Changes in Membrane Receptors of B and T Human Lymphocytes Exposed to 60 Co Gamma Rays

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Abstract
The effect of 50-2500 rad of 60Co gamma rays on the membrane receptors of B [bone marrow-derived] and T [thymus-derived] lymphocytes was studied. Surface membrane immunoglobulins (SmIg) and Fc receptors were used as markers for B cells, while the formation of rosettes with sheep red blood cells (E) was used as a marker for T cells. The effect of radiation is expressed as the percentage of viable cells that bear membrane receptors. The radiation effects were studied after 2, 24 and 36 h of culture. For B lymphocytes no reduction in SmIg and Fc receptors was seen 2 h after radiation, whereas a dose-related reduction was observed after 24 and 36 h. A dose-related inhibition of the capping of SmIg was observed. For T lymphocytes a reduction of E rosette formation was seen starting 2 h after irradiation. EM of separated B and T cells showed a higher sensitivity of T cells as well as a different structural arrangement of the chromatin as a consequence of radiation damage. Differentiated behavior of B and T lymphocyte membrane receptors after exposure to radiation was suggested.