Evaluation of silymarin as a promising radioprotector

Z Naturforsch C J Biosci. 2010 May-Jun;65(5-6):337-46. doi: 10.1515/znc-2010-5-605.

Abstract

Silymarin, a purified extract of seeds of Silybum marianum L. and well known for its hepatoprotective abilities, has been evaluated for inherent utility as a radioprotective agent. A fraction (INM-7035) was authenticated by characterizing the percentage composition of silybin A and B (39.9% and 57.4%). Free radical scavenging activities of INM-7035 against superoxide radicals (>68%), hydroxyl radicals (>33.75%), DPPH (67.2%), and ABTS (32.4%) were also evaluated. The fraction chelated (>30%) ferrous ions, thereby able to restrict amplification. INM-7035 exhibited >50% peroxyl radical scavenging activity in the lipid phase along with dose-dependent (R2 = 0.990) reducing power in the aqueous phase. Radiation-induced free radical flux can lead to disruption of biomolecules like membrane lipids. INM-7035 completely inhibited lipid peroxidative stress in case of membranes against supralethal radiation stress in the liposomal system. The ability of INM-7035 to modulate the levels of NF-kappaB, indicated its inherent potential as a radioprotective bioactive constituent.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biphenyl Compounds / radiation effects
  • Cell Line
  • Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid / methods
  • Cobalt Radioisotopes
  • Flavonoids / metabolism
  • Free Radical Scavengers / chemistry
  • Free Radical Scavengers / pharmacology
  • Genes, Reporter
  • Herbal Medicine
  • Humans
  • Kidney / drug effects
  • Kidney / radiation effects
  • Picrates / radiation effects
  • Radiation-Protective Agents / isolation & purification
  • Radiation-Protective Agents / pharmacology*
  • Seeds / chemistry*
  • Silybum marianum / chemistry*
  • Silymarin / isolation & purification
  • Silymarin / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Biphenyl Compounds
  • Cobalt Radioisotopes
  • Flavonoids
  • Free Radical Scavengers
  • Picrates
  • Radiation-Protective Agents
  • Silymarin
  • 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl