The Comet assay and micronucleus test showed that exposure to tobacco leaves for different periods of time caused
significant DNA damage. Inhibition of cytochrome P450 enzymes occurred only in the tobacco group. Chemical analysis
indicated the presence of the alkaloid nicotine, coumarins, saponins, flavonoids and various metals. These results
show that tobacco leaves are genotoxic in H. aspersa and inhibit cytochrome P450 activity, probably through
the action of the complex chemical mixture present in the plant.