A model demonstrating how MnTE-2-PyP could work as a radioprotectant.

<p>We have shown that the potent antioxidant, MnTE-2-PyP protects normal tissues from irradiation-induced damage. We hypothesize that MnTE-2-PyP can inhibit injury of healthy bystander tissues by inhibiting inflammation driven by oxidative stress. We also hypothesize that MnTE-2-PyP has no effect on the killing of tumor cells due to the inability of MnTE-2-PyP to scavenge the damaging hydroxyl radical release caused by irradiation. Thus, MnTE-2-PyP can protect normal tissue from irradiation damage while not compromising the ability of irradiation to effectively kill tumor cells.