Protective effects of myrtenol against paraquat-induced toxicity in rats.

Abstract

Background: Paraquat (PQ) is a widely used pesticide, can cause severe intoxication and respiratory failure. Myrtenol (Mrl), an essential oil derived in various plants, exhibits several biological properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. This study aims to investigate the protective potential of Mrl against oxidative stress and inflammation caused by PQ exposure.

Methods: Twenty-five Wistar albino rats were divided into the following groups (n = 5 in each group): a control group (treated by dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)), a PQ group (exposed to 54 mg/m³ aerosol PQ), and two treatment groups that were exposed to PQ aerosol and administered oral Mrl at doses of 25 mg/kg/day and 50 mg/kg/day, respectively. The final group was exposed to PQ aerosol and treated with oral dexamethasone at a dose of 0.03 mg/kg/day. Various hematological, oxidative, inflammatory, and pathological indices were measured at the conclusion of the treatment period.

Results: PQ decreases the levels or activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and Thiol, while increasing the levels or activities of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Mrl restored activites of SOD, and CAT, as well as thiol levels to near-control values while reducing TNF-α, IL-6, and MDA levels. Pathological studies further confirmed the therapeutic effects of Mrl.

Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate the promising therapeutic effects of Mrl against inhaled PQ in rats.