Which cell types are most sensitive to radiation damage?

The reason that cells that are actively dividing are the most sensitive to radiation damage lies in their biological processes. Radiation primarily affects the DNA within a cell, and actively dividing cells, such as those found in blood, skin, and the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, are constantly undergoing replication and division. This high level of activity means their DNA is more susceptible to the effects of radiation, which can lead to mutations or cell death.

When radiation interacts with a cell, it can cause ionization and break DNA strands, disrupting the cellular processes necessary for normal division and function. In cells that are rapidly proliferating, the chance of these types of damage impacting the cell's ability to successfully complete mitosis is significantly increased, leading to greater sensitivity to radiation.

In contrast, muscle cells and fat cells are generally not rapidly dividing and have more stable DNA, making them less affected by radiation. Neural cells, while also sensitive due to their complexity and important functions, have a much lower rate of division compared to actively dividing cells. Consequently, their sensitivity is not on par with that of cells engaged in frequent mitotic cycles.