Antigenotoxic and Lifespan-Promoting Effects of Flavoured Kombuchas on Drosophila melanogaster

Research background. Kombucha is a fermented beverage with several health benefits; however, to improve its antioxidant activity, new raw materials consisting of hop, madimak, and hawthorn were included in the present study. Experimental approach. The Drosophila Somatic Mutation and Recombination Test (SMART) was used to evaluate the antigenotoxic potential of black tea kombucha and three-flavoured kombuchas (hop, madimak, and hawthorn) against H2O2- and K2Cr2O7-induced genotoxicity. Furthermore, a lifespan assay was performed to assess the effects of kombuchas on Drosophila longevity. Results and conclusions. According to the results obtained from the SMART assay, hop-flavoured kombucha attenuated genotoxicity induced by H2O2, and madimak-flavoured kombucha reduced genotoxicity induced by H2O2 and K2Cr2O7. Black tea kombucha and hop-flavoured kombucha prolonged the lifespan of Drosophila after H2O2 and K2Cr2O7 exposure. Novelty and scientific contribution. Hop-flavoured kombucha is a promising antioxidant that protects the genome and extends the lifespan of Drosophila. This study sheds light on novel beverages that can combat aging and protect against genotoxicity.