Mutagenic effects due to allelopathic action of fern (Gleicheniaceae) extracts

The cytotoxic effects of aqueous extracts obtained during the dry and rainy seasons from fern species (Dicranopteris flexuosa (Schrad) Underw and Gleicheniella pectinata (Wild) Ching) were evaluated on the meristematic cells of Lactuca sativa and Zea mays. Both D. flexuosa and G. pectinata extracts inhibited the root growth and/or germination possibly due to cell cycle and chromosome alterations. The extract of both species hindered the cell division process and increased the number of interphase cells. In addition, both extracts increased the number of dead cells. Clastogenic effects were also observed, such as sticky chromosomes, bridges, fragments and later segregation. Information on the mechanism of action of these species (G. pectinata and D. flexuosa) helped us to understand their ecological relationships and the possible use of their allelopathic effects for bioprospection of substances with biological activity.