Resveratrol attenuates radiation-induced salivary gland dysfunction in mice.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: In our study we investigated the radioprotective effect of resveratrol (RES) in a murine model of radiation-induced salivary gland dysfunction.

STUDY

DESIGN

Ninety-six Institute of Cancer Research mice were randomly divided into four groups: solvent (group I), RES treated (group II; 20 mg/kg/d), 15 Gy irradiation with solvent treatment (group III), and 15 Gy irradiation with RES treatment (group IV; 15 Gy and 20 mg/kg/d RES). RES (group II and IV) was administered intraperitoneally 3 days prior to irradiation through the conclusion of the experiment.

METHODS

Saliva and submandibular gland tissues were obtained for biochemical, morphological, immunohistochemical, and Western blot analyses at 8 hours, 24 hours, and 30 days after localized irradiation.

RESULTS

Radiation caused a reduction of saliva secretion, salivary amylase activity, superoxide dismutase, and an elevation of malondialdehyde. Administration of RES reversed the reduction of saliva secretion induced by irradiation and restored salivary amylase and superoxide dismutase activity. In addition, RES could inhibit increases in transforming growth factor-β1 expression induced by radiation.

CONCLUSIONS

RES can protect salivary glands against the negative effects of irradiation and has great potential as a treatment for successful radiotherapy in clinical practice.