Effects of ascorbic acid (AA), ascorbic acid glycoside (AAG) and alpha-tocopherol monoglycoside (TMG) on radiation - and H(2)O(2)-induced decomposition of thymine in aqueous solutions were investigated. Of the three compounds studied, AAG was found to possess the most marked protector properties. An explanation of this phenomenon has been given in terms of differences in molecular structures of AA and AAG, as well as properties of radical adducts formed during their interaction with OH radicals.