Effects of Space Radiation on Humoral and Cellular Immunity in Rhesus Monkeys.

摘要

The objective of this study was to complete profiles of immune competence in rhesus monkeys more than 25 years after single exposures to protons of different energies. Access to irradiated animals provided a unique opportunity to study late effects on the immune systems of nonhuman primates; late immunological defects could be relevant to astronauts and high-flying pilots. Working with the primate model allowed us to assess the possible late effects of ionizing radiations on parameters associated with B-cell and T-cell functions. Antibody-mediated immune (AMI) function was investigated by measuring immunoglobulin (Ig) levels, hemolytic complement activity, and autoantibodies. Cell-mediated immune (CMI) function was evaluated by measuring selected T- and B-cell activities as well as responses to mitogens and interleukin production. There were no significant differences between control and irradiated animals for most parameters measured in this survey, but some reduction in spontaneous proliferation was noted in irradiated primates. With regard to late risks for humans following exposure(s) to ionizing radiations, it is encouraging that few late immunobiological effects were exhibited by primate survivors of low and intermediate doses of protons.... Late effects, Proton irradiation, Immunobiology, Aging.