the process of artificially increasing the radiosensitivity of biological objects; it is accompanied by intensification of the effects of ionizing radiation.

There are three principal methods of radiosensitization. The first involves a decrease in the protective mechanisms of the cells and organisms themselves. Such a decrease may be brought about by means of the chemical bonding of endogenic thiols, which is accompanied by an increase in the oxidation-reduction potential in the cells. The second method of radiosensitization involves suppression of reparation after radiation damage through the use of acriflavine, caffein, or chemical agents that disrupt oxidative phosphorylation in the cells. Hormonal suppression of the regeneration of hemopoietic and lymphoid tissue is also possible. The third principal method of radiosensitization involves the creation of unfavorable conditions for the raising and maintenance of irradiated objects, which often leads to aggravation of the effects of irradiation.

The elaboration of methods of radiosensitization is significant in increasing the effectiveness of radiation sterilization and the use of radiation to treat malignant neoplasms.