EFFECT OF CHRONIC GAMMA RADIATION ON AIRBORNE INFECTION OF MICE WITH LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES
Abstract
The effects of continuous exposure to low dose rate gamma radiation on susceptibility to infection were investigated by determining the effects of such exposure on mice challenged with airborne Listeria monocytogenes. Following continuous exposure to low dose rate gamma radiation, the susceptibility of mice to airborne Listeria monocytogenes infection increased. Impaired clearance (mechanical removal or killing) of L. monocytogenes from the lungs of irradiated mice, at a short interval after infection, was demonstrated. The results indicated that both greater bacterial proliferation and delayed disappearance of the organism occurred in the organs of irradiated mice following sublethal aerosol challenge. Exposure to a lethal dose of the bacterial aerosol resulted in comparable proliferation rates in the organs of irradiated and non-irradiated mice. Earlier deaths were observed in the irradiated animals.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 22, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0601091
Entities
People
- J. F. Pribnow
- M. S. Silverman
- R. H. Stewart
Organizations
- Naval Radiological Defense Laboratory