[Direct and mediated action of a permanent magnetic field on biological objects]

The effect of a constant magnetic field (CMF) of H = 2.3 X 10(5) A/m (2900 Oe) on the viability and radiosensitivity of E. coli B and the effect of magnetically activated water (MAW) on the radioresistance of rats were examined. The exposure did not influence the growth kinetics of E. coli B. Cell cultivation in the magnetically pretreated nutrient medium enhanced the bacterial growth. Preliminary exposure of bacterial cells to a CMF for 24 and 48 hrs increased and that for 72 hrs decreased their radioresistance. Twice a day the experimental weanlings were given MAW and the controls--tap water. The postradiation longevity of the MAW rats proved extended as compared to that of the controls. The MAW rats showed a greater osmotic stability of erythrocytes, a higher concentration of nucleic acids, and a larger count of leucocytes.