Cytogenetic biomonitoring in buccal mucosa cells of COVID-19 patients: Preliminary findings

Abstract

Background/Aim: COVID-19 may lead to progressive respiratory failure as a consequence of alveolar damage, resulting in death. The aim of this study was to evaluate cytogenetic damage in oral cells of COVID-19 patients by micronucleus assay. Patients and Methods: A total of 11 COVID-19 patients aged 40.7±9.3 years (5 men and 6 women) were included in this study. For the control group, a total of 15 participants not infected with SARS-CoV- 2 virus were included. The mean age was 41.6±6.2 years (5 men and 10 women). Results: The results showed statistically significant differences (p<0.05) in micronucleated buccal mucosa cells of COVID-19 patients. In addittion, a statistically significant increase in karyolysis and karrhyorexis (p<0.05) was observed in COVID-19 patients compared to control. Conclusion: SARS-CoV-2 virus can induce mutagenesis and cytotoxicity in oral cells.