Radiosensitization of Mammalian Cells byP-nitroacetophenone

Abstract

Nitrobenzene analogues of p-nitroacetophenone (PNAP) have been tested on Chinese-hamster cells for their ability to sensitize hypoxic cells to x-rays. Seven compounds which are more effective than PNAP at a given non-toxic concentration are reported. One of these, 1-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)pyridinium chloride (DNPC), approaches the nitrofuran class of radiosensitizers in effectiveness. A correlation between cellular radiosensitization and drug electron affinity is examined for its usefulness in predicting radiosensitizing potential of compounds in the nitrobenzene series.