Which factor is inversely proportional to tissue radiosensitivity?

The degree of cell differentiation is inversely proportional to tissue radiosensitivity because more differentiated cells tend to be less sensitive to radiation. This is rooted in the biological principles of how cells respond to radiation. Undifferentiated or rapidly dividing cells, such as those found in tissues like bone marrow, skin, and the lining of the gastrointestinal tract, are more susceptible to radiation damage. In contrast, highly differentiated cells, which have specialized functions and typically do not divide frequently, exhibit greater resistance to the harmful effects of radiation.

For instance, muscle cells and nerve cells, which are highly specialized, have a lower rate of proliferation, making them more resilient against radiation exposure. In therapeutic contexts, understanding this relationship is crucial for predicting which tissues may be at higher risk during radiation therapy. Thus, the degree of cell differentiation plays a vital role in determining how sensitive different types of cells and tissues are to radiation.