Radioprotection by Biological Response Modifiers Alone and in Combination with WR-2721
Abstract
Even when used alone glucan can function protectively and/or therapeutically in radiation-injured host. When used in this manner, 'radioprotective' potential appears to be limited to (Dose Reduction Factors) of 1.2 - 1.3. However, when used in combination with even low doses of traditional aminothiol radioprotectors such as WR-2721, glucan can additively or synergistically increase DRFs to 1.5 - 1.6. Such results suggest that not only better radioprotection but also reduced toxicity may be obtained by using low-to-modest doses of several radioprotective agents that act via different mechanisms. Furthermore, based on measurements of motor performance in mice, glucan even appears to reduce the behavioral toxicity of WR-2721. Glucan is only one of several macrophage-activating Biological Response Modifiers (BRMs) that have been demonstrated to be both hemopoietic stimulants and radioprotectors. Numerous other BRMs remain to be evaluated for these effects, and they may prove to be as good as or better than glucan as radioprotectors. As more data accumulate, it appears that these agents (alone or in combination with other agents) are establishing their usefulness in the treatment and/or prevention of acute radiation injury. Keywords: Immunomodulators, Reprints.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA207914
Entities
People
- Joseph F. Weiss
- Michael A. Chirigos
- Michele M. D'alesandro
- Myra L. Patchen
Organizations
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute