ADAPTATION OF PANCREATIC ENZYMES AFTER Γ-IRRADIATION

Abstract

The problem of radiation injuries has become particularly relevant worldwide due to the widespread use of nuclear energy and radioactive substances in industry, agriculture, medicine, and research. This study aimed to investigate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes under γ-irradiation in adult male rats. Experiments were conducted on 60 rats exposed to Co⁶⁰ γ-radiation at doses of 1, 2, 4, and 6 Gy. Pancreatic enzyme activities (amylase, lipase, and total proteases) were measured at different time points (1, 3, 10, 20, 30, 60 days). The results showed dose-dependent decreases in enzyme activity, with partial recovery at lower doses (1–2 Gy) and persistent suppression at higher doses (4–6 Gy). The reduction in enzyme activity may be associated with disrupted neurohumoral regulation, impaired protein synthesis, microcirculatory disorders, and hormonal imbalances. Two periods of functional changes were identified: an initial stress-response phase and a subsequent phase of impaired enzyme synthesis and metabolic regulation.