Restorative effect of vitamin E on some immunological parameters of sub-lethal gamma-irradiated BALB/c mice

ABSTRACT

Elevated amount of the free radicals due to ionizing radiation causes deteriorating damage on immune system. Therefore, we made attempts to investigate the protective effect of vitamin E [vit-E], a biological antioxidant in BALB/c mice, so as to find an affordable prophylactic supplementation for individuals who are at risk. Several groups of mice were selected and exposed to sub-lethal gamma-irradiation with or without vit-E supplementation. At the end of exposure, mice were immunized by either live attenuated Brucella melitensis vaccine or sheep red blood cell [SRBC]. Consequently, the following parameters were assayed specific antibody response, delayed type hypersensitivity and lymphocyte proliferation. We showed that vit-E supplementation restored the immune response in gamma-irradiated mice. These findings might have implications for individuals who are at risk of exposure to ionizing radiation