Effects of low-dose rate radiation on immune and epigenetic regulation of the mouse testes.

This study examined the effects of chronic low-dose-rate ionizing radiation (LDRIR) on gene expression related to epigenetic regulation and immune defense mechanisms in the testes of male mice. Results showed that LDRIR reduced the expression of genes involved in DNA methylation and histone modification while increasing the expression of genes linked to both innate and acquired immunity, including a significant rise in SRY-box transcription factor 9 (SOX9), which is important for testicular development. The findings suggest the presence of SOX9-dependent immunocompetent cells resembling intestinal Paneth cells in the testis, indicating a dual role of SOX9 in reproductive and immune responses under radiation exposure. These insights contribute to understanding how chronic low-dose radiation impacts testicular function and immunity, with implications for radiation effects on wildlife and ecosystem health.