Biochemical effects of low-dose whole body x-irradiation on mouse liver and the protective action of ectoine

摘要

Purpose: To investigate the possible role of ectoine, which is known to protect protein hydration and folding and structural organization of biological membranes, in protecting mouse liver against low-dose x-irradiation. Methods: The study included thirty Swiss albino mice weighing 20 - 22 g each, which were divided into five groups of six animals each: group (1) na?ve animals serving as control, group (2) animals irradiated with a whole-body 2 Gy single dose of x-ray, and sacrificed after one day, group (3) x-irradiated and sacrificed after one week (each animal in the 3 groups received 0.2 mL saline daily by oral gavage). Group 4 consisted of x-irradiated animals dosed with ectoine 200 mg/kg in saline and sacrificed after one day. Group 5 cmoprised of x-irradiated animals and were dosed daily with ectoine 200 mg/kg and sacrificed after one week. The evaluated inflammation parameters in the animals’ liver were interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Furthermore, the oxidative stress parameters, viz, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and their ratio (GSH/GSSG) were also assessed. Results: Whole body low-dose x-irradiation resulted in statistically significant (p ≤ 0.05) increases in all ILs tested as well as PGE2 of mice liver. Indications of oxidative stress included elevated levels of MDA and oxidized glutathione with decreased reduced glutathione. The effects of radiation were progressive and the changes in the tested parameters increased from day 1 to day 7. Administration of ectoine significantly (p ≤ 0.05) ameliorated the biochemical effects induced by whole body x-irradiation. Furthermore, the modulating action was dependent on the accumulation of ectoine, as it was more effective after repeated administration. Conclusion: Ectoine has a post-irradiation protective effect on mouse liver via its action on inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. It probably has similar action in other vital organs. Preventive treatment of healthcare personnel and technicians frequently exposed to low doses of radiation with ectoine is worth investigating.