They also show that the new agents have several desirable 'antioxidant' activities, and protect cells.

BUSM researchers had previously discovered novel synthetic antioxidants that effectively mitigate radiation injuries, but had to be given by injection.

'We have developed some of these agents and have studied them for over 15 years beginning with our work at the local biotechnology company Eukarion,' said study author Susan Doctrow, professor of medicine at BUSM.

'These injectible antioxidants are very effective, but there has also been a desire to have agents that can be given orally. A pill would be more feasible than an injection to treat large numbers of people in an emergency scenario,' she added.

These findings appeared in the June issue of the Journal of Biological Inorganic Chemistry.