Antimutagenic and radioprotective activities of beta-carotene against the biological effects of iodine-131 radiopharmaceutical in Wistar rats.

Radioactive iodine-131 (131I) is used in the treatment and diagnosis of thyroid gland injuries. However, because it emits ionizing radiation, it causes harmful effects to cells. Given that beta-carotene (BC) has antioxidant and antigenotoxic properties, this study aimed to investigate its radioprotective and antimutagenic activity in relation to 131I at the dose that is used to treat hyperthyroidism using a test system of bone marrow cells from Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus).

Cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of fluoxetine hydrochloride (Prozac), with or without vitamins A and C, in plant and animal model systems.

Fluoxetine, commonly known as Prozac, is the first representative of the so-called new generation of antidepressants that promise efficacy, with few side effects, against deep depression, nervous bulimia, and anxiety. As there is a growing number of people suffering from anxiety and depression; consequently, the use of fluoxetine is also increasing. Verifying absence of drug effects such as cytotoxicity or mutagenicity is of great importance.

Radioprotective effect of the Barbados Cherry (Malpighia glabra L.) against radiopharmaceutical iodine-131 in Wistar rats in vivo.

Background: The increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables has contributed to the improvement of populational health, due in part, to the abundance of antioxidants in these foods. Antioxidants reduce the level of oxidative damage to DNA caused by free radicals and ionizing radiation, including the radioisotope iodine-131 (131I). This isotope is used for the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid injuries, such as hyperthyroidism and cancer.

Evaluation of the cytotoxicity, mutagenicity and antimutagenicity of a natural antidepressant, Hypericum perforatum L. (St. John's wort), on vegetal and animal test systems.

Background: St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) is an herbaceous plant that is native to Europe, West Asia and North Africa and that is recognized and used worldwide for the treatment of mild and moderate depression.

Mutagenicity of diagnostic and therapeutical doses of radiopharmaceutical iodine-131 in Wistar rats.

Iodine-131 ((131)I) is a radioisotope used for the diagnosis and treatment of thyroidal disorders such as hyperthyroidism and cancer. During its decay, (131)I emits beta particles and gamma rays; its physical half-life is 8 days, and it is accumulated preferentially in the thyroid tissue. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of diagnostic and therapeutic doses of (131)I using bone marrow cells of rats treated in vivo in a test system with a single dose by gavage.