Assessing the Protective Effects of Pioglitazone on Radiation-Induced Cardiac Injury in an In Vivo Model: A Biochemical and Histopathological Investigation.

Introduction: RIHD is a significant complication in cancer radiotherapy, caused by oxidative stress and tissue damage. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of PGZ pretreatment against RIHD by assessing oxidative stress markers, enzyme levels, biochemical parameters, and cardiac tissue changes in a mouse model.

Materials & Methods: 72 BALB/c mice were randomly divided into eight groups: control, PGZ (10, 20, and 30 mg/kg), IR (8 Gy), and IR + PGZ (at three doses). PGZ was administered daily for 10 days before exposure to RT on Day 11. 24 hours post-irradiation, cardiac tissues were analyzed for MDA levels, GPX and GSH concentrations, and serum markers including LDH and CPK. Histopathological examination was performed at 1 week and 1 month after irradiation to evaluate early inflammatory changes and late fibrosis.

Results: Results showed GPX activity increased by 28.2% and 48.4%, and GSH levels rose by 37.6% and 52.9% at doses of 20 and 30 mg/kg PGZ. MDA levels decreased by 40.35% and 52.63% at doses of 20 and 30 mg/kg, respectively. Serum LDH was reduced by 36.2% at 30 mg/kg. Tissue damage was significantly mitigated, with reductions of 88.9% at one week and 91.2% at one month. Fibrosis reduction was 23.5%, 41.5%, and 53.3% for 10, 20, and 30 mg doses.

Discussion: The findings highlight PGZ's potential to protect against RIHD via antioxidant enhancement; however, further clinical validation and exploration of long-term safety are essential.

Conclusions: PGZ shows promise in reducing RIHD by enhancing antioxidants and decreasing tissue damage, warranting further clinical investigation.