In Vivo Developmental Toxicity and Teratogenic Evaluation of Cucumis melo L. var. Gama Melon Parfum Extract on Wader Pari Fish(Rasbora lateristriata) Embryos

Abstract

Cucumis melo L. var. Gama Melon Parfum (GMP) is a superior hybrid cultivar developed by the Laboratory of Genetics and Breeding, Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada, characterized by its distinctive sweet aroma and bitter taste. Previous in vitro studies have demonstrated the anticancer potential of GMP extract through the inhibition of cell proliferation and the induction of apoptosis; however, its in vivo toxicity and developmental safety profile remain largely unexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the developmental toxicity and teratogenic potential of GMP extract using Rasbora lateristriata embryos as a biological model. This Indonesian native species offers several advantages, including embryo transparency, high environmental sensitivity, and rapid development, with hatching occurring within 24 hours. The study was conducted in accordance with the Fish Embryo Toxicity (FET) guidelines (OECD Test No. 236, 2025). A preliminary range-finding test indicated 100% mortality at 1000 ppm, followed by a definitive test using concentrations of 50, 100, 250, and 500 ppm in 0.1% DMSO. Early-stage embryos (2–4 hpf) were exposed up to 96 hpf, and endpoints including hatching rate, survival rate, heart rate, and morphological abnormalities were assessed. The results revealed a concentration-dependent response. At 50–250 ppm, no significant effects were observed on survival, hatching, or heart rate; however, notable teratogenic effects were identified, including spinal deformities, ocular abnormalities (microphthalmia and anophthalmia), hemorrhage, and impaired swim bladder development. In contrast, exposure to 500 ppm resulted in acute lethal toxicity, as evidenced by complete mortality, absence of hatching, and loss of cardiac activity. In conclusion, GMP extract exhibits developmental toxicity characterized by a transition from sublethal (teratogenic) to lethal effects with increasing concentration. These findings underscore the importance of dose optimization and comprehensive in vivo evaluation in the development of GMP extract as a potential biomedical agent.