Medicinal Chemistry

Neuroprotective Effect of (-)-Linalool against Sodium Nitroprusside-Induced Cytotoxicity

Abstract

Ka Young Kim, Hui Su Lee, Sun Seek Min and Geun Hee Seol

(-)-Linalool has various pharmacological effects in humans and animal models, especially in the central nervous system. This study investigated whether (-)-linalool and linalyl acetate, the major components of lavender, can protect SH-SY5Y cells against sodium nitroprusside (SNP)-induced cytotoxicity. Cell viabilityand nitric oxide (NO) production in the presence of SNP and (-)-linalool was assessed by MTT and nitrite assays, and the free radical-scavenging activity of (-)-linalool was assessed by DPPH assay. (-)-Linalool, at low, non-toxic concentrations of 1 μM (p=0.003), 2.5 μM (p=0.001), and 5 μM (p=0.008), significantly enhanced neuronal cell viability in the presence of SNP. The protective effect of (-)-linalool against SNP-induced cytotoxicitywas also confirmed by Hoechst staining. SNP-induced NO production was significantly decreased (p<0.001 each), and antioxidant levels significantly increased (p≤0.001), by 1, 2.5, and 5 μM (-)-linalool. These findings, showing that (-)-linalool protected SH-SY5Y cells against SNP-induced cytotoxicity by decreasing the production of NO, suggested that (-)-linalool has anti-oxidant activity in the central nervous system and may be a potential therapeutic drug in patients with neurodegenerative diseases.