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Early physiologic and biochemical effects of thoracic x-irradiation on the pulmonary surfactant system. [Mice]

Journal Article · · J. Lab. Clin. Med.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5111555

A study of surfactant physiology and biochemistry was undertaken in mice who received varying doses of x-irradiation to the thorax. During the first 12 weeks after x-irradiation, the period which precedes radiation pneumonitis, there is an increase in the amount of DPC in both the lung and the alveolar surface lining layer. This increase begins about 7 days after irradiation, returns to control levels by 12 weeks, and coincides with a fall in the total number of AM's. Over-all synthesis of DPC in the lung and its transport to the alveolar surface, as determined by incorporation of /sup 3/H from glycerol and /sup 14/C from palmitate into PC in vivo, remained unchanged from control levels. These results may be explained in part by proliferation of type 2 pneumocytes following x-irradiation and by decreased removal of surfactant from the alveolar surface, possibly as a result of the depletion of the AM population. No changes in mechanical properties of the lung or in situ E tis or E surf occurred at this stage, nor were changes detected in the surface properties of the alveolar lavage fluid.

Research Organization:
Univ. of Chicago
OSTI ID:
5111555
Journal Information:
J. Lab. Clin. Med.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Lab. Clin. Med.; (United States) Vol. 91:3; ISSN JLCMA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English