A New Approach to the Stimulation of the Body’s Defense Systems with Low Radiation Doses

Abstract

The article considers the effects arising after exposure to low doses of radiation in vitro and in vivo, as well as the mechanisms of their formation. Analysis of the literature shows that the result of the action of low-dose radiation depends on the cell type, radiation sources, assessment methods, etc. This action differs from the effects of high doses and is associated with the activation of defense systems. Stimulation of the endogenous antioxidant system and repair was detected in normal cells after exposure to low doses. At the level of the organism, the response to the effect of low radiation doses is also accompanied by activation of the immune system. This leads to an increase in the resistance of normal cells to the action of genotoxic factors (the radio-adaptive response), which can be used to protect the normal tissues surrounding the tumor from the effects of high radiation doses during radiation therapy. The resistance of most malignant cells after irradiation with low doses did not change. However, the fractionated effect of low-dose radiation on the tumor could induce an increase in radio-sensitivity in malignant cells. The review presents data that show the change in the expression of a number of genes and regulatory RNA after exposure to low-dose radiation. These epigenetic parameters make it possible to explain individual differences in the magnitude of the radio-adaptive response. The paper discusses the prospects of the use of low-dose radiation for the treatment of certain human pathological conditions.