The biosensitivity of certain organs in rats exposed to low doses of γ-radiation

Trace elements as Fe, Cu, Zn and Ca are essential for life. They approximately involved in all living processes, they play an important role in the hormones and enzymes activities. The present study demonstrate the biosensitivity of certain organs (spleen, intestine, heart and brain) in rats exposed to low doses of γ-radiation by determine the effectiveness on essential metal levels. Rats were exposed to 0.06, 0.126 and 0.227 Gy as a total doses at a low dose rate 2.5 mGy/h by two models of exposure, continuous and fractionated (along one and two weeks). Results indicated that the metal levels affected by the time exposure and organ sensitivity. Continuous exposure manifested increase in brain Fe, spleen Cu and Ca and decrease Ca in intestine and brain at all doses. After one week, intestine Cu and heart Zn decreased. After two weeks, decrease in Fe levels was observed in intestine, heart and brain at all doses. Also heart Zn and brain Ca decreased, Ca heart increased where Cu exhibit elevation in spleen and lowering in intestine at all doses. The statistic analysis presented significant effect between groups according the time factor and/or dose levels on Fe and Ca in all organs. Also significant effect present in Zn levels due to the time factor and/or dose levels in all organs except intestine. In conclusion, the rat organs have been responded to the low doses of γ-radiation at low dose rate by significant changes in essential metals concentrations.