CHANGES IN PHAGOCYTIC ACTIVITY OF PIG BLOOD CELLS UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF LOW ABSORBED DOSE IONIZING RADIATION

Abstract

This study examines the effects of low absorbed doses of ionizing radiation on hematological and immunological parameters of pigs kept in the agricultural landscapes of Ukrainian Polissia. The persistent presence of radionuclides in the environment, particularly 137Cs and 90Sr, underscores the need for sensitive biomarkers of subclinical alterations in production animals. The study found that chronic exposure at approximately 1.5 mGy/year is associated with moderate but statistically significant hematological changes: increases in erythrocyte and leukocyte counts, interpreted as compensatory stimulation of hematopoiesis. At the same time, a marked reduction in neutrophil phagocytic activity (on average 35–40% relative to controls) was observed, indicating weakening of the cellular arm of innate immunity and possible depletion of phagocytic reserves under prolonged low-dose exposure. The concurrence of adaptive and dysfunction processes highlights the nonlinear nature of responses to low-dose ionizing radiation, including redox imbalance, modulation of antioxidant mechanisms, and subcellular alterations preceding clinical manifestations. Plasma biochemical indices remained largely within physiological limits, supporting an adaptive-compensatory interpretation of the observed shifts without overt systemic pathology. Practically, neutrophil phagocytic activity is proposed as an informative early biomarker for incorporating into ecological and veterinary-sanitary monitoring programs to assess risks and ensure safety in animal husbandry and food production. Further research and mitigation measures are warranted.