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Down JD, Cornwall-Brady MR, Huang W, Hurwitz M, Floyd SR, Yilmaz OH. Selecting the Most Relevant Mouse Strains for Evaluating Radiation-Induced Multiple Tissue Injury after Leg-Shielded Partial-Body Gamma Irradiation. Radiat Res 2024; 202:510-522. [PMID: 39066627 DOI: 10.1667/rade-24-00058.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Animal studies are needed that best simulate a large-scale, inhomogeneous body exposure after a radiological or nuclear incident and that provides a platform for future development of medical countermeasures. A partial-body irradiation (PBI) model using 137Cs gamma rays with hind limb (tibia) shielding was developed and assessed for the sequalae of radiation injuries to gastrointestinal tract, bone marrow (BM) and lung and among different genetic mouse strains (C57BL/6J, C57L/J, CBA/J and FVB/NJ). In this case, a marginal level of BM shielding (∼2%) provided adequate protection against lethality from infection and hemorrhage and enabled escalation of radiation doses with evaluation of both acute and delayed radiation syndromes. A steep radiation dose-dependent body weight loss was observed over the first 5 days attributed to enteritis with C57BL/6J mice appearing to be the most sensitive strain. Peripheral blood cell analysis revealed significant depression and recovery of leukocytes and platelets over the first month after PBI and were comparable among the four different mouse strains. Latent pulmonary injury was observed on micro-CT imaging at 4 months in C57L/J mice and confirmed histologically as severe pneumonitis that was lethal at 12 Gy. The lethality and radiological densitometry (HUs) dose responses were comparable to previous studies on C57L/J mice after total-body irradiation (TBI) and BM transplant rescue as well as after localized whole-thorax irradiation (WTI). Indeed, the lethal radiation doses and latency appeared similar for pneumonitis appearing in rhesus macaques after WTI or PBI as well as predicted for patients given systemic radiotherapy. In contrast, PBI treatment of C57BL/6 mice at a higher dose of 14 Gy had far longer survival times and developed extreme and debilitating pIeural effusions; an anomaly as similarly reported in previous thorax irradiation studies on this mouse strain. In summary, a radiation exposure model that delivers PBI to unanesthetized mice in a device that provides consistent shielding of the hind limb BM was developed for 137Cs gamma rays with physical characteristics and relevance to relatively high photon energies expected from the detonation of a nuclear device or accidental release of ionizing radiation. Standard strains such as C57BL/6J mice may be used reliably for early GI or hematological radiation syndromes while the C57L/J mouse strain stands out as the most appropriate for evaluating the delayed pulmonary effects of acute radiation exposure and recapitulating this disease in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian D Down
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Milton R Cornwall-Brady
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Wei Huang
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Martina Hurwitz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Scott R Floyd
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Omer H Yilmaz
- Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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Polizzi M, Valerie K, Kim S. Commissioning and Assessment of Radiation Field and Dose Inhomogeneity for a Dual X-ray Tube Cabinet Irradiator: To Ensure Accurate Dosimetry in Radiation Biology Experiments. Adv Radiat Oncol 2024; 9:101486. [PMID: 38699670 PMCID: PMC11063221 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2024.101486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Standardization of x-ray cabinet irradiator dose, geometry, and calibration reporting is an ongoing process. Multi-tube designs have been introduced into the preclinical market and give a theoretical benefit but have not been widely assessed for use in preclinical irradiation conditions. The aim of this study was to report our experience commissioning a dual x-ray source cabinet irradiator (CIXD, Xstrahl Limited, United Kingdom) and assess the dose distribution for various experimental conditions. Methods and Materials Half-value layer (HVL) measurement, profile measurements, and output calibration were performed using a calibrated ion chamber. Constancy measurements were performed twice daily over 2 weeks to assess output fluctuations. Film measurements were completed using solid water to assess percent depth dose and homogeneity within the field and within variable thicknesses of solid water and phosphate-buffered saline solution. Film measurements were repeated for various arrangements of petri dishes filled with phosphate-buffered saline or water and in a 3D-printed mouse phantom. Results The x-ray tubes had a measured in-air output of 1.27 Gy/min. The HVL was 1.7 mm Cu. The upper and lower tubes both exhibited the heel effect, but when operated simultaneously, the effect was reduced. Ion chamber measurements revealed a 15% dose inhomogeneity within the tray area (18 × 18 cm2). Film measurements in the petri dishes indicated minor nonuniformities in the arrangements of the experimental apparatus. Measurements from the mouse phantom with film agreed with ion chamber measurements for various phantom placements and orientations. Conclusions X-ray cell culture and animal irradiation with dual tube cabinet irradiation is efficient and robust when using established dosimetric tools to confirm output and homogeneity. The conditions assumed for calibrations are often not maintained during experiments. We have confirmed that inhomogeneities are present for single-tube use; however, they are reduced with simultaneous tube use. Additional dosimetric monitoring should be performed for each unique irradiation setup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Polizzi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Kristoffer Valerie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Siyong Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
- Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
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Kumar VP, Wuddie K, Tsioplaya A, Weaver A, Holmes-Hampton GP, Ghosh SP. Development of a Multi-Organ Radiation Injury Model with Precise Dosimetry with Focus on GI-ARS. Radiat Res 2024; 201:19-34. [PMID: 38014611 DOI: 10.1667/rade-23-00068.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to establish a model of partial-body irradiation (PBI) sparing 2.5% of the bone marrow (BM2.5-PBI) that accurately recapitulates radiological/nuclear exposure scenarios. Here we have reported a model which produces gastrointestinal (GI) damage utilizing a clinical linear accelerator (LINAC) with precise dosimetry, which can be used to develop medical countermeasures (MCM) for GI acute radiation syndrome (ARS) under the FDA animal rule. The PBI model (1 hind leg spared) was developed in male and female C57BL/6 mice that received radiation doses ranging from 12-17 Gy with no supportive care. GI pathophysiology was assessed by crypt cell loss and correlated with peak lethality between days 4 and 10 after PBI. The radiation dose resulting in 50% mortality in 30 days (LD50/30) was determined by probit analysis. Differential blood cell counts in peripheral blood, colony forming units (CFU) in bone marrow, and sternal megakaryocytes were analyzed between days 1-30, to assess the extent of hematopoietic ARS (H-ARS) injury. Radiation-induced GI damage was also assessed by measuring: 1. bacterial load (16S rRNA) by RT-PCR on days 4 and 7 after PBI in liver, spleen and jejunum, 2. liposaccharide binding protein (LBP) levels in liver, and 3. fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-dextran, E-selectin, sP-selectin, VEGF, FGF-2, MMP-9, citrulline, and serum amyloid A (SAA) levels in serum. The LD50/30 of male mice was 14.3 Gy (95% confidence interval 14.1-14.7 Gy) and of female mice was 14.5 Gy (95% confidence interval 14.3-14.7 Gy). Secondary endpoints included loss of viable crypts, higher bacterial loads in spleen and liver, higher LBP in liver, increased FITC-dextran and SAA levels, and decreased levels of citrulline and endothelial biomarkers in serum. The BM2.5-PBI model, developed for the first time with precise dosimetry, showed acute radiation-induced GI damage that is correlated with lethality, as well as a response to various markers of inflammation and vascular damage. Sex-specific differences were observed with respect to radiation dose response. Currently, no MCM is available as a mitigator for GI-ARS. This BM2.5-PBI mouse model can be regarded as the first high-throughput PBI model with precise dosimetry for developing MCMs for GI-ARS under the FDA animal rule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidya P Kumar
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | - Kefale Wuddie
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | - Alena Tsioplaya
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | - Alia Weaver
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | - Gregory P Holmes-Hampton
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
| | - Sanchita P Ghosh
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20889
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Sharma GP, Frei A, Fish B, Gasperetti T, Veley D, Szalewski N, Nissen A, Himburg HA. Biological sex differences in renin angiotensin system enzymes ACE and ACE2 regulate normal tissue response to radiation injury. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1191237. [PMID: 37275232 PMCID: PMC10235526 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1191237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: In experimental animal models, biological sex-differences in the manifestation and severity of normal tissue radiation injury have been well-documented. Previously we demonstrated male and female rats have differential and highly reproducible responses to high-dose partial body irradiation (PBI) with male rats having greater susceptibility to both gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS) and radiation pneumonitis than female rats. Methods: In the current study, we have investigated whether differential expression of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) enzymes angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and ACE2 contribute to the observed sex-related differences in radiation response. Results: During the period of symptomatic pneumonitis, the relative ratio of ACE to ACE2 (ACE/ACE2) protein in the whole lung was significantly increased by radiation in male rats alone. Systemic treatment with small molecule ACE2 agonist diminazene aceturate (DIZE) increased lung ACE2 activity and reduced morbidity during radiation pneumonitis in both sexes. Notably DIZE treatment also abrogated morbidity in male rats during GI-ARS. We then evaluated the contribution of the irradiated bone marrow (BM) compartment on lung immune cell infiltration and ACE imbalance during pneumonitis. Transplantation of bone marrow from irradiated donors increased both ACE-expressing myeloid cell infiltration and immune ACE activity in the lung during pneumonitis compared to non-irradiated donors. Discussion: Together, these data demonstrate radiation induces a sex-dependent imbalance in the renin-angiotensin system enzymes ACE and ACE2. Additionally, these data suggest a role for ACE-expressing myeloid cells in the pathogenesis of radiation pneumonitis. Finally, the observed sex-differences underscore the need for consideration of sex as a biological variable in the development of medical countermeasures for radiation exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guru Prasad Sharma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Anne Frei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Brian Fish
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Tracy Gasperetti
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Dana Veley
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Nathan Szalewski
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Austen Nissen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | - Heather A. Himburg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
- Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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Kuo HC, Daniel AR, Driver LM, Lee CL, Kirsch DG. Histological assessment of intestinal injury by ionizing radiation. Methods Cell Biol 2023; 180:147-175. [PMID: 37890927 PMCID: PMC10755726 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Given the potential risk of radiological terrorism and disasters, it is essential to develop plans to prepare for such events. In these hazardous scenarios, radiation-induced gastrointestinal (GI) syndrome is one of the many manifestations that may happen after the organism is exposed to a lethal dose of ionizing radiation. Therefore, it is critical to better understand how the intestinal tissues initiate and orchestrate regeneration following severe radiation injury. In this chapter, we aimed to provide several key considerations for researchers who utilize histological assessment to study radiation-induced intestinal injury. Rigor and reproducibility are critical in experimental design and can be achieved by maintaining proper radiation administration, maintaining consistency in sample collection, and selecting and using appropriate controls. We also provided technical details of histological preparation of the intestines with tips on dissecting, cleaning, fixing, and preserving. Step-by-step descriptions of both bundling and Swiss rolling are provided with discussion on how to choose between the two approaches. In the following section, we detailed several histological assessment methods and then provided suggestions on how to use histological assessment to study cellular dynamics in the small intestines. Finally, we touched on some non-histological assessments. We hope that the information provided in this chapter will contribute to the research society of radiation-induced intestinal injury with an ultimate goal of promoting the development of radiation countermeasures against the GI acute radiation syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsuan-Cheng Kuo
- Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Andrea R Daniel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Lucy M Driver
- Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Chang-Lung Lee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States; Department of Pathology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - David G Kirsch
- Department of Pharmacology & Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States; Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States.
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Melam A, Pedersen LN, Klaas A, Xu Z, Bergom C. Methods to assess radiation-induced cardiotoxicity in rodent models. Methods Cell Biol 2023; 180:127-146. [PMID: 37890926 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2023.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Cancer survivors who have received thoracic radiation as part of their primary treatment are at risk for developing radiation-induced cardiotoxicity (RICT) due to incidental radiation delivered to the heart. In recent decades, advancements in radiation delivery have dramatically improved the therapeutic ratio of radiation therapy (RT)-efficiently targeting malignancies while sparing the heart; yet, in many patients, incidental radiation to the heart cannot be fully avoided. Cardiac radiation exposure can cause long-term morbidity and contribute to poorer survival in cancer patients. Severe cardiac effects can occur within 2years of treatment. Currently, there is no way to predict who is at higher or lower risk of developing cardiotoxicity from radiation, and the critical factors that alter RICT have not yet been clearly identified. Thus, pre-clinical investigations are an important step towards better prevention, detection, and management of RICT in cancer survivors. The overarching aim of this chapter is to provide researchers with foundational and technical knowledge in the use of mice and rats for RICT investigations. After a brief overview of RICT pathophysiology and clinical manifestations, we discuss important considerations of RICT study design, including animal selection and radiation planning. We then provide example protocols for murine tissue harvesting and processing that can support use in downstream applications of the reader's choosing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anupama Melam
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Lauren N Pedersen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Amanda Klaas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Zhiqiang Xu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Carmen Bergom
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, United States.
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7
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Beach T, Bakke J, Riccio E, Javitz HS, Nishita D, Kapur S, Bunin DI, Chang PY. The progression of radiation injury in a Wistar rat model of partial body irradiation with ∼5% bone marrow shielding. Int J Radiat Biol 2023:1-16. [PMID: 36930794 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2023.2188937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the dose response relationship and natural history of radiation injury in the Wistar rat and it's suitability for use in medical countermeasures (MCM) testing. MATERIALS & METHODS In two separate studies, male and female rats were exposed to partial body irradiation (PBI) with 5% bone marrow sparing. Animals were X-ray irradiated from 7 to 12 Gy at 7-10 weeks of age. Acute radiation syndrome (ARS) survival at 30 days and delayed effects of acute radiation exposure (DEARE) survival at 182 days were assessed. Radiation effects were determined by clinical observations, body weights, hematology, clinical chemistry, magnetic resonance imaging of lung, whole-body plethysmography, and histopathology. RESULTS Rats developed canonical ARS responses of hematopoietic atrophy and gastrointestinal injury resulting in mortality at doses ≥8Gy in males and ≥8.5 Gy in females. DEARE mortality occurred at doses ≥8Gy for both sexes. Findings indicate lung, kidney, and/or liver injury, and persistent hematological dysregulation, revealing multi-organ injury as a DEARE. CONCLUSION The Wistar rat PBI model is suitable for testing MCMs against hematopoietic and gastrointestinal ARS. DEARE multi-organ injury occurred in both sexes irradiated with 8-9Gy, also suggesting suitability for polypharmacy studies addressing the combination of ARS and DEARE injury.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ed Riccio
- SRI International, Menlo Park, CA, USA
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Plett PA, Pelus LM, Orschell CM. Establishing a Murine Model of the Hematopoietic Acute Radiation Syndrome. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2567:251-262. [PMID: 36255706 PMCID: PMC11192174 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2679-5_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The hematopoietic system is one of the most sensitive tissues to ionizing radiation, and radiation doses from 2 to 10 gray can result in death from bleeding and infection if left untreated. Reviewing the range of radiation doses reported in the literature that result in similar lethality highlights the need for a more consistent model that would allow a better comparison of the hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome (H-ARS) studies carried out in different laboratories. Developing a murine model of H-ARS to provide a platform suited for efficacy testing of medical countermeasures (MCM) against radiation should include a review of the Food and Drug Administration requirements outlined in the Animal Rule. The various aspects of a murine H-ARS model found to affect consistent performance will be described in this chapter including strain, sex, radiation type and dose, mouse restraint, and husbandry.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Artur Plett
- Department of Medicine/Hematology Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Louis M Pelus
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology and Department of Medicine/Hematology Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Christie M Orschell
- Department of Medicine/Hematology Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
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9
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Satyamitra MM, Taliaferro LP, Rios CI. Commentary on Animal Care in Radiation Medical Countermeasures Studies. Radiat Res 2022; 198:508-513. [PMID: 36351323 PMCID: PMC9812030 DOI: 10.1667/rade-22-00009.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Merriline M. Satyamitra
- Corresponding author: Merriline Satyamitra, PhD, DAIT, NIAID, NIH, 5601 Fishers Lane, Room 7A67, Bethesda, MD 20892;
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Rios CI, Hollingsworth BA, DiCarlo AL, Esker JE, Satyamitra MM, Silverman TA, Winters TA, Taliaferro LP. Animal Care in Radiation Medical Countermeasures Studies. Radiat Res 2022; 198:514-535. [PMID: 36001810 PMCID: PMC9743977 DOI: 10.1667/rade-21-00211.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Animal models are necessary to demonstrate the efficacy of medical countermeasures (MCM) to mitigate/treat acute radiation syndrome and the delayed effects of acute radiation exposure and develop biodosimetry signatures for use in triage and to guide medical management. The use of animal models in radiation research allows for the simulation of the biological effects of exposure in humans. Robust and well-controlled animal studies provide a platform to address basic mechanistic and safety questions that cannot be conducted in humans. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has tasked the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) with identifying and funding early- through advanced-stage MCM development for radiation-induced injuries; and advancement of biodosimetry platforms and exploration of biomarkers for triage, definitive dose, and predictive purposes. Some of these NIAID-funded projects may transition to the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), a component of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which is tasked with the advanced development of MCMs to include pharmacokinetic, exposure, and safety assessments in humans. Guided by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Animal Rule, both NIAID and BARDA work closely with researchers to advance product and device development, setting them on a course for eventual licensure/approval/clearance of their approaches by the FDA. In August 2020, NIAID partnered with BARDA to conduct a workshop to discuss currently accepted animal care protocols and examine aspects of animal models that can influence outcomes of studies to explore MCM efficacy for potential harmonization. This report provides an overview of the two-day workshop, which includes a series of special topic presentations followed by panel discussions with subject-matter experts from academia, industry partners, and select governmental agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen I. Rios
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | | | - Andrea L. DiCarlo
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - John E. Esker
- Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR), US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Washington, DC
| | - Merriline M. Satyamitra
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - Toby A. Silverman
- Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR), US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Washington, DC
| | - Thomas A. Winters
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland
| | - Lanyn P. Taliaferro
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rockville, Maryland,Corresponding author: Lanyn P. Taliaferro, PhD, DAIT, NIAID, NIH, 5601 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852;
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Transcriptomics of Wet Skin Biopsies Predict Early Radiation-Induced Hematological Damage in a Mouse Model. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13030538. [PMID: 35328091 PMCID: PMC8952434 DOI: 10.3390/genes13030538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of an easy and fast radiation-exposure testing method with a dosimetric ability complicates triage and treatment in response to a nuclear detonation, radioactive material release, or clandestine exposure. The potential of transcriptomics in radiation diagnosis and prognosis were assessed here using wet skin (blood/skin) biopsies obtained at hour 2 and days 4, 7, 21, and 28 from a mouse radiation model. Analysis of significantly differentially transcribed genes (SDTG; p ≤ 0.05 and FC ≥ 2) during the first post-exposure week identified the glycoprotein 6 (GP-VI) signaling, the dendritic cell maturation, and the intrinsic prothrombin activation pathways as the top modulated pathways with stable inactivation after lethal exposures (20 Gy) and intermittent activation after sublethal (1, 3, 6 Gy) exposure time points (TPs). Interestingly, these pathways were inactivated in the late TPs after sublethal exposure in concordance with a delayed deleterious effect. Modulated transcription of a variety of collagen types, laminin, and peptidase genes underlay the modulated functions of these hematologically important pathways. Several other SDTGs related to platelet and leukocyte development and functions were identified. These results outlined genetic determinants that were crucial to clinically documented radiation-induced hematological and skin damage with potential countermeasure applications.
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Malo ME, Frank C, Khokhoev E, Gorbunov A, Dontsov A, Garg R, Dadachova E. Mitigating effects of sublethal and lethal whole-body gamma irradiation in a mouse model with soluble melanin. JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION 2022; 42:011508. [PMID: 35037901 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6498/ac3dcf] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The field of radiation countermeasures is growing, however, currently there are no effective and non-toxic compounds which could be administered orally to the individuals post exposure to high doses of ionising radiation. The pigment melanin is ubiquitous through all kingdoms of life and provides selective advantage under radiation stress through its role as a chemical and physical shield, and its capacity to respond and react to exposures. Soluble allomelanin was administered to mice following whole-body exposure to lethal or sublethal doses of gamma radiation to determine its capacity to mitigate the effects of acute radiation syndrome, and its utility as a radiation countermeasure. Allomelanin has shown a trend to improve survival post an 8 Gy sublethal radiation exposure when administered up to 48 h post-irradiation. Furthermore, it improved median and overall survival to a 10 Gy lethal radiation exposure, specifically when administered at 24 h post-irradiation. Histological analysis on the jejunum region of the small intestine of this treatment group indicated that alterations of the mucosal and submucosal architecture, and disruption of the lymphatic system associated with lethal radiation exposure were mitigated when allomelanin was administered at 24 h post-irradiation. Based on this work soluble allomelanin derived from a fungal source could serve as an easily sourced, cost-effective, and viable countermeasure to accidental radiation exposure and merits further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie E Malo
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Connor Frank
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | | | | | - Alexander Dontsov
- Emanuel Institute of Biochemical Physics, Russian Academy of Science, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ravendra Garg
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Ekaterina Dadachova
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
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Melam A, Pedersen LN, Klaas A, Xu Z, Bergom C. Methods to assess radiation-induced cardiotoxicity in rodent models. Methods Cell Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.mcb.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Satyamitra M, Reyes Turcu FE, Pantoja-Galicia N, Wathen L. Challenges and Strategies in the Development of Radiation Biodosimetry Tests for Patient Management. Radiat Res 2021; 196:455-467. [PMID: 34143223 PMCID: PMC9923779 DOI: 10.1667/rade-21-00072.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The public health and medical response to a radiological or nuclear incident requires the capability to sort, assess, treat, triage and ultimately discharge, as well as to refer or transport people to their next step in medical care. The Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasures Enterprise (PHEMCE), directed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), facilitates a comprehensive, multi-agency effort to develop and deploy radiation biodosimetry tests. Within HHS, discovery and development of biodosimetry tests includes the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Preparedness and Response (ASPR), Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as primary partners in this endeavor. The study of radiation biodosimetry has advanced significantly, with expansion into the fields of cytogenetics, genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics and transcriptomics. In addition, expansion of traditional cytogenetic assessment methods using automated platforms, and development of laboratory surge capacity networks have helped to advance biodefense preparedness. This article describes various programs and coordinating efforts between NIAID, BARDA and FDA in the development of radiation biodosimetry approaches to respond to radiological and nuclear threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merriline Satyamitra
- Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program (RNCP), Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation (DAIT), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Rockville, Maryland 20892-9828
| | - Francisca E. Reyes Turcu
- United States Food and Drug Administration (U.S. FDA), Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH), Silver Spring, Maryland 20993-0002
| | - Norberto Pantoja-Galicia
- United States Food and Drug Administration (U.S. FDA), Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH), Silver Spring, Maryland 20993-0002
| | - Lynne Wathen
- Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Washington, DC 20201
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Hritzo B, Legesse B, Ward JM, Kaur A, Holmes-Hampton GP, Moroni M. Investigating the Multi-Faceted Nature of Radiation-Induced Coagulopathies in a Göttingen Minipig Model of Hematopoietic Acute Radiation Syndrome. Radiat Res 2021; 196:156-174. [PMID: 34019667 DOI: 10.1667/rade-20-00073.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Coagulopathies are well documented after acute radiation exposure at hematopoietic doses, and radiation-induced bleeding is notably one of the two main causes of mortality in the hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome. Despite this, understanding of the mechanisms by which radiation alters hemostasis and induces bleeding is still lacking. Here, male Göttingen minipigs received hematopoietic doses of 60Co gamma irradiation (total body) and coagulopathies were characterized by assessing bleeding, blood cytopenia, fibrin deposition, changes in hemostatic properties, coagulant/anticoagulant enzyme levels, and markers of inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and barrier integrity to understand if a relationship exists between bleeding, hemostatic defects, bone marrow aplasia, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction and loss of barrier integrity. Acute radiation exposure induced coagulopathies in the Göttingen minipig model of hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome; instances of bleeding were not dependent upon thrombocytopenia. Neutropenia, alterations in hemostatic parameters and damage to the glycocalyx occurred in all animals irrespective of occurrence of bleeding. Radiation-induced bleeding was concurrent with simultaneous thrombocytopenia, anemia, neutropenia, inflammation, increased heart rate, decreased nitric oxide bioavailability and endothelial dysfunction; bleeding was not observed with the sole occurrence of a single aforementioned parameter in the absence of the others. Alteration of barrier function or clotting proteins was not observed in all cases of bleeding. Additionally, fibrin deposition was observed in the heart and lungs of decedent animals but no evidence of DIC was noted, suggesting a unique pathophysiology of radiation-induced coagulopathies. These findings suggest radiation-induced coagulopathies are the result of simultaneous damage to several key organs and biological functions, including the immune system, the inflammatory response, the bone marrow and the cardiovasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Hritzo
- Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Betre Legesse
- Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | | | - Amandeep Kaur
- Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Gregory P Holmes-Hampton
- Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Maria Moroni
- Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Bethesda, Maryland
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