TESTING THE PROTECTIVE PROPERTIES OF ARGON DURING SUBACUTE EXPOSURE TO HYPOXIC HYPOXIA

Previously it has been shown that argon has a stimulating effect on biological processes including, specifically, strong protective properties during exposure to acute (1-4 hrs.) hypoxic hypoxia. Experiments with animals under hypoxia gradually growing over 3 to 7 days may give insight into mechanisms of the argon protective action. Purpose of the work was to explore character and severity of developing disorders, to attempt their prognosis and to test potentiality of argon as a protector from the effects of subacute hypoxic exposure. In two series of experiments Wistar male rats were housed in pressure chambers with different rates of O2 reduction without argon and with argon in concentration of 32-38%. Oxygen reduction from 20.9 to 9.0% in 3 days led to the death of 50% animals. Oxygen reduction to 12.0% in 7 days and one day in low-oxygen atmosphere was harmless for animals. Argon in air makes the response to hypoxia almost twice as sharp on virtually every level (red blood system, physiological, morphological and biochemical shifts) validating the concept that argon acts as a stimulator. In context of the most critical processes of adaptation to hypoxia--activation of blood formation and lipid metabolism--this sharpening of the response results in depletion of body resources and instigates irreversible shifts.