Boston University Logo A team of experts have described new oral agents which could be beneficial in preventing radiation injury post its exposure. These novel synthetic “antioxidants” are noted to shield tissues against radiation-induced injury to the skin, brain, intestinal tract, lungs, kidneys, etc. This intriguing research was conducted by the experts from the Boston University School of Medicine, in collaboration with others.

These experts are noted to have detected and assessed various novel compounds called “EUK-400 series,” which could in future be beneficial in preventing radiation incurred damage on radiological terrorism victims. These agents are noted to protect tissues against the damage incurred from “free radicals.” Notably these experts are now in the midst of creating such agents which may be able to prevent radiation damage even after giving it post the exposure.

For this purpose, the “EUK-400 series,” is believed to be designed in the form of a pill which can be taken orally. More so, it was also stated that these agents may not only have various desirable “antioxidant” activities, but they may also be able to protect the cells.

Earlier analysis by these experts had resulted in the discovery of new synthetic antioxidants which seemed to be capable of alleviating the injuries induced due to radiation. However this agent had to be given via an injection.

Susan Doctrow, PhD, a research associate professor of medicine at BUSM’s Pulmonary Center, elucidates, “We have developed some of these agents and have studied them for over 15 years beginning with our work at the local biotechnology company Eukarion. These injectible antioxidants are very effective, but there has also been a desire to have agents that can be given orally. A pill would be more feasible than an injection to treat large numbers of people in an emergency scenario.”

Apparently, future analysis on the topic will mainly focus on the effect of the EUK-400 compounds in experimental models for radiation-induced injury. These agents have seemingly showed a positive effect in models for radiation injury in blood vessel cells. These compounds could also prove to be useful in treating various other diseases like pulmonary, cardiovascular and autoimmune disorders.

These findings have been presented in the Journal of Biological Inorganic Chemistry.