Determination of embryotoxic effects of Tarantula cubensis alcoholic extract with in ovo model

Canbar R., Akcakavak G., Uslu M., Bas A. L.

Magyar Allatorvosok Lapja, vol.143, no.8, pp.497-504, 2021 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 143 Issue: 8
  • Publication Date: 2021
  • Journal Name: Magyar Allatorvosok Lapja
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, Veterinary Science Database
  • Page Numbers: pp.497-504
  • Yozgat Bozok University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Background: Tarantula cubensis alcoholic extract (TCAE), a homeopathic product, is widely used in the treatment of different diseases in many animal species. However, there is no conclusive data about its safety in pregnancy. In ovo models have frequently been used for embryotoxicity studies. Thus, it has been hypothesized that the embryotoxic effects of TCAE could be determined by an in ovo model.

Objectives: The aim of this research was to determine the embryotoxic effects and lethal dose 50 (LD50) of TCA using fertile eggs with an in ovo model.

Materials and Methods: A total of 360 fertile eggs were kept in an incubator and randomly divided into 12 groups (n = 30). Egg fertility was controlled on day 7. The first group of eggs was not treated. The second group was injected with 50 µL saline solution. The next 5 groups were injected with TCAE at doses of 50 µL/egg, 25 µL/egg, 12.5 µL/egg, 6.25 µL/egg and 3.125 µL/egg, respectively. Ethanol, the vehicle substance of the commercial TCAE product, was injected at doses of 18.2 µL/egg, 9.1 µL/egg, 4.6 µL/egg, 2.3 µL/egg and 1.2 µL/egg, respectively, into the remaining 5 groups. The doses were supplemented with saline solution to achieve a volume of 50 µL. After the incubation period (21 days), all eggs were opened, LD50 and embryotoxic dose limits were determined and tissue samples were taken for histopathological examinations.

Results and Discussion: In this study, similar mortality rates were found amongst the control and experimental groups. Although homeopathic agents have been suggested for the therapy of some problems during pregnancy, the safety of these products in pregnancy is subjective and not scientifically tested. However, each product must be tested. No histologic and macroscopic pathology was determined in any of the groups in this research. However, homeopathic products can be toxic or safe depending on the dose, source and route of administration. It can be stated that TCAE (50 µL, 25 µL, 12.5 µL, 6.25 µL, 3.125 µL) does not have an adverse effect on the viability and organ development of chick embryos at any dose. Hence, it may be accepted as safe when used in pregnancy.