Gamma-irradiation of Nucleic-acid Constituents in De-aerated Aqueous Solutions

Abstract
De-aerated aqueous solutions of cytosine (conc. 10−2 M) were irradiated by γ-radiation from a 60Co source. The resultant pale-yellow solutions were analysed by paper chromatography. By using various solvent systems, the contents of the irradiated solutions were separated into five different constituents. These were uracil (a deaminated hydroxylation product), 5 and 6-hydroxy cytosines, 5,6-dihydroxy cytosine and hydroxy-hydro cytosine. Their radiation yields were measured.