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Heavy particle irradiation, neurochemistry and behavior: thresholds, dose-response curves and recovery of functionExposure to heavy particles can affect the functioning of the central nervous system (CNS), particularly the dopaminergic system. In turn, the radiation-induced disruption of dopaminergic function affects a variety of behaviors that are dependent upon the integrity of this system, including motor behavior (upper body strength), amphetamine (dopamine)-mediated taste aversion learning, and operant conditioning (fixed-ratio bar pressing). Although the relationships between heavy particle irradiation and the effects of exposure depend, to some extent, upon the specific behavioral or neurochemical endpoint under consideration, a review of the available research leads to the hypothesis that the endpoints mediated by the CNS have certain characteristics in common. These include: (1) a threshold, below which there is no apparent effect; (2) the lack of a dose-response relationship, or an extremely steep dose-response curve, depending on the particular endpoint; and (3) the absence of recovery of function, such that the heavy particle-induced behavioral and neural changes are present when tested up to one year following exposure. The current report reviews the data relevant to the degree to which these characteristics are common to neurochemical and behavioral endpoints that are mediated by the effects of exposure to heavy particles on CNS activity. c2004 COSPAR. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Document ID
20050194011
Acquisition Source
Goddard Space Flight Center
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Rabin, B. M.
(University of Maryland Baltimore County Baltimore, MD 21250, United States)
Joseph, J. A.
Shukitt-Hale, B.
Date Acquired
August 23, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2004
Publication Information
Publication: Advances in space research : the official journal of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR)
Volume: 33
Issue: 8
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG5-6093
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-9434
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG9-1190
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
Review
NASA Discipline Radiation Health
Non-NASA Center
NASA Program Biomedical Research and Countermeasures
Review, Tutorial

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