A study led by Dr. Silvia Siteni at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center has demonstrated the potential of metformin, a common diabetes medication, as a radioprotector for cancer patients and astronauts exposed to high radiation levels. Published in PLOS One, the research showed that metformin can reduce DNA damage and oxidative stress in human cells exposed to radiation, as well as improve survival rates in mice subjected to ionizing radiation. Metformin's ability to activate detoxification pathways by increasing the expression of antioxidants like superoxide dismutase (SOD1) and phosphorylated AMPK was highlighted. However, further research is necessary to optimize dosages and understand the long-term effects before considering clinical trials.
Fri, 13 Sep 2024 11:44:14 GMT | Technology Networks