Radioprotective Potential of a Polyphenol-Rich Extract Blend: Preclinical Evaluation in Female Balb/c Mice Exposed to Ionizing Radiation

Radiation is widely used in cancer therapy but also damages healthy tissues through oxidative stress or inflammation. In addition to cancer patients, many professionals are occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation (IR). Natural compounds, particularly polyphenols, have been increasingly investigated as potential radioprotective agents to minimize side effects in both patients and occupationally exposed individuals. This study evaluated the radioprotective effects of a polyphenol-rich extract blend derived from chokeberry, elderberry, blackcurrant, and evening primrose in female Balb/c mice exposed to acute IR. The animals were pre-treated with the blend (100 mg/kg) for 7 days prior to whole-body IR at 6 Gy. Hematological parameters, immune cell viability, TNF-α level, gene expression, lipid peroxidation, and tissue morphology were assessed by hematology analysis, flow cytometry, ELISA, qRT-PCR, MDA assay, and histology. IR significantly reduced leukocyte (3.22-fold; <i>p</i> < 0.0001) and platelet counts (1.37-fold; <i>p</i> < 0.0001), increased TNF-α levels (53.93%; <i>p</i> < 0.0001), and elevated oxidative stress. Pre-treatment with the blend restored hematological parameters, reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, and normalized genes regulating oxidative stress and apoptosis. Histology confirmed preserved liver and kidney structures compared with irradiated controls. These findings highlight the polyphenol-rich extract blend as a promising natural radioprotective agent by modulating immune responses, reducing oxidative stress, and preserving tissue integrity.