Gentiana lutea Root Extract Attenuates Radiation-Induced Damage in Human PBMCs in vitro

Ionizing radiation (IR) has the potential to harm cellular macromolecules, raising concerns across a range of exposure contexts. This study investigates the radioprotective potential of Gentiana lutea root extract (GRE), a natural product known for its antioxidant properties.

The GRE composition was analysed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were treated with 0.25-2 mg/mL GRE 24 hours prior to 0.5 and 2 Gy gamma radiation exposure (Co-60 source). Oxidative stress and antioxidant responses were evaluated via lipid peroxidation products, reduced glutathione, and pro-oxidant/antioxidant balance assays. Genomic damage was assessed using the micronuclei test, comet and colorimetric DNA fragmentation assay, and DNA repair was assessed through evaluation of gene expression levels that are involved in base excision repair.

The presence of gentiopicroside, loganic acid, sweroside, swertiamarin, and rosmarinic acid was confirmed by UPLC analysis. GRE pretreatment significantly improved cell viability, reduced oxidative and genomic damage, and enhanced antioxidative responses in irradiated cells.

Natural compounds in GRE induce cellular responses that attenuate sublethal radiation damage in human PBMCs in vitro, supporting its further evaluation as a potential radioprotective strategy.