Abstract

Evidence for the role of energy migration in irradiated DNA is considered. In particular, data from fast time-resolved spectroscopy of DNA, in the solid state, irradiated with high energy pulsed electrons is discussed. The hydration layer in DNA has only a small effect on the intensity of the fluorescence emitted during pulse irradiation, but does influence post-irradiation changes as measured by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The short-lived fluorescence spectra from pulse-irradiated solid mixtures of DNA containing relatively low concentrations of the electron-affinic compound misonidazole, are reduced in intensity compared with the spectrum of pure DNA. These rapid quenching effects are interpreted in terms of the migration of energy liberated during irradiation.

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