Evaluation of radioprotective effects of propolis and quercetin on human white blood cells in vitro

This in vitro study aimed at investigating the possible radioprotective effects of natural substances propolis and quercetin on gamma-irradiated human white blood cells. The levels of primary DNA damage were studied by the alkaline comet assay, while the cytogenetic damage was evaluated using the analysis of structural chromosome aberration and cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay. The results obtained by all endpoints indicate acceptable toxicity profiles of propolis and quercetin in vitro, and also confirmed their radioprotective abilities. Propolis was found to be more effective in diminishing the levels of primary and more complex cytogenetic DNA damage in gamma-irradiated white blood cells. Data gathered in present study support the use of propolis and quercetin as non-toxic protective substances. However, to clarify the underlying mechanisms of their cyto/radioprotective activities, additional studies are necessary at both in vitro and in vivo levels.