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Cell Radiosensitivity, LET and RBE
Young, dividing cells are most radiosensitive. High-LET radiation does more damage per gray than x-rays.
The law
The law of Bergonié and Tribondeau (1906) states that cells are more radiosensitive when they divide often and are less specialized. Immature stem cells and cells with high metabolic rates are the most sensitive. Lymphocytes, spermatogonia, red cell precursors and intestinal crypt cells rank high. Mature nerve and muscle cells rank low. The fetus, with rapidly dividing cells, is more sensitive than an adult.