Abstract
Aim. Study of the state of blood homeostasis in female rats under isolated and combined exposure to hexavalent chromium and gamma radiation. Materials and methods. The experiment included groups of rats exposed to gamma radiation, as well as combined exposure to gamma radiation and chromium. In the acute phase, peripheral blood parameters, markers of oxidative stress (MDA, SOD, CAT) and cytokine status (IL-1-beta, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α) were evaluated. Results and discussion. Gamma radiation significantly reduced antioxidant protection (SOD, CAT) and caused severe inflammation (increased the level of IL-1-beta). These changes were statistically significant, and the high correlation between the groups confirmed the reliability of the results. The mechanisms of induced mutagenesis under combined exposure are associated with increased free radical oxidation and depletion of the antioxidant system. Conclusions. Combined exposure to hexavalent chromium and gamma radiation causes more severe homeostasis disorders compared to isolated use. The data suggest the need to develop chemoprophylaxis methods to reduce cancer risks, especially in cases where carcinogens have a combined effect.