Radiation effects on submandibular gland of the rat. Stereological and ultrastructural study.
The chronic effect of 2000 rd (20 Gy) of X-rays locally applied to the submandibular gland of Wistar young-adult male rats, was studied by stereology, and light and electron microscopic observations. They demonstrated that degenerative changes were observed during the first months after irradiation. Atrophic processes developed from 6 months onwards. In the acinar compartment, atrophy was progressive from the first months post-irradiation up to 9 months post-irradiation. Ductal cell membranes and mitochondrial damage were clearly detected at ultrastructural level. Nuclear fragmentation and secretory granules alterations were also frequently seen in the acinar compartment.
D000818:Animals; D001284:Atrophy; D002467:Cell Nucleus / Q000528:radiation effects; D008297:Male; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D008928:Mitochondria / Q000528:radiation effects; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D051381:Rats; D013363:Submandibular Gland / Q000528:radiation effects* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D013997:Time Factors