The Effect of Metal Ions on the Radiation Sensitivity of Catalase

Abstract
The influence of metal ions (Cu2+, Mn2+, Fe3+) on the radiation sensitivity of catalase was investigated spectrophotometrically. The radiation dose varied between 0 and 2. 7 X 106 r. The protective effect can be explained by a radical scavenging mechanism. A reaction of metal ions with hydrated electrons (e- aq ) seems to be the primary process. Radiobiological implications are discussed.