Integrated Genotoxic, Developmental, and in-silico Assessment of Organic UV -Filters Octocrylene and Homosalate in Drosophila melanogaster

UV filters are generally used in sunscreens & cosmetic formulations to protect against harmful UV radiation; however, concerns have been raised regarding their biological safety. In this study, two commonly used Organic UV filters Octocrylene and Homosalate were evaluated by integrated in vivo and in silico approaches in Drosophila melanogaster. SMART assay revealed dose-dependent genotoxicity, with Octocrylene producing the strongest genetic damage. Developmental assay showed significant impairment of larval and pupal development and reduced adult eclosion with Homosalate exhibiting the strongest developmental toxicity. Combined exposure affected development but no clear synergistic effects was seen. Molecular docking against EcR, EGFR and Eip75B showed favourable binding interactions indicating possible interference with hormonal regulation, growth signalling and developmental control. Homosalate showed the highest affinity to EcR and Octocrylene bound better to EGFR and Eip75B. Overall these results show that both UV filters can induce genetic and developmental alterations, highlighting the necessity to continue the toxicological evaluation of organic UV filters and supporting Drosophila melanogaster as a valuable model for toxicological evaluation.