Enhancement of Radiation Lethal Effect on Microorganisms by Sodium Chloride Treatment during Irradiation

Abstract

Enhancement of radiation lethal effect on microorganisms by NaCl action during irradiation is observed. The effects of radiation dose, dose rates, cell concentration and pre-irradiation on this phenomenon are investigated. This enhancing action of NaCl appears to have no direct correlation to NaCl tolerance of cells. Its possible mechanism is discussed from a viewpoint of free radical hypothesis.