Radioprotective Effect Of Green Tea Extract On GAMMA Irradiated Mice

This study aimed to evaluate the possible radioprotective role of green tea extract (GTE) in mice exposed to gamma radiation. Eighty male mice were divided into four groups; group (A) was considered the control, group (B) received 1.5% GTE for 14 days, group (C) exposed to 4 Gy gamma radiation and group (D) received GTE and exposed to 4 Gy gamma radiation. Blood and liver tissue were collected from these groups 24 hours, 3 days and 5 days post-irradiation to measure the levels of hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), serum aminotransferases (ALT and AST), Hb concentration, RBCs, WBCs and platelets counts, in addition to ultra-structure examination of the liver. The results revealed that GTE supplementation prior to irradiation significantly decreased hepatic MDA, increased hepatic antioxidant enzyme (SOD) and decreased serum ALT and AST compared to irradiated mice. Also, supplementation of mice with GTE led to regeneration and protection of hepatocytes and the levels of the hematological parameters were significantly increased in the GTE pre-treated group as compared to irradiated animals. It could be conclude that the GTE may be a good agent to attenuate radiation-induced damage to the liver and hematopoietic system.