Structural and functional changes in neurons of the intermuscular plexus of the stomach in rats exposed to a combination of chemical and radiation factors

In rats subjected to a prolonged action of ionizing radiation (total dose 1 Gy, 30 days) the content of catecholamines in adrenergic fibers and the lactate dehydrogenase activity increased, while the succinate dehydrogenase activity decreased. A prolonged application of cadmium 4 μg/kg into the stomach led to a decrease in the levels of catecholamines, acetylcholinesterase, and energy metabolism enzymes. These levels remained lowered under the combined influence of ionizing radiation and cadmium. It is suggested that a prolonged combined action of chemical and radiation factors, by inducing disturbances in the adrenergic and cholinergic transmitter ratio, facilitates a disorder of the gastric evacuator function. (Authors)