Gamma irradiated human fibroblasts: viability and proliferation activity in vitro

Abstract

Despite the wide range of basic research in the field of radiotherapy, certain aspects of therapeutic gamma radiation doses remain unknown. The present in vitro investigation of irradiated human skin fibroblasts is aimed at finding radioactive dosage, which would maintain anti-tumours effect without inflicting damage to healthy cells. Furthermore, the authors observe the timing required for cell damage detection as well as the recovery after the radiation stress. Thus, it was shown, that 24-48 hours after gamma irradiation at 2, 4, 12 Gy is a period of time sufficient to identify the dose affecting fibroblast vital functions. It was additionally found that radiation of 2 Gy has no effect on viability and proliferation capacity of dermis cells. Consequently, we can assume that clinical risks of long-term complications (e. g., fibrosis) after such radioactive exposure is lower than after the 4-12 Gy radiation impact. Moreover, the 48 hour period is not enough to identify reparation time required by the cells which have been gamma irradiated by more than 2 Gy.