Antigenotoxic Effects of Barleria Cristata and B. Prionitis Root Extracts Against Methyl Parathion-Induced Toxicity in Allium Cells

Plant-derived compounds with therapeutic potential are attracting global attention, with growing interest in traditional and folk knowledge for novel drug discoveries. Free radicals generated during metabolism or environmental exposure damage DNA, proteins and lipids, contributing to genetic instability and disease. Natural antioxidants, particularly phenolics and flavonoids, are valued as safe and effective protective agents. This study investigated the antioxidant and antigenotoxic potential of root methanolic extracts of Barleria cristata and B. prionitis (Acanthaceae), both widely used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging assays, where both extracts showed strong, dose-dependent activity, with B. prionitis being more effective. Antigenotoxic effects were assessed in vivo using the Allium cepa assay against methyl parathion (MP), an organophosphorus pesticide. MP exposure reduced mitotic index (MI) and induced chromosomal aberrations (CA) such as stickiness, bridges, and scattering. Pretreatment with the extracts reduced these cytogenotoxic effects in a dose-dependent manner, with B. prionitis offering maximum protection. Phenolic and flavonoid contents were quantified using Folin–Ciocalteu and Aluminium chloride colorimetric assays, confirming notable levels. The use of the A. cepa assay, a validated model correlating well with mammalian systems, provided reliable assessment of cytogenotoxicity. Overall, the findings highlight the strong antioxidant and antigenotoxic potential of B. cristata and B. prionitis, with B. prionitis emerging as a particularly promising candidate for further pharmacological exploration.