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Excretion of carcinoma products in irradiated C3H/He mice

Cancer Research
|February 1, 1981
PubMed

Insights

Low-dose gamma irradiation of kidneys in tumor-bearing mice impaired tumor product excretion and reduced survival. Irradiated mice receiving ascites fluid experienced mortality, unlike controls, indicating kidney irradiation

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Radiation Biology
  • Nephrology

Background:

  • Ascites tumors can produce substances that affect host physiology.
  • Kidney function is crucial for clearing metabolic byproducts.
  • The impact of localized kidney irradiation on tumor-bearing hosts is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of local low-dose gamma irradiation on kidney function in mice with ascites carcinomas.
  • To assess the impact of such irradiation on the excretion of tumor products and overall survival.
  • To determine if ascites fluid itself poses a toxicity risk to irradiated kidneys.

Main Methods:

  • Mice bearing ascites form carcinomas were subjected to local low-dose (200 rads) gamma irradiation to both kidneys.
  • Excretion of 3H-labeled tumor products was monitored.
  • Tumor-free mice received daily intraperitoneal injections of cell-free ascites fluid for 3 weeks, with some groups being irradiated.
  • Kidney histology was examined.

Main Results:

  • Kidney irradiation significantly impaired the excretion of 3H-labeled tumor products.
  • Irradiated mice with ascites tumors exhibited reduced survival times.
  • Intraperitoneal injection of cell-free ascites fluid led to mortality in irradiated mice but not in unirradiated controls.
  • Histological examination revealed cloudy swelling of renal tubular epithelium and protein accumulation in irradiated kidneys.

Conclusions:

  • Local low-dose gamma irradiation of kidneys negatively impacts tumor product excretion and survival in mice with ascites carcinomas.
  • Irradiated kidneys are susceptible to damage from ascites fluid components, leading to toxicity and mortality.
  • These findings highlight the critical role of kidney function in managing tumor burden and the potential adverse effects of radiation therapy on renal health.

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