2Deparment of Pathology, Mehmet Akif Ersoy University, Burdur-Türkiye
3Deparment of Biochemistry, Süleyman Demirel University, Isparta-Türkiye DOI : 10.5505/tjo.2022.3614 OBJECTIVE
Radiation (RT)-induced intestinal toxicity is a common complication of abdominal or pelvic radiation therapy. Although the underlying pathological features are partially clarified, the appropriate treatment approach is not yet clear. Herein, we sought the protective role of astaxanthin (ATX), which is a natural antioxidant, on the RT-induced toxicity in the rat intestine.
METHODS
Male Wistar rats that are 10-12 weeks old and weighing 250-350 g were divided into four groups: control,
RT alone, RT+ATX, and ATX alone as Groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. RT was given to the
abdomen as one fraction of 8 Gy, and ATX was given as 4 mg/kg for 7 days before RT. Intestinal tissues
were taken 24 h after the last ATX injection and radiation for histopathologic, immunohistochemical
examination, and oxidative stress measurement.
RESULTS
Oxidative stress index and oxidant status decreased with ATX administration in the radiation group
where an increase was reported in total antioxidant status. ATX treatment decreased the pathological
expressions observed in the proprial and epithelial cells of the intestinal villi in the RT group. Similarly,
RT exposure increased TNF-? expression while ATX treatment decreased the immunoreaction.
CONCLUSION
Our results demonstrate that radiation induces apoptosis and histopathologic intestinal mucosal changes
which leads to an increase in oxidative stress. ATX significantly ameliorates radiation-induced reactions
with its superior antioxidant properties and additional anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic activities.