Effect of geraniol on rat cardiomyocytes and its potential use as a cardioprotective natural compound

AimsReactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated in the ischaemic myocardium especially during early reperfusion and affect myocardial function and viability. Monoterpenes have been proposed to play beneficial roles in diverse physiological systems; however, the mechanisms of action remain largely unknown. This study aims to assess the effect of monoterpene geraniol (GOH) on neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes (NRVCs) subjected to oxidative stress.Main methodsWe used an in vitro model of hypoxia-reoxygenation. Cardioprotective (AMPK) and cardiotoxic (ERK1/2, ROS) signaling indicators were measured. Assays were performed by fluorogenic probes, MTT assays and Western-blots.Key findingsWe determined that the addition of GOH (5-200 μM) to cultured normoxic and hypoxic-NRVCs diminished the endogenous production of ROS in stressed cardiomyocytes. We observed that GOH treatment increased pAMPK levels and decreased pERK1/2 levels in cultured NRVCs.SignificanceThis report suggests that GOH is a candidate cardioprotective natural compound that operates by blunting the oxidative stress signaling that is normally induced by hypoxia-reoxygenation.

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