Activation of bio-defense system by radon inhalation and its applicable possibility for treatment of lifestyle diseases

Adequate oxygen stress induced by radon inhalation activates chemical biological protective functions, such as induction of the synthesis of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. We studied the probability that activation of this function alleviated various oxidation injuries. The results showed that 1) Radon inhalation enhanced the antioxidative function and membrane fluidity in some mouse organs, and biogenic amine neurotransmitters in the rabbit brain; 2) To elucidate a more effective condition for radon inhalation, mice inhaled radon before carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) administration. The results show that radon inhalation alleviates CCl₄-induced hepatopathy; 3) Radon inhalation elevated antioxidant enzymes in patients with bronchial asthma and osteoarthritis; 4) Radon inhalation alleviated the symptoms of hypertension, diabetes and pain in humans; 5) Radon inhalation elevated the p53 protein level and SOD activity in the blood of residents of the Misasa radon hot spring district. Moreover, we compared biochemically the radon effects and thermal effects on humans in radon hot spring therapy, the effects of thoron and thermal treatment for aging-related diseases in humans, and the effects of radon inhalation on acute alcohol-induced oxidative injury of the liver and brain in mice. These findings suggest that radon inhalation alleviates various reactive oxygen species-related injuries. It is highly possible that adequate activation of the functions of the living body by radon inhalation can contribute to preventing or reducing reactive oxygen species-related injuries (lifestyle diseases) which are thought to involve peroxidation.