Does a very low dose of chronic γ-irradiation induce a neuron loss in mice?. (3rd October 2005)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Collin, L.; Lacroix-Triki, M.; Caratero, C.; Jozan, S.; Courtade, M.
• Is Part Of: International journal of low radiation. Volume 2:Number 1/2(2006)
• Page Start: 34
• Page End: 44
• Publication Date: 2005-10-03
• Subjects: ionising radiation -- low dose -- C57Bl/6J mice -- glutathione -- neuron loss -- low radiation -- chronic irradiation -- hippocampus -- brain cells -- brain cell adaptation; Radiobiology -- Periodicals; Radiation -- Health aspects -- Periodicals; Radiation tolerance -- Periodicals; 571.4505
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1477-6545

Abstract

Little is known about the effects of a very low dose of chronic irradiation on the brain. We have analysed brain sections from continuously irradiated (10 cGy/year - γ-rays) and control C57Bl/6J mice at various times. We have established a neuron/astrocyte ratio in the CA1 of the hippocampus, measured the glutathione content of the hippocampus area and looked for the presence of PCNA-positive cells suggestive of immature stem cells. No difference was observed in the neurone/astrocyte ratio either with ageing or after irradiation. There was a significant increase in the glutathione content in the hippocampus area with ageing and after 24 months of irradiation. A slight increase of PCNA-positive cells was observed with ageing, especially after irradiation. These results suggest that a chronic very low dose of γ-irradiation does not induce a neuron loss. Increased levels of glutathione and of PCNA-positive cells may suggest an adaptation of brain cells to the radiation factor.