Multiple fractions of gamma rays induced resistance to cis-dichloro-diammineplatinum (II) and methotrexate in human HeLa cells.

Previous irradiation could induce changes in the cell-sensitivity to additional cytotoxic agents. In this study we examined whether the sensitivity to additional cytotoxic agents was affected in cells irradiated with multiple fractions of gamma rays if these agents were given at the time when the lesions induced in DNA by radiation have already been repaired. Human cervix carcinoma HeLa cells were irradiated daily with 0.5 Gy of gamma rays five times a week for 6 weeks. When the fractionation regimen was completed, that is when the cells had accumulated the total dose of 15 Gy of gamma rays, the sensitivity of these cells to gamma rays, UV light, cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum (II) (cis-DDP), methotrexate (MTX), and hydroxyurea (HU) was examined and compared to control cells. Results revealed that preirradiated cells did not change sensitivity to gamma rays and UV light, but that they increased the resistance to cis-DDP, and MTX (especially for higher concentrations of MTX), and increased sensitivity to HU (for lower concentrations of HU). The increased resistance to cis-DDP was also measurable up to 30 days after the last dose of gamma rays. The results indicate that preirradiation of HeLa cells with multiple fractions of gamma rays could change their sensitivity to additional cytotoxic agents, and that this is a relatively long-lasting effect. Our results suggest that caution is needed in medical application of radiation combined with chemical treatment.