New drug to protect against deadly nuclear radiation effects

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The scientists from the Universty of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) have discovered a drug that may combat the deadly effects of nuclear radiation even after 24 hours of exposure. The study was published in the journal Laboratory Investigation.

In the experiment, a single injection of the investigative peptide drug TP508 given 24 hours after a potentially-lethal exposure to radiation significantly increased survival and delayed mortality by counteracting damage to the gastrointestinal system.

"The peptide may be an effective emergency nuclear countermeasure after exposure to increase survival," said lead author Carla Kantara from The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) in the US.

The drug was originally developed for use in stimulating repair of skin, bone and muscle tissues but in clinical trials the drug has been reported to increase healing of diabetic foot ulcers and wrist fractures with no drug-related adverse events.

“The current results suggest that the peptide may be an effective emergency nuclear counter-measure that could be delivered within 24 hours after exposure to increase survival and delay mortality, giving victims time to reach facilities for advanced medical treatment,” said lead author Carla Kantara, a postdoctoral fellow from UTMB.

By Lizitha