Scientists from the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, together with the State Scientific Center of the A. I. Burnazyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center, have found compounds for new generation radioprotectors. Their task is to protect the body from ionizing radiation without the high toxicity of existing drugs.
The problem with current drugs, such as indralin (B-190) and amifostine, is their side effects. They affect blood vessels, heart rate and blood pressure, and are also limited in duration of use due to chemical toxicity.
Scientists have proposed using natural antioxidants. The study uses ascorbic acid, trolox (a water-soluble form of vitamin E), succinic acid, and chlorophyllin derivatives. These compounds are low in toxicity and can be used in large doses or for long periods of time, which is important in radiation accidents, radiation therapy, and space flights.
The main mechanism of damage during irradiation is associated with oxidative stress that occurs during radiolysis of water in cells. Free radicals destroy structures and disrupt the functions of the body. Antioxidants bind these radicals and reduce the level of damage. Experiments on cells and laboratory animals have confirmed their ability to reduce oxidative stress.
Currently, research is being conducted with X-ray radiation, and further studies are planned to study the effectiveness of gamma radiation. Scientists need to determine dosages, methods of delivery, and radiomodifying effects. The work is supported by the Russian Science Foundation as part of the Technology-3 project. The final results are planned to be obtained within 3–4 years.
Read more materials on the topic:
- A smart system for delivering antibiotics to the lungs has been created at MEPhI: it is planned to be used against cancer as well
- A complex for testing electric drives of nuclear power plants without dismantling has been developed at NRNU MEPhI
- A step in the development of experimental physics: MEPhI has launched a multi-purpose muon detector for studying cosmic rays
