Therapeutic Potential of Linalool in Endometriosis: Modulation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Apoptosis in a Rat Model
TL;DR
It is suggested that linalool exerts multi‐targeted effects to reduce EMS severity, and linalool's promise as a potential therapeutic agent for EMS is highlighted, though further research in human models is needed to confirm its clinical relevance.
Abstract
Endometriosis (EMS) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting 10%–15% of women of reproductive age and is a major cause of infertility. This study explores the therapeutic effects of linalool, a natural compound with antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties, on EMS in a rat model. Twenty‐four female rats were divided into four groups: sham, EMS control, and two treatment groups receiving linalool at 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg. EMS was induced by implanting uterine tissue, and linalool was administered for 28 days. Oxidative stress markers (MDA, SOD, GPx, CAT), inflammation indicators (TNF‐α, IL‐1β, NF‐κB), apoptosis regulators (Bax, Bcl‐2, caspase‐3), autophagy marker (Beclin1), adhesion molecule (ICAM‐1), and angiogenic factor (VEGF) were all assessed using biochemical and histological techniques. Linalool treatment significantly reduced lesion size and oxidative stress in a dose‐dependent manner. The higher dose group (Lina 100) showed nearly normal histological features tissue histology. Linalool boosted antioxidant enzymes, reduced inflammatory signaling via NF‐κB and MAPK pathways, promoted apoptosis, and suppressed angiogenesis and cellular adhesion. These findings suggest that linalool exerts multi‐targeted effects to reduce EMS severity. The study highlights linalool's promise as a potential therapeutic agent for EMS, though further research in human models is needed to confirm its clinical relevance.