The Effect of Multiple Exposures and Partial-Body X-Irradiation on Urinary Taurine Excretion by the Rat

Evidence has been presented which indicates that there is in the rat a substance or mechanism which under the influence of x-irradiation gives rise to a limited excretion of taurine. After a whole-body irradiation dose that gives a maximal response the radiosensitive material or mechanism is re-established, but only after an interval of at least 7 days. The substance or mechanism is apparently localized in the abdominal area, since the response is obtained only if the abdomen is irradiated. The response is not due to the irradiation of any one organ in the abdomen, however, since shielding of the individual organs in this area does not prevent the excessive excretion of taurine, and irradiation of individual organs does not cause it. The presence of the pancreas is necessary in order to obtain an excessive excretion of taurine after x-irradiation, whereas the presence of the spleen, adrenals, kidneys, and hypophysis is not. (auth)