Differential modification of oxic and anoxic radiation damage by S-2-(3-aminopropylamino) ethylphosphorothioic acid (WR-2721) in Hordeum vulgare

Abstract

Modification of radiosensitivity of oxic and anoxic damage in ‘dry’ as well as ‘metabolizing’ barley seeds by S-2-(3-aminopropylamino) ethylphosphorothioic acid (WR-2721) was investigated. It was found that WR-2721, a well-known euoxic radioprotector in several mammalian systems, enters into the seeds as an intact entity and confers significant radioprotection against the oxic damage in both ‘dry’ and ‘metabolizing’ systems. Potentiation of the anoxic damage is confined to the ‘dry’ seeds only. The probable mechanism of action is discussed.