientific understandings of health and wellness.
6) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds derived from plants, often possessing therapeutic properties. The study highlights the phytochemical constituents of Ixora coccinea, linking them to cellular effects observed in Allium cepa. Researching these compounds advances understanding of how natural substances influence health, promoting the development of novel therapeutics.
7) Discussion:
In scientific research, the discussion section synthesizes findings and contextualizes them within existing literature. This part of the paper evaluates the implications of observed abnormalities from Ixora coccinea flower extract and highlights its significance for further research, particularly in cancer treatment applications and understanding cellular mechanisms.
8) Substance:
In the context of this study, 'substance' refers to the aqueous extract of Ixora coccinea flowers being analyzed. Each chemical component of the extract may interact differently with cellular processes. Understanding these substances' impacts on cell division can lead to insights about therapeutic applications and safety.
9) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a class of phytochemicals known for their antioxidant and potential anticancer properties. The study mentions flavonoids present in Ixora coccinea flowers, suggesting these compounds could be responsible for cytotoxic effects observed in the cellular analysis, reinforcing the importance of investigating plant-based antioxidants in therapeutic development.
10) Medicine:
Medicine is the science of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. This study emphasizes the intersection of traditional Indian medicine and modern scientific investigation, showcasing the role of plants like Ixora coccinea in health care. Understanding these relationships fosters improved therapeutic practices and reinforces the value of botanical sources.
11) Science (Scientific):
Science encompasses systematic study and experimentation to enhance knowledge about natural phenomena. The research exemplifies the application of scientific methods to explore the properties of Ixora coccinea. It reflects a broader commitment to uncovering the mechanisms behind traditional remedies and integrating them into modern medical understanding.
12) Reason:
Reason in this context relates to the rationale for conducting the study. The authors aimed to explore the biological impact of Ixora coccinea flower extract, providing evidence for potential therapeutic uses. Understanding the underlying reasons for research promotes transparent scientific inquiry and helps justify the investigation of alternative treatments.
13) Botany:
Botany is the study of plants and their biological processes. The research involves examining the effects of a plant-derived extract on cellular structures, demonstrating botany's relevance to medicine. Findings from this field can lead to discovering new medicinal plants and understanding their effects on human health.
14) Shand (Śaṇḍ, Sand):
Sand is used in the germination process of onion bulbs in this study. It provides a medium for root development while allowing for adequate drainage. The choice of sand highlights the importance of growth conditions in experiments that evaluate the effects of substances on plant cellular mechanisms.