Protection of the Hemopoietic System by Podophyllum hexandrum against Gamma Radiation-Induced Damage

Abstract

A semi-purified extract of low-altitude Podophyllum hexandrum (REC-2001) containing a relatively low content of podophyllotoxin (3.25 %) exhibited potent antioxidant ability in lipid media (at 1000 μg/mL against 0.25 kGy) and significant (p < 0.05) hydroxyl ion scavenging potential (78.83 % at 500 μg/mL). In vitro investigations revealed the ability of REC-2001 to significantly (p < 0.05) reduce radiation-induced hemolysis (2 μg/mL; 46.184 %) and nitric oxide scavenging levels (IC₅₀: 792 ± 1.25 μg/mL). Protection of the hemopoietic system of Strain ‘A’ mice administered 20 mg/kg BW REC-2001 30 min prior to lethal irradiation (10 Gy) was recorded and was mediated by free radical scavenging and lowering of lipid oxidation. Further studies investigating the effects of REC-2001 on stem cell modulation are warranted.

Key words

Radioprotection - hemopoietic system - antioxidant - Podophyllum hexandrum - Podophyllotoxin - lignan glycoside

References

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