Experiments on the Radioprotective Action of Dimethyl Sulphoxide

Summary The radioprotective action of dimethyl sulphoxide against a lethal dose of x-rays was investigated in two strains of mice. The protection is somewhat better in CBA/Rij than in C57BL/Rij mice. At protective doses a marked fall in the oxygen tension in the spleen is found. This effect is greater in the CBA/Rij than in the C57BL/Rij mice. The intraperitoneal injection of dimethyl sulphoxide causes an abrupt rise in blood pressure lasting only a few minutes. The mechanism of action of dimethyl sulphoxide in the mouse is discussed.