Abstract
THE formation of free radicals in biological systems exposed to ionizing radiation is well established1–7. Some of the induced radicals, as well as some of those occurring naturally8, have long lives9–11. The surprising stability of the induced radicals may have far-reaching biological implications. As an example of stability, cystine, on irradiation in vacuo at room temperature, gave electron paramagnetic resonance signals even after 35 days12. Numerous investigations in connexion with irradiation damage of proteins and amino-acids confirm the stability of these radicals13–18. This stability must be considered carefully in assessing the wholesomeness of foods preserved by ionizing radiation. Such assessment involves the concepts of stored chemical energy and consequent radio-mimetic hazard19–20. Chromosomal aberrations have been shown to occur in germinating barley and onion seeds following treatment with orange or apple juice, which had been irradiated with 200 Krad of γ-rays21. Although the radiomimetic precursors generated by irradiation of fruit juices have not been ascertained, preliminary studies indicate that peroxides may be implicated.
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SHAH, J., MAXIE, E. & LANDGRAF, W. Manganese Free Radicals in Cobalt-60 Gamma-irradiated Strawberries. Nature 210, 210 (1966). https://doi.org/10.1038/210210a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/210210a0
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