Modification of the Radiation-Induced Increases in Phosphatase Activity of Hematopoietic Tissues by Chemical Agents

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Abstract
The administration of p-aminopropiophenone (PAPP), cysteine and mercapto-ethylamine prior to sublethal and lethal X-irradiation caused reductions in the extent of increased adenosine triphosphatase and 5-nucleotidase activity of the spleen and thymus glands of rats. Mortality studies demonstrated that the protective capacity of each compound coincided with its ability to diminish enhanced phosphatase activity. PAPP was the most effective of the agents tested. PAPP in combination with mercaptoethylamine afforded greater protection than either agent given singly. The data demonstrate the qualitative simila ity of these agents and suggest common or closely related met lanisms of action. The results indicate the potential usefulness of phosphatase assays for assessing the protective efficacy of chemical agents against radiation injury to the hematopoietic tissues.