Washington, July 13 - Researchers have discovered and analysed a class of new compounds, which could potentially prevent radiation-related injuries to the kidneys, lungs, skin and intestinal tract.

These agents are novel synthetic 'antioxidants' that protect tissues against the kind of damage caused by agents such as 'free radicals'.

Free radicals, and similar toxic by-products formed in the body, are implicated in many different types of tissue injury, including those caused by radiation exposure.

Often, this kind of injury occurs months to years after radiation exposure. Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) researchers are developing agents that prevent injury even when given after the radiation exposure.

Dubbed 'EUK-400 series', these new class of compounds are designed to be administered as a pill.

Experiments have shown that these agents are orally active.