Modulation of radiation-induced cytogenetic damage in human peripheral blood lymphocytes by hypothermia

The frequency of micronuclei was markedly lower in PBL harvested at 72 h, 96 h and 120 h following irradiation at 0 °C as compared to 37 °C. This indicates that the temperature effect observed in peripheral blood lymphocytes after irradiation is not related to a temporary perturbation of the cell cycle. Also, it is not due to selective elimination of damaged cells by apoptosis.