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The effects of PSK, a biological response modifier, on congenital ocular abnormalities induced by X-ray irradiation
H Matsui1, T Setogawa, H Naora
1Department of Ophthalmology, Shimane Medical University, Japan.
Abstract:
The antiteratogenic effects of PSK, a biological response modifier, were examined using histological and developmental analysis. The whole bodies of pregnant mice were irradiated with X-rays and injected with PSK within ten minutes after irradiation on day 7 of gestation (E7). The foetuses on E18 were examined and a high incidence of malformations were observed in X-ray irradiated embryos. Microphthalmia was the most frequent malformation. PSK administration suppressed the X-ray irradiation-induced ocular anomalies in not only the frequency, as deduced by external observation, but also in histopathological changes in the retina, lens, and cornea. In particular, the incidence of lens aplasia was significantly decreased by PSK administration. Developmental analysis using E10 and E13 embryos revealed that the decrease in the incidence of histopathological changes was first observed within 72 hours after PSK administration. In addition, X-ray irradiation-induced early foetal death (E10-13) was also suppressed by PSK administration. The possible mechanisms of the antiteratogenic effects of PSK are discussed.
Insights
Polysaccharide-K (PSK) demonstrated antiteratogenic effects, significantly reducing X-ray induced malformations in mouse embryos, particularly ocular anomalies. PSK also decreased early fetal death, suggesting protective properties against radiation teratogenicity.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Radiation Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- X-ray irradiation during gestation can cause significant embryonic malformations.
- Ocular anomalies, such as microphthalmia and lens aplasia, are common radiation-induced defects.
- Biological response modifiers are being investigated for protective effects against teratogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the antiteratogenic potential of Polysaccharide-K (PSK) against X-ray induced developmental abnormalities.
- To assess the impact of PSK on the frequency and severity of fetal malformations, specifically ocular defects.
- To evaluate PSK's effect on early embryonic lethality following radiation exposure.
Main Methods:
- Pregnant mice were irradiated on day 7 of gestation and administered PSK within ten minutes post-irradiation.
- Histological and developmental analyses were performed on E18, E13, and E10 fetuses.
- External observation and histopathological examination of ocular structures (retina, lens, cornea) were conducted.
Main Results:
- X-ray irradiation led to a high incidence of fetal malformations, with microphthalmia being most frequent.
- PSK administration significantly suppressed the frequency and histopathological severity of X-ray induced ocular anomalies.
- PSK notably decreased the incidence of lens aplasia and reduced early fetal death between E10-13.
Conclusions:
- Polysaccharide-K (PSK) exhibits significant antiteratogenic effects against X-ray induced developmental toxicity in mice.
- PSK effectively mitigates radiation-induced ocular malformations and early embryonic lethality.
- The findings suggest PSK as a potential protective agent against developmental damage from ionizing radiation.