[Activation of free-radical processes as a factor of ionizing radiation-induced changes in contractile activity of a...

The influence of ionizing irradiation (1, 2 and 4 Gy 137Cs) on both the activity of free-radical processes in plasma, formed elements and aorta wall as well as on the character of contractile vascular reactions of isolated rings of thoracic aorta and carotid artery in rabbits has been studied. The experiments were carried out on the 7th day after the whole-body irradiation. The results indicate that simultaneously with the weakening of antioxidant mechanisms both endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent vascular wall relaxation slightly decreases after 1 Gy exposure. Noradrenaline and KCI-induced contraction is shown to increase. However, these changes are not statistically significant. Irradiation in dose of 2 and 4 Gy considerably decreases endothelium-dependent relaxation. Nitroglycerin-induced relaxation greatly diminishes, KCI- and noradrenaline-induced constriction considerably increases in these conditions. The level of activation of free-radical processes considerably increases too. Thus, already on the 7th day after irradiation significant changes in reactivity of vascular wall are developed. Radiation injures both endothelium and vascular smooth muscle cells. The free-radical processes seem to be the main cause of radiation vascular damage, so there is a pronounced correlation between the changes of vascular contractile properties and the degree of activation of these processes.