University of Saskatchewan|Université de la Saskatchewan

Purpose

Radioprotectors are needed to protect astronauts from detrimental effects of space radiation. Melanin is known to protect fungi and other organisms from high doses of ionizing radiation. Thus, melanin-based radioprotectors could help solve the problem of radioprotection in space. This project will investigate the protective anti-carcinogenesis effects of melanin-containing black mushrooms when ingested, study its effect on preventing colon cancer, and evaluate the radioprotective effects on melanin-containing materials on the central nervous system. This research could also have benefits on Earth, since radioprotectors are also needed for protection of cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.