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Low-dose proton induced genetic alteration in cingulate cortex and declined its relevant cognitive function in
Gyutae Kim1, Hyelim Park1, Kyu-Sung Kim1,2
1Research Institute for Aerospace Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, Republic of Korea.
Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience
|March 25, 2025
Summary
Low-dose proton radiation caused temporary genetic changes in mouse brains, with delayed, limited effects on cognitive behaviors. These findings are crucial for astronaut health and clinical proton use regulations.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Radiation Biology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Environmental radiation, particularly low-dose proton exposure, poses potential health risks to the central nervous system (CNS).
- Previous studies suggest a cognitive threat from proton radiation, but inconsistent behavioral responses to low doses have made effects elusive.
- Understanding long-term effects of low-dose radiation is critical for managing health risks in clinical and space environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the functional changes induced by low-dose proton radiation in the CNS.
- To evaluate both genetic and behavioral responses to low-dose proton exposure in a mouse model.
- To determine the temporal relationship between genetic alterations and behavioral changes following irradiation.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-four male C57BL/6 mice were exposed to low-dose proton radiation.
- Genetic effects were assessed in the cingulate cortex (CC), a key cognitive region, by measuring gene expression.
- Behavioral responses were evaluated using the open field test (OFT) and radial maze test (RMT) at various time points post-irradiation.
Main Results:
- Peak inflammatory genetic responses (HSPA, GFAP, MBP, NEFL, NEFM) were observed at 4 weeks post-irradiation, resolving by 3 months.
- Significant decreases in moving distance and speed were noted after 4 weeks in the OFT, indicating altered motor function.
- No significant behavioral differences were found in the radial maze test, suggesting specific cognitive functions were less affected.
Conclusions:
- Low-dose proton radiation induces reversible genetic alterations in brain regions associated with cognition.
- The delayed behavioral effects observed were limited and dependent on the specific cognitive function being assessed.
- Findings provide essential data for developing health regulations for astronauts and guiding the clinical application of proton therapy.
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