Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-metoxytryptamine) is a very well-known antioxidant and free radical scavenger. There is literature showing that melatonin protects the cells from the processes of aging. In case of erythrocytes, the incubation of cells at 37°C in PBS is taken as a model of accelerated aging. In this work we examined the processes of degradation of the erythrocytes subjected to irradiation and subsequently incubated at 37°C. In such an experimental system we studied the influence of melatonin on a post-radiation processes of erythrocyte aging. The determined parameters were the degree of oxidation of hemoglobin, glutathion, the leak of potassium from cells and the hemolysis of erythrocytes.

The erythrocyte suspensions in PBS (hematocrit 1%) were irradiated with the dose of 100 Gy under air. After irradiation the cells were incubated at the temperature of 37°C. The incubation was performed in the presence of various concentrations of melatonin and without antioxidant (control sample). In given time the above parameters were determined. The obtained data showed the decrease in the processes of cellular degradation in the presence of melatonin. These results suggest that melatonin was the factor slowering the post-radiation processes of erythrocyte aging, thus it prolongs life of human red blood cells.

This work was supported by the European Social Fund and the National Budget within the confines of the 2.6 Action of the Integrated Operation Programme and Regional Development in connection with realization the Project: the Group of the Regional and Innovation Development PhD Students Acronim ”GRRI-D”.

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