Ionizing radiation and radiation-related oxidative stress are two important factors responsible for the death of actively proliferating cells, thus drastically reducing the regeneration capacity of living organisms. Planarian flatworms are freshwater invertebrates that are rich in stem cells called neoblasts and, therefore, present a well-established model for studies on regeneration and the testing of novel antioxidant and radioprotective substances. In this work, we tested an antiviral and antioxidant drug Tameron (Monosodium α-Luminol or 5-amino-2,3-dihydro-1,4-phthalazinedione sodium salt) for its ability to reduce the harm of X-ray- and chemically induced oxidative stress on a planarian model. Our study has revealed the ability of Tameron to effectively protect planarians from oxidative stress while enhancing their regenerative capacity by modulating the expression of neoblast marker genes and NRF-2-controlled oxidative stress response genes.

Coronavirus infection has caused a global pandemic with high mortality rates among the population of different countries. Drugs for non-specific immunotherapy of this infection based on sodium aminodihydrophthalazinedione (in particular, Tameron) were not considered for this purpose. It has immunomodulatory properties, and its use is not accompanied by side effects. Tameron can become a potential complex drug for the treatment of coronavirus infection COVID-19 and its use is especially important in confined spaces on ships and vessels of the military and civilian fleets.