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The role of flavonoids as potential radioprotectors

Exposure to ionising radiation by direct ionisation and through generation of toxic free radicals causes DNA damage. Destruction of lymphoid and hematopoietic systems is the primary cause of septicemia and death. Chemical radioprotectors express toxic side effects that limit their use in medical practice. Investigations for effective and non toxic compounds with radioprotection capability led to increasing interest in naturally occurring antioxidants. Antioxidant activity of flavonoids is based on their ability of direct free radicals scavenging or stabilizing the reactive oxygen species (ROS) by interacting with the reactive compound of the radical and also increase the function of the endogenous antioxidant enzyme systems. Flavonoids induce activities of the immune system, increased hematopoietic activity could account for the improved hematopoietic tolerance to radiotherapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate radioprotective effects of selected flavonoids (caffeic acid, chrysin, naringin and quercetin) administered to mice prior to whole- body irradiation with γ-rays. The survival analysis and alkaline comet assay on white blood cells were employed both on irradiated and non-irradiated animals. Flavonoids evaluated here showed effectiveness in radioprotection ; it appears that they should be considered as promising nontoxic dietary supplements to be further tested for administration in patients exposed to radiation as well as to subjects working in hazardous occupational settings

flavonoids ; radioprotection ; survival ; comet assay ; mice

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