RESUMEN
This study analyzed the effects of biliprotein C-phycocyanin (C-PC) on the enzymatic antioxidant defence system in lymphocytes of nuclear power-plant workers and non-exposed controls. Changes in the protein levels of manganese super oxide dismutase (MnSOD), catalase and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) were used as markers for early biological effects of a single in vitro exposure of cells to: (i) 2Gy gamma rays; (ii) 5muM C-PC; and (iii) a combination of C-PC plus irradiation with 2Gy. The results showed that C-PC selectively stimulated the lymphocyte antioxidant defence system of occupationally exposed subjects. The activation of the antioxidant protective mechanisms as part of the early radiation response was probably related to the chronic low-dose occupational exposure. The modulating capacity of C-PC at the molecular level may be of interest for the protection of occupationally exposed persons.