Photosensitized haemolysis of human erythrocytes is reduced by bendazac.

: Bendazac is a drug previously reported to prevent protein denaturation produced by various agents, including free radicals. Results of these experiments show that bendazac also prevents the photosensitized haemolysis of intact red blood cells which is related to damage of membrane proteins and/or lipids induced by reactive species originating from oxygen. Based on results of a previous study, it is proposed that the antioxidant activity of bendazac is due to interaction with protein molecules rather than free radicals. The protective activity of bendazac against photo-oxidative damage might have therapeutic implications in conditions such as cataract and haemolytic anaemias.