The Possible Protective Role of Genistein against Some Biochemical Alterations Induced by γ-Irradiation in Male Albino Rats

Genistein is one of the main isoflavones, as an active compound of dietary antioxidants, has shown considerable promise as an effective agent against oxidative stress. The purpose of this study was to determine the radio-protective effect of genistein administration to rats at a non-toxic dose (200 mg/kg b.wt.) against Gamma-irradiation-induced oxidative stress. Gamma-irradiation (2.5 Gy x 3 delivered every other day) resulted in a significant decrease in hepatic glutathione contents (GSH), superoxides dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity, insulin level as well as the concentration of high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Moreover, a remarkable increase in the malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, the activity of some liver enzymes, the level of glucose and the concentrations of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low density and very low density lipoprotein-cholesterol was observed in γ-irradiated rats. In contrast, genistein administration prior to γ-irradiation of rats ameliorated γ-irradiation-induced oxidative stress by elevating the activity of antioxidant enzymes, enhancing liver function in addition to improving the lipid metabolism. From the results of this study it possible to conclude that genistein is a natural antioxidant and seems to be beneficial for correcting the biochemical alterations and preventing γ-irradiation complications