Saving Lives Following Lethal Radiation Exposure

A potent molecule protects against lethal, whole-body radiation when administered before, during, or up to 24 hours after exposure.

RX100 is a small-molecule analog of an endogenous, pro-survival molecule that is metabolically stabilized. The product boosts natural mechanisms that promote and sustain cell survival in almost every cell type and at the same time inhibits the cascade leading to programmed cell death (apoptosis). A potent radioprotectant and radiomitigator, RX100 acts as a specific activator of natural, nontoxic, protective mechanisms of cell survival. Animal studies have demonstrated that RX100 can prevent death if given before or during lethal radiation exposure, and rescue life if administered up to 24 hours after lethal, whole-body radiation exposure, although maximum benefit is derived if the product is administered within 6-12 hours following exposure.

In addition, RX100 protects the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, whether administered subcutaneously or orally. Among other things, it prevents the disintegration of the mucosal barrier, preventing diarrhea and overwhelming bacterial infections, potentially severe side effects from radiation exposures. RX100 is a product of RxBio (Johnson City, TN, USA), and was developed at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC; Memphis, USA; www.utmem.edu).

"RX100 can be formulated for a wide range of patient types--from infants to the elderly--and can be administered either orally or subcutaneously,” said Dr. W. Shannon McCool, CEO of RxBio.


Related Links:
RxBio
University of Tennessee Health Science Center