Evaluation of the protective effect of physcia tenella lichen against genotoxic damage in allium cepa root tip germ cells

Physcia tenella lichen is mostly adapted to calcareous environments and is commonly observed on calcareous rocks and wall surfaces. This lichen species is widely distributed in habitats such as rural areas, woodlands and mountainous areas. Studies in the literature reveal that P. tenella has a certain tolerance to air pollutants and other environmental stressors and emphasize that the active components in the biochemical content of the lichen have pharmaceutical and biotechnological potential. The aim of this study was to determine the protective role of P. tenella lichen against various doses of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). In this context, the effects of lichen application on chromosomal disruptions, changes in DNA structure and cell viability in root tip meristem cells were analyzed. As a result of the study, it was determined that P. tenella lichen exhibited a protective property against H2O2 induced damage in root tip meristem cells of Allium cepa plant and this protective effect could be observed at different concentrations of H2O2. 2025, xi + 28 Pages Keywords: Physcia tenella, H2O2, DNA Damage, Genotoxicity