In vivo cytogenotoxicity of powdered laundry detergents in Allium cepa

Abstract

Detergents are complex mixtures that contain harmful organic and inorganic chemical constituents which help in dirt removal. The present study was planned to assess the potential cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of powdered laundry detergents available in Sri Lanka by Allium cepa bioassay. Five detergents were selected including four (A, B, C, and D) from a questionnaire survey and non-branded detergent E from the local market. Toxicity assessments were conducted for a series of pre-determined aqueous detergent concentrations ranging from 0 to 2500 mg/L using the standard A. cepa bioassay. All experiments were triplicated, and standard protocols were followed. Descriptive statistics in MINITAB19 software were used for data analysis. Exposure to detergent concentrations <500 mg/L resulted root growth retardation, and mitosis suppression of A. cepa, indicating concentration-dependent cytotoxicity. Condensed nuclei were the most prominent nuclear abnormality. The most frequent chromosomal aberrations were vagrant chromosomes and chromosomal adherence. The selected detergents induced necrotic cell death at higher concentrations in A. cepa root meristematic cells. Exposure of detergents for 7 days induced root malformations including tip breakages, crochet roots, uneven root length, hooks, yellow-colored roots, c-tumor roots, and slimy translucent roots. Further research is recommended to investigate the toxic effects of detergents on organisms within the ecosystem to a better understanding of the risks associated with detergent use and aid in the development of appropriate measures to mitigate potential adverse effects on the environment and human health.