Investigation of the effect of ionizing radiation on the course of streptozotocin-induced diabetes through the analysis of immunological and biochemical status in rats

Abstract

This study investigated the individual and combined effects of streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus and ionizing γ-radiation on the rat organism. The dynamics of metabolic, immunological, and biochemical parameters were evaluated. It was found that each factor independently induced pathological changes, including hyperglycemia, reduced insulin secretion, and impaired antioxidant defense. Under combined exposure, these effects were significantly exacerbated: elevated blood glucose and lipid peroxidation products, along with a decline in insulin levels, were observed. Pronounced immune dysfunctions were recorded, including reductions in leukocyte count, T-lymphocytes, T-helper cells, and the immunoregulatory index, as well as suppressed phagocytic activity and decreased levels of circulating immune complexes. The most profound alterations occurred under combined action, indicating a synergistic damaging effect of streptozotocin and γ-radiation. These findings support the utility of this experimental model for investigating the pathogenesis of metabolically and radiation-induced immunodeficiency and for evaluating the efficacy of immunomodulatory and radioprotective agents.