Essential oils (EOs) represent intricate blends of volatile organic compounds sourced from plants, renowned for their multifaceted beneficial properties encompassing antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antiparasitic, antifungal, and insecticidal activities. Notably, their well-documented antibacterial efficacy hints at their potential as alternatives to conventional antibiotics or antifungal medications. The widespread use of antibiotics in both human and veterinary medicine has spurred the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria over time. Similarly, the utilization of antifungal agents has led to the proliferation of fungi resistant to such treatments.The complex mechanism of action exhibited by EOs can confer an advantage over traditional antibiotics, potentially mitigating the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, their potential toxic effects on the environment necessitate careful examination. This study investigated the acute toxicity of three EOs (limonene, lavender, and melissa) on nauplii, metanauplii, juvenile and adults of Artemia franciscana both taken singles and a a mixture trying to elucidate their mechanism of action through gene expression analysis. Results revealed dose-dependent toxicity across all developmental stages of A. franciscana for each EO. Mixtures of EOs also displayed significant toxicity, with synergistic effects observed both in binary and ternary combinations. Molecular analysis highlighted varied gene expression patterns in response to single compounds and mixtures, suggesting complex interactions influencing stress response pathways. The "defensome" genes, including heat shock proteins and cytochrome-c oxidases, showed differential expression suggesting the involvement in stress defense mechanisms. Moreover, decreased expression of NADH and ZMP genes after mixture exposure could impair detoxification and cellular functions due to oxidative stress.
Unraveling the complexities of essential oils: exploring benefits, toxicity, and environmental impacts in a one health perspective
Alice Cardito;Maurizio Carotenuto;Daniela Baldantoni;Vincenzo Vaiano;
2024-01-01
Abstract
Essential oils (EOs) represent intricate blends of volatile organic compounds sourced from plants, renowned for their multifaceted beneficial properties encompassing antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antiparasitic, antifungal, and insecticidal activities. Notably, their well-documented antibacterial efficacy hints at their potential as alternatives to conventional antibiotics or antifungal medications. The widespread use of antibiotics in both human and veterinary medicine has spurred the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria over time. Similarly, the utilization of antifungal agents has led to the proliferation of fungi resistant to such treatments.The complex mechanism of action exhibited by EOs can confer an advantage over traditional antibiotics, potentially mitigating the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. However, their potential toxic effects on the environment necessitate careful examination. This study investigated the acute toxicity of three EOs (limonene, lavender, and melissa) on nauplii, metanauplii, juvenile and adults of Artemia franciscana both taken singles and a a mixture trying to elucidate their mechanism of action through gene expression analysis. Results revealed dose-dependent toxicity across all developmental stages of A. franciscana for each EO. Mixtures of EOs also displayed significant toxicity, with synergistic effects observed both in binary and ternary combinations. Molecular analysis highlighted varied gene expression patterns in response to single compounds and mixtures, suggesting complex interactions influencing stress response pathways. The "defensome" genes, including heat shock proteins and cytochrome-c oxidases, showed differential expression suggesting the involvement in stress defense mechanisms. Moreover, decreased expression of NADH and ZMP genes after mixture exposure could impair detoxification and cellular functions due to oxidative stress.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
