A Comparative Study of Mitotic Index and Chromosome Aberrations in Vincristine and Doxorubicin-Treated Normal Female Mice

Background and Objective: Cancer is a broad term encompassing a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. It can affect virtually any part of the body and can arise from various factors, including genetic mutations, environmental exposures, lifestyle choices and infections. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of two chemotherapy drugs, vincristine (VCR) and doxorubicin (DOXO), commonly used in cancer treatment, on various biological markers and chromosomal integrity in normal female mice. Materials and Methods: Forty white female mice were divided into four groups of 10 mice each: Group 1 was treated with 0.2 mL PBS, group 2 was treated with 0.04 mg/0.1 mL vincristine (VCR), group 3 was treated with 0. 06 mg/0.1 mL doxorubicin (DOXO) outside the untreated group, serum collected from treated animals was evaluated for total sialic acid, lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase enzymes, mitotic index and chromosomal aberration count. Results: Mice treated with VCR showed significantly increased CK levels in bone marrow cells while LDH levels remained unchanged. The TSA levels in serum and bone marrow homogenates were significantly reduced in the VCR and DOXO-treated groups (21 and 26-30%, respectively). The MI also decreased significantly in the treatment groups (VCR = 22%, DOXO = 30%). Chromosomal structural aberrations were also observed in the form of breaks, loops or other forms, although DOXO caused more aberrations. Conclusion: The VCR and DOXO were effective in reducing the severity of TSA and MI as well as changing chromosomal patterns. These results suggest that TSA can be used as an indicator of in vivo cellular response in cancer patients treated with chemotherapy.