Abstract :Introduction: Anticlastogenic potential of Ocimum canum (Black leaf) extract was studied in bone marrow cells of mice using micronucleus assay.
Experimental: 200mg/kg of Ocimum canum aqueous extract was administered as dietary supplement for 30-days. The mice were divided into three groups A, B and C. Animals in group A were fed with distilled water, B were treated with 2.5mg/kg lead acetate while group C were fed with 200mg/kg Ocimum canum
aqueous extract and 2.5mg/kg lead acetate simultaneously. After 30-days, mice were sacrificed and chromosome preparations were made from bone marrow according to colchicines hypotonic-fixation air drying Giemsa schedule. The cytogenic end-point observed was chromosomal aberration which increased
significantly (P<0.05) in group B animals treated with lead acetate only. However, the chromosomal aberration was significantly (P<0.05) reduced by the extract fed to animals in group C. In addition, the effect of the extract on the defensive antioxidant enzymes of the test animals was also assessed.
Result: The results indicate synergistic effect of the extract on the antioxidant enzymes in the liver tissues.
Conclusion: Hence, the results of this study suggest viable anticlastogenic and antioxidant potentials of Ocimum canum extract which could protect against lead-induced chromosomal aberration and as well enhance activities of antioxidant enzymes.