EFFECTS OF THE ESTROGENIC ACTIVITIES OF GENISTEIN ON IMMUNE RESPONSE IN IRRADIATED MICE / 营养学报

ABSTRACT

Objective To study the radiation-protective effects produced by the estrogenic activities of genistein(Gen) for providing experimental basis to develop the food for radiation protection. Method After blocking estrogen receptor (ER) activities by Tamoxifen and Faslodex,the effects of Gen on peripheral leucocytes and lymphocyte counts,serum haemolysin and delayed type of hypersensitivity of the mice were examined after exposure to 4 Gy ? radiation. Results Gen was shown to inhibit the decrease of peripheral leucocytes and lymphocyte counts and the decreased immune response of the ?-irradiated mice. Faslodex (ER? blocker) + Gen eliminated the protective effect of Gen and still caused the similar effects in hematological response and immune response after irradiation. Tamoxifen (ER? blocker) did not have these effects. Conclusion Gen can enhance the immune function in irradiated mice through activation of estrogen receptor ? pathway.