Effect of X-Irradiation and Choline on the Reticulo-Endothelial System of the Rat

Abstract

The vascular clearance and organ distribution of radioactive colloidal gold was studied in normal, choline treated, and whole body X-irradiated rats at 4, 24, 48, and 72 hours after 1040 r. Choline administration for 3 days resulted in increased phagocytic velocity and elevated phagocytic efficiency. The liver, lung and spleen content of Au198 was unaltered in the choline treated group. The overall phagocytic function, as indicated by the rate of removal of Aul98 from the vascular system, was essentially normal. The reticulo-endothelial system (RES) of liver was markedly depressed in rats subjected to irradiation immediately after the injection of Aul98 and at 24, and 48 hours post irradiation. At other time periods, normal activity was noted, suggesting "expansion" of the RES. Spleen was markedly depressed at 48 hours post irradiation, while lung showed normal or hyperactivity at all time periods.