# A Review on Potential Antimutagenic Plants of Saudi Arabia
###### Abstract  
Mutagenic complications can cause disease in both present as well as future generations. The disorders are caused by exogenous and endogenous agents that damage DNA beyond the normal repair mechanism. Rapid industrialization and the population explosion have contributed immensely to changes in the environment, leading to unavoidable exposure to mutagens in our daily life. As it is impossible to prevent exposure, one of the better approaches is to increase the intake of anti-mutagenic substances derived from natural resources. This review summarizes some of the important plants in Saudi Arabia that might have the potential to exhibit anti-mutagenic activity. The data for the review were retrieved from Google scholar, NCBI, PUMBED, EMBASE and the Web of Science. The information in the study has importance since one of the major reasons for mutation is viral infection. Considering the pandemic situation due to novel coronavirus and its aftermath, the native plants of Saudi Arabia could become an important source for reducing mutagenic complications associated with exogenous agents, including viruses.  
Keywords:mutation; antioxidants; antimutagenesis; medicinal plants; Saudi Arabia +
Footnote †: journal: Accepted: 7 September 2021  
frame of the DNA then they are known as frameshift mutations. Chromosomal mutations are identified as morphological alterations in the gross structure of chromosomes and are analysed by microscopic examination of cells at metaphase [6].  
The end-results of mutation can be observed in both germ cells and somatic cells. If germ cells are mutated, then the disorders are related to point and chromosomal mutations. Germ cell mutations are reported to cause genetic disorders such as Klinefelter's syndrome, [PERSON]'s syndrome, Edward's syndrome [5,7]. On the other hand, somatic mutation is known to be the major cause of carcinogenesis. In addition, somatic mutation can also cause diabetes, neurological disorders, heart ailments, and aging [8]. Further, lifestyle parameters such as cigarette smoking, alcohol intake and inadequate physical activity have been reported to amplify the deleterious effects of mutation [8,9].  
In experimental studies, DNA- as well as RNA-containing viruses have induced chromosomal changes and were found to be highly mutagenic. The virus has modified the loci and the mutation rates of the virus were found to be extraordinary. The mutagenic potential of the virus was reported to be the same as that observed with other exogenous chemicals known to induce DNA defects in mammalian cells [10]. In the viral components, the nucleic acid has shown the ability to damage DNA, while the protein components did not have this potential in experimental studies. Point mutation was found to be the most frequent and it occurred due to insertion of viral nuclear component into the host cells. In this context, the pandemic due to coronavirus assumes prime importance and it is essential to follow the outcomes of infection in recovered patients [11].  
Substances derived from natural resources are reported to benefit against diseases caused by environmental chemicals. These agents exert their action from multiple pathways. The phytochemicals present in a crude drug preparation have been reported to play vital roles in pharmacological actions [12]. Oxidative stress is an important cause of mutation. The antioxidant property exhibited by natural substances is reported to reduce DNA damage [2]. This review summarizes the important plants of Saudi Arabia that have antioxidant properties that might possess the potential to prevent mutations and their complications.