The Mechanism of Uncoupling of Oxidative Phosphorylation in Rat Spleen and Liver Mitochondria after Whole-Body Irradiation

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Abstract
Rats were given total body doses of 800 r gamma rays which caused a sharp decrease in oxidative phosphorylation in both liver and spleen by 24 hours after irradiation. Spleens that had been excised and shielded (circulation intact) showed the same decrease in phosphorylation. Experiments with gland-operated animals and animals treated with thyroid and adrenal cortex inhibitors indicate that the radiation action is indirect and mediated through a hormonal response. The data indicate that the radiation acts on the pituitary which responds by an over-production of thyrotropic hormone and ACTH. Stimulation of the thyroid causes an inactivation of spleen phosphorylation and stimulation of the adrenal cortex causes inactivation of the liver phosphorylation. Where the spleen is shielded, recovery of the phosphorylating mechanism is indicated. These data are discussed in the light of present theory concerning the damage to the hematopoetic system by radiation.