Hydrogen-rich saline protects immunocytes from radiation-induced apoptosis

Abstract

Background: Radiation often causes depletion of immunocytes in tissues and blood, which results in immuno suppression. Molecular hydrogen (H2) has been shown in recent studies to have potential as a safe and effective radioprotective agent through scavenging free radicals. This study was designed to test the hypothesis that H2 could protect immunocytes from ionizing radiation (IR). Material/Methods: H2 was dissolved in physiological saline or medium using an apparatus produced by our depart ment. A 2-[6-(4’-hydroxy) phenoxy-3H-xanthen-3-on-9-yl] benzoate (HPF) probe was used to de tect intracellular hydroxyl radicals (•OH). Cell apoptosis was evaluated by annexin V-FITC and Propidium iodide (PI) staining as well as the caspase 3 activity. Finally, we examined the hemato logical changes using an automatic Sysmex XE 2100 hematology analyzer. Results: We demonstrated H2-rich medium pretreatment reduced •OH level in AHH-1 cells. We also showed H2 reduced radiation-induced apoptosis in thymocytes and splenocytes in living mice. Radiation- induced caspase 3 activation was also attenuated by H2 treatment. Finally, we found that H2 res cued the radiation-caused depletion of white blood cells (WBC) and platelets (PLT). Conclusions: This study suggests that H2 protected the immune system and alleviated the hematological injury induced by IR.

Study details

Article type

Original Research

Disease / injury model

Radiation-induced immunosuppression

Duration

1 days

Dose-dependent effect

No

Outcome

Positive

Findings

Hydrogen-rich saline pretreatment reduced radiation-induced hydroxyl radical levels, decreased apoptosis in thymocytes and splenocytes, attenuated caspase 3 activation, and rescued the depletion of white blood cells and platelets in irradiated mice, suggesting protection of the immune system and alleviation of hematological injury.