Anti-ulcer activity of IAC, a novel free-radical scavenger, in rats

Abstract

Abstract Objectives We investigated the ability of a novel low-molecular-weight free-radical scavenger, bis(1-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-4-piperidinyl)-decandioate (IAC), to protect the gastric mucosa from indometacin-induced ulceration. Methods The pharmacological effects of IAC, administered orally or by intraperitoneal injection, on the gastric mucosa were assessed in a rat model of gastric ulceration induced by indometacin. The effect of IAC on the level of prostaglandin PGE2 in the gastric mucosa was also investigated. Results IAC, which has no ulcerative activity per se, had a preventive and protective activity against indometacin-induced gastric ulceration. This effect could be only partially attributed to a modulatory effect of IAC on PGE2 levels; it is more likely to be due to the antioxidant activity of the compound. Conclusions Taking into account the properties of IAC and the mechanisms underlying gastric inflammation elicited by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, IAC may represent a novel anti-ulcer agent.