Biochemical Studies on the Cytoprotective Efficacy of Geraniol in Benzo(a)pyrene Induced Experimental Lung Cancer

  Isoprenoids are one of the largest groups of natural products comprising numerous compounds with important roles in physiological and pathological processes. High intake of fruits and vegetables has proven to show protective action against different cancer types. Diet-derived isoprenoids represent promising cancer therapeutic agents. Monoterpenes such as Geraniol (GOH), found in essential oils of citrus fruits, cherry, mint, and herbs, are non-nutritive dietary micro constituents mainly responsible for the distinctive fragrance of many plants; have anticancer activities. In the present study the cytoprotective efficacy of geraniol, an acyclic monoterpene alcohol was evaluated in Benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P] induced lung cancer in male Swiss Albino mice. Level of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Reduced Glutathione (GSH), Vitamin C, Vitamin E, glycoproteins and Lung marker enzymes were studied.  Oral administration of Geraniol (150 mg/kg body weight) helped in maintaining the cellular redox status of the animals which plays an important role in cellular function there by increasing the efficiency of antioxidant defense system and reducing the adverse effects of cancer. Key Words: Antioxidants, Isoprenoids, Benzo(a)Pyrene, Geraniol, lung cancer.