Linear energy transfer (LET) effects in the radiation-induced inactivation of papain

Abstract

The inactivation of dilute aqueous solutions of papain by radiations of varying linear energy transfer has been studied in N₂, N₂O and O₂-saturated solutions. The results obtained with low LET radiation are very similar to those previously reported by Lin, Clement, Gaucher and Armstrong. The additional data obtained at higher LET, when radical product yields are reduced and the yield of hydrogen peroxide is increased, show that the hydrogen atom is more important in the inactivation of papain than previously considered.