Tobacco farmers are routinely exposed to complex mixtures of inorganic and organic chemicals present in tobacco
leaves. In this study, we examined the genotoxicity of tobacco leaves in the snail Helix aspersa as a measure of the
risk to human health. DNA damage was evaluated using the micronucleus test and the Comet assay and the concentration
of cytochrome P450 enzymes was estimated. Two groups of snails were studied: one fed on tobacco leaves
and one fed on lettuce (Lactuca sativa L) leaves (control group). All of the snails received leaves (tobacco and lettuce
leaves were the only food provided) and water ad libitum. Hemolymph cells were collected after 0, 24, 48 and 72 h.