Estudio de toxicidad in vitro del extracto acuoso de Physalis peruviana (aguaymanto) sobre linfocitos humanos

Introduction: The search for phytotherapeutic products used to treat multiple diseases represents an area of great interest. However, its correct use must be ensured with the least possible risk to the health of the native plants population considered medicinal, such as Physalis peruviana L. (Solanaceae) commonly known as goldenberry. Objective: To evaluate the cytotoxic and genotoxic effect of the aqueous extract of Physalis peruviana on human lymphocyte culture. Methods: Lymphocyte culture was obtained from peripheral blood from three volunteer donors, aged 24 to 30 years, in lymphocyte culture medium (PBMAX). Lymphocytes were exposed for thirty minutes to concentrations of 62.5; 100; 250 and 1000 μg/mL of the aqueous extract of leaves of Physalis peruviana 300 μM hydrogen peroxide was used as a positive control and alkaline phosphate buffer at manufacturer concentration was used as a negative control. Cytotoxicity was determined by cell viability index and genotoxicity by comet trial. All trials were conducted in triplicate. Results: Averages of the percentage of DNA in the comet's tail, tail moment and olive moment were recorded, finding significant differences between the various concentrations of Physalis peruviana extract. In addition, an average damage rate of 46% was observed at the concentration of 1000 ug/mL.Conclusions: The aqueous extract of Physalis peruviana showed in vitro cytotoxic and genotoxic effect on human lymphocyte culture.