[Effect of ionizing radiation on the functional state of snail neurons. Phospholipid composition and levels of free fatty acids].

A study was made of the effect of ionizing radiation on the phospholipid composition and the level of free fatty acids in nervous ganglia of edible snails (Helix pomatia). Ionizing radiation was shown to decrease the total content of phospholipids and to change certain fractions and accumulation of lysoforms. The increase in the free fatty acid content indicated an activation of endogenous phospholipase hydrolysis. Model experiments on treatment of nervous ganglia with phospholipase A2 demonstrated a similarity of radiation-induced changes in the phospholipid content.