Possible Prophylactic Efficacy of Aloe Vera for γ-Ray Radiation- Induced Damages

Abstract

Aloe vera gel has been widely used for healing of burn wound and radiation-induced photo-skin damages under the duration of grade<2 mucositis, and positive or negative response to in vivo γ-ray radiation-induced tissue alterations and a possible prophylactic efficacy of aloe vera were comparatively evaluated in the review. Since aloe vera wound dressing gel reduced γ-ray radiation-induced skin reactions in C3H mice by daily application for at least 2-weeks beginning immediately after radiation, a possible participation of aloe polysaccharides in aloe vera gel was demonstrated for γ-ray radiation-induced skin damages. In vitro and in vivo insulin permeation enhancements by aloe vera gel were clearly revealed from the viewpoint of drug delivery system, and the treatment of insulin resistant mice with the polyphenol-rich aloe vera extract diminished their insulin resistance. Modified aloe vera polysaccharides with aloe phenolic chromones, aloesin groups, decreased in insulin level observed in subjects in condition of pre-diabetic/metabolic syndrome. Therefore, the possible prophylactic efficacy of aloe vera extract for γ-ray radiation-induced skin damages may be resulted from synergistic effects taking place between phenolic ingredients; chromones and aloe polysaccharides as adjuvants. The pro-inflammation studies on insulin response, resistance and/or sensitivity of aloe phenolic ingredient(s) and polysaccharides are needed to confirm possible prophylactic benefits of aloe vera gel for photo/γ-ray radiation-induced skin damages, wound healing-and regeneration, and the prevention of age-related pathology.