Effect of low dose gamma rays on certain essential metals and oxidative stress in different rat organs

Abstract The present work aimed to determine the effect of low dose (0.03 Gy) γ-rays on certain essential metals namely Fe, Cu, Zn and Ca levels in various tissues (liver, kidney, testis, spleen, intestine, heart and brain) in rats. Also, lipid peroxidation as malondialdehyde (MDA) and metallothionein (MT) levels were measured in liver, kidney and testis. Rats were exposed to total dose of 0.03 Gy γ-rays along 12 h at a low dose rate (2.5 mGy/h). The results obtained manifested elevation in all essential metals studied in liver. All organs showed elevated Ca levels except that of brain with non-significant change in intestine. Decrease in Fe levels were observed in kidney, testis, intestine, heart and brain tissues with insignificant change in spleen tissue. Elevation in MDA in liver and kidney tissues was recorded and an inhibition in MT in liver, kidney and testis tissues was demonstrated. In conclusion, the previous essential metals tested are very sensitive to low dose (0.03 Gy) γ-rays. Such dose can induce alterations in the oxidative stress parameters under investigation.