Gamma ray effects on trophozoites of Entamoeba histolytica

Abstract

Cultures of Entamoeba histolytica were subjected to pure gamma radiation from a cobalt-60 source. No effect upon population growth was noticed following dosages below 100,000 RAD. A noticeable increase in lag phase was observed following exposure to about 100,000 RAD. A dose of more than 195,300 RAD resulted in death as indicated by failure of cultures to grow. The relation between increasing lag phase and increasing dosages of radiation is represented by a logarithmic straight line.