Paeoniflorin protects human EA.hy926 endothelial cells against gamma-radiation induced oxidative injury by activating the NF-E2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 pathway

► EA.hy926 endothelial cells were treated with Paeoniflorin prior to radiation. ► The cell apoptosis was inhibited while the cell viability was enhanced. ► Paeoniflorin reduced ROS and enhanced endogenous antioxidants in EA.hy926 cells. ► The protective effect of Paeoniflorin involved in activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. ► Paeoniflorin offer a potential application in treating radiation-induced injury.