Dual nature of effect of propyl gallate on DNA subjected to irradiation

Propyl gallate (PG) was added to solutions of DNA before irradiation and the radioprotective effect was assessed by changes in the viscosity of the DNA solutions. The time of reaction on PG with the macromolecule before irradiation was varied and the degree of conversion of the PG by oxidation was also varied. Results showed that the radioprotective effects of propyl gallate varied significantly depending on conditions of treatment due to interaction of radical and nonradical PG conversion products with DNA. (HLW)