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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
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A Co-culture Method to Investigate the Crosstalk Between X-ray Irradiated Caco-2 Cells and PBMC
Published on: January 30, 2018
STUDIES ON X-RAY EFFECTS : II. STIMULATIVE ACTION ON THE LYMPHOCYTES
M M Thomas1, H D Taylor, W D Witherbee
1Laboratories of The Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research.
The Journal of Experimental Medicine
|October 30, 2009
Summary
X-ray exposure in rabbits led to an increase in circulating lymphocytes in most subjects. This finding suggests a potential radiosensitivity of lymphocytes to specific x-ray parameters.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Radiation Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- X-rays are known to affect biological systems.
- The impact of specific x-ray parameters on blood cell counts, particularly lymphocytes, requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of a specific x-ray exposure on blood counts in rabbits.
- To determine if x-ray exposure influences the number of circulating lymphocytes.
Main Methods:
- Nine rabbits were exposed to x-rays with defined parameters (7/8 inch spark-gap, 25 mA, 8 inches, 20 minutes).
- Blood counts were performed to analyze changes in circulating lymphocytes.
- A higher penetrating dose was administered to two rabbits for comparison.
Main Results:
- Seven out of nine rabbits showed an increase in circulating lymphocytes post-exposure.
- Five rabbits exhibited a marked increase, while two showed a definite but less pronounced increase.
- Two rabbits with unstable baseline counts or minimal changes did not show stimulation; a higher dose yielded no significant stimulation.
Conclusions:
- Specific x-ray parameters can stimulate an increase in circulating lymphocytes in rabbits.
- Lymphocyte response to x-rays may vary based on individual animal factors and radiation dose intensity.
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