Destructive Effects of Mawa and Pan Masala on Somatic Cells of Allium cepa L.

Mawa & Pan masala are smokeless tobacco products consumed by people on a large scale. These materials consist of ingredients that cause carcinogenic effects. A comprehensive analysis was undertaken to elucidate the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of the aqueous extracts obtained from these products. Three concentrations such as 10, 20 and 30% were prepared and assessed utilizing the Allium cepa model. The root tips were subsequently treated with different concentrations of extracts for 144 hours. The results revealed a significant decrease in the mitotic index, particularly in root tip cells exposed to 30% mawa extract at 20.53 and to 30% pan masala extract at 48.91%. The treated cells show different types of chromosomal aberrations like vacuolated cells, fragmented chromosomes, disturbed metaphase, laggards, binucleated cells, cells with damaged cell walls, disturbed telophase, etc. From the results, it can be concluded that smokeless tobacco products have cytotoxic and genotoxic effects. It causes abnormalities in cellular structure which may result in tissue or organ malformation. Care must be taken while consuming it.