Linalool Alleviates Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Markers in Rats with CFA-Induced Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and idiopathic disorder that inflames joint synovial tissue, cartilage, bone and lowers the quality of life. Many studies link RA to leukocyte-mediated inflammation and oxidative damage along with the liberation of many inflammatory cells, degradative enzymes, cytokines and chemokines. Linalool is the primary ingredient of some essential oils derived from aromatic plants containing antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antirheumatic effect of Linalool through invitro, insilico and Complete Freund's adjuvant induced arthritic rat model. Antioxidant activity was measured by 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, Nitric oxide, Superoxide, and Hydroxyl radical scavenging assay, and anti-inflammatory activity by Human Red Blood Cell stabilization and Protein denaturation inhibition assay. Rats were stimulated with Complete Freund's adjuvant, type II collagen, and Lipopolysaccharide to develop arthritis and evaluated for biochemical and arthritic markers. Linalool exhibits concentration dependent inhibition in both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory assays at concentrations ranging from 25 to 250 µg/mL. Subsequently, both 100 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg of Linalool managed all the arthritic parameters (body weight, paw volume, splenic index, and arthritic index) effectively, including Tumor Necrosis Factor- α, Interleukin-6, Lymphocytes and Neutrophils. The insilico analysis shows a favourable protein-ligand interaction for the identified proteins. Linalool was effective in reducing inflammation, prevents joint and cartilage damage, and modulates immunological responses, suggesting it might be helpful in RA. Further research and clinical trials are needed to validate these results and explore Linalool's potential as a viable treatment option for patients suffering from this debilitating autoimmune disease.