[Hypoxic tumor cells--target for directed modification of radiosensitivity in radiotherapy]

Two peculiarities of tumor hypoxic cell metabolism developing during adaptation to hypoxia--the lowering of respiratory intensity and a change-over from respiration to glycolysis were considered. They form the basis for tissue radiosensitivity modification in different directions in tumor radiation therapy. The first peculiarity of metabolism makes it possible to use hypoxic gaseous mixtures for the predominant protection of normal tissues, and the second artificial hyperglycemia for a selective enhancement of tumor radiation injuries.