Which type of cells are characterized as being less sensitive to the effects of radiation?

Radioresistant cells are characterized as being less sensitive to the effects of radiation due to their inherent biological properties. These cells can withstand higher doses of radiation without sustaining significant damage compared to radiosensitive cells. This resistance is often related to factors such as the type of cell, its phase in the cell cycle, and its ability to repair DNA damage caused by radiation exposure.

For example, cells that rapidly divide, such as those found in the gastrointestinal tract or bone marrow, tend to be more radiosensitive because they are in a constant state of growth and repair. In contrast, radioresistant cells, often seen in tissues like muscle or nerve, have a slower rate of division and more effective DNA repair mechanisms, which contributes to their ability to survive radiation exposure.

Understanding the distinction between these cell types is crucial in fields such as oncology and radiation therapy, where the goal is to target cancerous, radiosensitive cells while minimizing damage to healthy, radioresistant tissues.