International Journal of Advanced Biological and Biomedical Research

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37
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Synergistic Effects of Dietary Vitamins on Radiation-Induced Carcinogenesis: Mechanisms and Translational Perspectives

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

Michael Oluwafemi Areola 1
Adeyemi Monday 2
Maryjane Ogochukwu Nwankwo 3
Oladimeji Desmond Adeboye 4
Chukwudiebube Christian Mba 5
Oluwafunto Michael Adejo 4

1 Department of Chemistry, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, University of Georgia, GA, USA

2 School of Biomedical Engineering, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China

3 Department of Biomedical Technology, School of Health Technology, Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria

4 Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Nigeria

5 Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria

10.48309/ijabbr.2026.2071953.1665
Abstract
Ionizing radiation is a well-recognized human carcinogen arising from environmental and medical exposures such as diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy. Its carcinogenic potential is mainly mediated through DNA strand breaks, excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), sustained oxidative stress, and genomic instability that collectively drive malignant transformation. Dietary vitamins have demonstrated potential in modulating these radiation-induced mechanisms through their antioxidant, DNA-repair, and regulatory activities. This review attempts to assess the present knowledge of vitamins A, C, D, E, and B complex in restricting radiation associated carcinogenesis. Vitamins C and E are key antioxidants and prevent the formation of ROS during radiolysis and the peroxidation of cell membrane lipids, respectively. Folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 are responsible for regulating one-carbon metabolism, DNA synthesis and methylation thus ensuring chromosomal integrity. Vitamin D, through its receptor (VDR), promotes DNA repair, regulates apoptosis, and enhances immune defense, while vitamin A derivatives maintain epithelial integrity and exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. Together, these nutrients regulate cell cycle regulation, epigenetic stability, and oxidative damage. As evidence, there appears to be a possible advantage for combined supplementation compared to single agents. However, the clinical results are situation-specific, as illustrated by the chronic increase in risk for lung cancer with excessive intake of the beta-carotene in smokers. Future trials will need to improve dosage, timing, and personalized approaches for safe use of vitamins in cancer prevention.
 

Graphical Abstract

Synergistic Effects of Dietary Vitamins on Radiation-Induced Carcinogenesis: Mechanisms and Translational Perspectives

Keywords

Apoptosis
Cancer
Chemoprevention
Micronutrients
Retinoids
Vitamin D

Subjects

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International Journal of Advanced Biological and Biomedical Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 25 January 2026

  • Receive Date 17 September 2025
  • Revise Date 19 October 2025
  • Accept Date 22 November 2025

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