Research of the Potential Radioprotective Activity of Trimethyl Glycine and N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine with Quantitative Analysis Using Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (QRT-PCR)

The irradiation exposure could affect the cellular genome and specifically target genes, such as TP53 gene. The TP53 gene is known as a “guardian of the genome” and is a tumor suppressor gene. Its role is to keep the cell of malignant transformation. After ionizing radiation exposure, the TP53 could mutate and the cell could continue to active proliferation (tumor cellular transformation). It has been noticed that different type of substances could have radioprotective effect and to protect the cell of malignant transformation, apoptosis, genome injuries or necrosis. Some of the natural metabolites that are proven antioxidants, show significant ability of radiation protection of the cells. The aim of that study is to analyze the possible radioprotection ability of two origin metabolites (amino acids)–trimethyl glycine (betaine) and N-acetyl-L-cysteine, applied together and in combination, first before irradiation (preventive treatment) and then 2 hours after irradiation (as a therapeutic agents). The research work is done as invitro analysis to peripheral blood cell cultures. Conclusion: The conclusion of the study is that both amino acids showed good radiation protection activity after in-vitro performed analysis. The most significant results showed the combination of both natural metabolites.