Abstract
The effects of ionizing radiation on biological membranes have been examined by various investigators from different points of view: changes in membrane permeability, cell surface charge, receptor functions and enzyme release, and inactivation. These studies were briefly reviewed. It was also described that radiation can induce significant changes in membrane structure. The nature of radiation damage to membranes might be radiation-induced oxidation of membrane-bound SH groups. In summary, it is clear that biomembranes are highly radiosensitive and that membrane damage may play an important role in cellular radiosensitivity. It is also discussed that the structural integrity of cell membranes may be essential for the repair of DNA in E. coli.
