In situ biomonitoring of air quality in rural and urban environments of Mexico Valley through genotoxicity evaluated in wild plants

Single-cell gel electrophoresis results showed higher damage in the leaves exposed to higher pollution in the UNAM atmospheric station in comparison to the ALTZ and controls, which was maintained in growth chambers under controlled conditions. Significant differences between rainy and dry seasons were found. Chemical analysis showed a significant increase in various heavy metals, especially in rainy season in both exposure sites. Increased DNA damage observed in both plant species at CCA station could be caused by accumulation trough six weeks.