Radiation's Effects Combated a Natural Way

Radiation, a threat that has become more real after exposure from the Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan, has a natural way to counteract its effects, claim researchers. The research published in ACS Medicinal Chemistry Letters looked at resveratrol, a natural antioxidant found in certain foods. But the researchers led by Michael Epperly discovered that it did not give protection from radiation damage, unless the cells were in a flask under lab conditions.

A substance similar to resveratrol, present in red wine, grapes and nuts, called acetyl resveratrol was found to be effective in protecting living cells from radiation damage and sickness.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has been very involved in studying a drug for its ability to protect against radiation sickness. The drawback to this drug lies in the side effects which makes it unsuitable for cancer patients.



Source-Medindia