Protective effect of folic acid supplementation on the proportion of micronucleated erythrocytes in Balb-C mice irradiated with computed tomography.

Abstract

Purpose: The increasing use of computed tomography (CT) has been linked to a higher risk of brain tumors and leukemia in pediatric populations. CT causes direct DNA damage and generates reactive oxygen species, leading to double-stranded DNA breaks. Folic acid, known for its role in DNA stabilization, was supplemented before radiation exposure to reduce these effects. This study assessed the genotoxic impact of CT in mice with and without folic acid supplementation.

Materials and methods: Three groups of Balb-C mice were formed: Group 1 - negative control; Group 2 - exposed to total body X-rays (4 mGy per day for 2 consecutive days); and Group 3 - treated like group 2 but also given folic acid in their drinking water (Lab. Valdecasas, S.A., 2.12 mg/kg) from the start of the experiment. Blood smears were made to analyze micronucleated erythrocytes and micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes under a microscope (100×).

Results: At 72 hours, group 3 showed a reduction in micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes compared to group 2. Both intragroup and intergroup analyses revealed a decreased proportion of micronucleated erythrocytes at 72 hours in group 3, with further reductions seen in intragroup comparisons at 96 hours.

Conclusion: Folic acid reduced radiation-induced DNA damage in group 3 (CT plus folic acid) compared to group 2 (CT only), indicating a possible protective effect. However, since a murine model was used, these findings require cautious interpretation and thorough translational evaluation before validating antioxidant supplementation in pediatric patients undergoing radiation.