Effect of Gamma Irradiation Dose on Papain Toxicity

The effect of a wide range of γ-radiation dose from 250 to 3000 kGy on the acute toxicity of papain administered to laboratory animals has been studied. It has been discovered that preliminary γ-irradiation of papain up to 1000 kGy reduces by more than five times the toxicity of its aqueous dispersions in the case of intraperitoneal administration. A further increase in the radiation dose to 3000 kGy does not lead to a noticeable change in the toxic effect. The study results indicate that γ-irradiation of papain may be used to reduce its toxicity.