Targeting the Oxidative Stress Pathway: An Innovative Approach with Misoprostol and Low-Dose Gamma Radiation to Counteract Paraquat-Induced Lung Injury in Rats

Background: Paraquat, a widely used herbicide, is notorious for its severe oxidative damage to pulmonary tissues, mediated through excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Objective: This study investigates a novel therapeutic strategy combining misoprostol and low-dose gamma radiation to mitigate paraquat-induced lung injury in rats.Materials and methods: Key oxidative stress biomarkers, including glutathione peroxidase (GPx), malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), and nitric oxide (NO), were evaluated to elucidate the underlying protective mechanisms. Results: Our findings reveal that paraquat significantly elevated MDA and NO levels, indicative of lipid peroxidation and nitrosative stress, while depleting GPx activity and GSH content, impairing the antioxidant defense system. Remarkably, treatment with misoprostol, either alone or synergistically with low-dose gamma radiation, restored GPx activity and GSH levels while attenuating MDA and NO concentrations. The combined intervention demonstrated superior efficacy, suggesting an additive or synergistic effect in combating oxidative stress and restoring redox homeostasis.Conclusion: This unprecedented approach highlights the potential of targeting oxidative stress pathways using dual interventions to counteract paraquat-induced pulmonary toxicity. These findings pave the way for developing innovative therapeutic protocols for oxidative stress-related lung injuries.