Effects of radiation damage on intestinal morphology

• Published in: International Review of Cytology Vol. 208; pp. 1 - 119
• Main Author: Carr, Katharine E
• Format: Book Chapter Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Science & Technology 2001
• Subjects: Animals; Apoptosis - physiology; Apoptosis - radiation effects; Cellular biology; Connective tissue; Developmental biology; Enteric Nervous System - pathology; Enteric Nervous System - physiopathology; Enteric Nervous System - radiation effects; Epithelium; Humans; Immune System - pathology; Immune System - physiopathology; Immune System - radiation effects; Intestinal Diseases - pathology; Intestinal Diseases - physiopathology; Intestinal Diseases - radiotherapy; Intestinal Mucosa - pathology; Intestinal Mucosa - physiopathology; Intestinal Mucosa - radiation effects; Intestine; Molecular biology; Muscle; Neuroendocrine; Neurosecretion - physiology; Neurosecretion - radiation effects; Radiation; Connective tissue; Muscle; Epithelium; Intestine; Neuroendocrine; Radiation
• ISBN: 9780123646125; 012364612X
• ISSN: 0074-7696; 2163-5854
• DOI: 10.1016/S0074-7696(01)08002-0

The current flow of papers on intestinal structure, radiation science, and intestinal radiation response is reflected in the contents of this review. Multiparameter findings and changes in compartments, cells, or subcellular structure all contribute to the overall profile of the response. The well-recognized changes in proliferation, vessels, and fibrogenesis are accompanied by alterations in other compartments, such as neuroendocrine or immune components of the intestinal wall. The responses at the molecular level, such as in levels of hormones, cytokines, or neurotransmitters, are of fundamental importance. The intestine responds to localized radiation, or to changes in other organs that influence its structure or function: some structural parameters respond differently to different radiation schedules. Apart from radiation conditions, factors affecting the outcome include the pathophysiology of the irradiated subject and accompanying treatment or intervention. More progress in understanding the overall responses is expected in the next few years.