Effects of X-Ray Radiation on Oxidation Products of Nitric Oxide in Rabbits Treated With Antioxidant Compounds

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of supplemental antioxidant vitamins and minerals on the nitric oxide oxidation products nitrite and nitrate in rabbits after exposure to X-rays. Methods: The animals were divided into two experimental, one control group. The vitamin-supplemented group was given daily oral doses of vitamins E and C. Supplemental amounts of manganese, zinc, and copper were mixed with the feed and given to the mineral-supplemented group. Blood samples were taken from all groups before and after 4 weeks of vitamin and mineral administration and after irradiation with 550-rad X-rays. The nitric oxide oxidation products levels were analyzed in blood serum. Results: After irradiation, the control group showed increased levels of nitric oxide oxidation products (p<0.05). In the vitamin group, the concentration of nitric oxide oxidation products was lower (p<0.05) when compared to controls. In the MG, the mineral treatment was not affected nitric oxide oxidation products, but, irradiation was increased nitrate levels. Conclusion: It is concluded that the elevated levels of nitrate and nitrite concentrations in serum is the result of damage caused by the x-ray radiation. The results suggest that supplementation with antioxidant vitamins and minerals may serve to reinforce the antioxidant systems, thus having a protective effect against cell damage by X-rays.