Red cabbage extract limits copper stress injury in meristematic cells of <Emphasis Type="Italic">Vicia faba</Emphasis>

Natural phenolic compounds (phenolic acids, flavonoids, tannins, lignans) present in food of plant origin are in the focus of interest due to their prevalence, properties and biological activity. The aim of the presented work was to investigate antioxidant and antigenotoxic effects of the anthocyanin-rich extract from red cabbage leaves (Brassica oleracea rubrum) on the changes induced by toxic Cu²⁺ concentrations. MeOH extract from red cabbage containing anthocyanin (ATH) and phenolic acid derivatives exhibited strong antioxidant properties. Cu²⁺ decreased mitotic index (MI) and inhibited proliferative activity of Vicia faba root meristematic cells. The morphology of mitotic chromosomes was changed; “erosion” and pulverization might result from Cu²⁺ high-cytotoxicity. Numerous micronuclei, chromatid bridges and lagging/lost chromosomes were found in the meristematic cells of V. faba, which indicate the clastogenic effect of Cu²⁺. The application of the ATH-rich extract lowered the number of disturbances induced by Cu²⁺. The positive role of the ATH-rich red cabbage extract will be discussed.