Abstract
Mechanism of radioprotective action of Tween 80, the most effective radioprotector for E, coli B/r in aerated condition among water soluble non-ionic surfactants, was investigated. Experimental results show that the protective effects of Tween so depend mostly on polyoxyethylene groups and slightly on sorbitol moiety. In the presence of 0.06 M of MEA, protective effects of Tween 80 are not additive but rather competitive. In spite of good protection for B/r, Tween 80 does not protect Bs-1. This strain specific property suggests the action of Tween 80 will possibly concern to the repair systems rather than DNA itself.
