Sulphur Compounds and “Chemical Repair” in Radiation Biology

Abstract

When living cells are subjected to ionizing radiation, several functions may be impaired. Although the metabolic functions may continue, the cell may no longer be capable of propagation. This effect is called reproductive cell death. It is the most commonly-determined biological endpoint. On the other hand, the cell may still be able to divide, but some of the information of its genome is altered, a mutation has occurred. At much higher doses than required for these two effects to occur, the functioning of the cell may come to a complete stand-still (metabolic cell death). It is generally accepted that for the two first-mentioned events the essential target is the DNA¹ In fact, it is observed that even one (unrepaired) DNA break means already reproductive cell death. The membrane has occasionally been discussed as an alternative important target, and it appears to be certain that it contributes to the metabolic cell death.¹