Radiomitigators: Classification, Pharmacological Properties, and Application Prospects

Abstract

A classification of radiomitigators, i.e., antiradiation agents for prevention or reduction of the severity of clinical manifestations of acute radiation syndrome and its delayed and long-term clinical consequences, has been proposed. In the classification proposed, radiomitigators used for prophylaxis and treatment of the immediate and remote clinical manifestations of acute radiation syndrome are divided into the following main groups: means (drugs) for treatment of the bone marrow syndrome; means for treatment of the gastrointestinal syndrome; means for treatment of local and subtotal manifestations of radiation injuries; means for prevention and treatment of delayed and long-term effects of irradiation. A list and brief characteristics of the most promising radiomitigators from the groups of cytokines, growth factors, antioxidants, immunomodulators, steroid hormone analogues, and apoptosis blockers are given.