Year: 2018
Type: review
Abstract: Radiotherapy is one of the most efficient ways to treat cancer. However, deleterious effects, such as acute and chronic toxicities that reduce the quality of life, may result. Naturally occurring compounds have been shown to be non-toxic over wide dose ranges and are inexpensive and effective. Additionally, pharmacological strategies have been developed that use radioprotectors to inhibit radiation-induced toxicities. Currently available radioprotectors have several limitations, including toxicity. In this review, we present the mechanisms of proven radioprotectors, ranging from free radical scavenging (the best-known mechanism of radioprotection) to molecular-based radioprotection (e.g., upregulating expression of heat shock proteins). Finally, we discuss naturally occurring compounds with radioprotective properties in the context of these mechanisms.
Source: Archives of Pharmacal Research
Authors: Gil-Im Mun, Seoyoung Kim, Eun Choi, Cha Soon Kim, Yun-Sil Lee
Institutions: Ewha Womans University, Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power (Korea)
Language: English
Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $5,290
OpenAlex ID: W2898474242