Drug protection against radiation-induced neurological injury: mechanisms and developments

In daily life, individuals are frequently exposed to various forms of radiation, which, when adhering to safety standards, typically result in relatively minor health effects. However, accidental exposure to radiation levels that exceed these safety standards can lead to significant health consequences. This study focuses on the analysis of radiation-induced damage to the nervous system and the mechanisms of pharmacological protection. The findings indicate that radiation can adversely affect neural structures, memory, and neurobehaviour. A range of pharmacological agents, including traditional Chinese medicine, Western medicine, and other therapeutic drugs, can be employed to safeguard the nervous system from radiation damage. The primary protective mechanisms of these agents encompass antioxidant effects, attenuation of apoptosis, and reduction of neurogenesis. A comprehensive review of these topics will offer new insights for the development and investigation of drugs aimed at mitigating radiation-induced damage to the nervous system.