Effects of gamma-ray irradiation on superoxide dismutase activity and lipid peroxide level in mouse salivary glands.

The effect of local gamma-ray irradiation on the enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase in salivary glands was examined. Mice received a single dose of 60Co gamma-ray irradiation in the range of 3 to 24 Gy to their neck regions. The enzymatic activity in salivary glands was decreased significantly at the 7th day and almost recovered at the 14th day after irradiation with over 6 Gy. The elevation of the lipid peroxide levels in the submandibular gland followed by the leakage of superoxide dismutase from the glands into the blood plasma was observed after irradiation, indicating radiation-induced membrane damage of salivary glands.