radiosensitivity

biology

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July 13, 2026

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Radiosensitivity refers to an organism's or cell's susceptibility to the effects of radiant energy. Living organisms can be killed by radiation if exposed to a sufficiently high dose, though the lethal dose varies significantly between species. Humans are generally among the most radiosensitive organisms.12

The effects of radiation on cells include interference with cell division, damage to chromosomes and genes (mutations), and cell death. Dividing cells are typically more radiosensitive than non-dividing cells. This sensitivity is a crucial factor in radiation therapy for cancer, where the aim is to target rapidly dividing cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy, less radiosensitive tissues.23

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radiation
Effects on the cell
…as cancer cells) are more radiosensitive than nondividing cells. As noted above, a dose of 1–2 Sv is sufficient to kill the average dividing cell, whereas nondividing cells can usually withstand many times as much radiation without overt signs of injury. It is when cells attempt to divide for the…
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…as cancer cells) are more radiosensitive than nondividing cells. As noted above, a dose of 1–2 Sv is sufficient to kill the average dividing cell, whereas nondividing cells can usually withstand many times as much radiation without overt signs of injury. It is when cells attempt to divide for the…
Read More