Phytochemical profiling with cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of green tobacco leaf extract

Tobacco (genus Nicotiana), primarily cultivated for commercial use, poses significant occupational health risks, particularly during its green leaf stage. This study investigates the cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of green tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) through phytochemical analysis using GC-MS and cytological assays on Allium cepa. GC-MS results revealed major compounds including nicotine (42.55%), naphthalene (34.08%), neophytadiene, phytol, and various methyl esters. In cytological duration dependent exposure of root tip meristematic cell and young flower buds in green leaf extracts showed reduced mitotic index as well as meiotic index and different types of chromosomal abnormalities such as stickiness, bridges, laggards, and micronuclei formation.