Resveratrol Affects DNA Damage Induced by Ionizing Radiations in Human Lymphocytes In Vitro

Ionizing radiations (IR) are widely employed in cancer therapy and radiodiagnostic procedures, despite the significant limitation of dose-associated side effects. Extensive research has been conducted to identify molecules that can reduce both the radioresistance of tumor cells and unintended effects on normal cells. Naturally occurring plant compounds have been extensively evaluated, but definitive results have yet to be achieved. Resveratrol (RSV) is widely studied for its ability to affect cancer cells by inducing cell cycle delay and apoptotic death, as well as enhancing IR-mediated biological responses. However, there is limited and uncertain data on the effects of RSV treatment in normal cells, either alone or in combination with DNA damaging agents. To analyze the biological activity of resveratrol in normal cells, we treated human lymphocytes in vitro with the molecule, both as a single agent and in combination with ionizing radiations. Our aim was to evaluate its potential use as a radioprotector for normal cells during radiotherapeutic and radiodiagnostic procedures. We addressed this by analyzing DNA damage induction, the kinetics of repair, and the modulation of histone deacetylase activity exerted by resveratrol.