Adaptive response in embryogenesis: VI. Comparative microarray analysis of gene expressions in mouse fetuses

Purpose: Exposure of sublethal doses of ionizing radiation can induce protective mechanisms against a subsequent higher dose irradiation. This phenomenon, called radiation-induced adaptive response (AR), has been described in a wide range of biological models. We previously demonstrated the existence of AR in mice during late organogenesis. In this study, we investigated molecular mechanisms underlying AR in this model.Materials and methods: Using DNA microarrays, we performed a global analysis of transcriptome regulations in adapted and non-adapted cells collected from whole mouse fetuses, after in utero exposure to priming irradiation.Results: We identified AR-specific gene modulations. Our results suggested the involvement of signal transduction and Tumor protein (p53)-related pathways in the induction of AR.Conclusions: Our results are in agreement with previous investigations showing that AR could be dependant on p53 activity. The observed gene modulations may also have possible consequences for subs...