The Action of X-Rays on the Organism.

Abstract

X-rays can produce cancer as well as destroy it. The action of X-rays, therefore, will be understood only when we have first understood the mechanism of growth in tissue cells. One of us had shown 1 that the protoplasm is a colloidal fluid substance which reacts differently according to its immediate state of aggregation. The state of its aggregation is regulated by a substance or substances which is formed by the cells. This substance or substances has been called the archusia (S). In low concentrations (S¹) the archusia has no effect. In medium concentration (S²) it causes the cells to migrate, to coagulate extracellular proteins, engorge themselves with proteins and fat particles, or to function. In high concentrations (S³) the cell digests these proteins and fats, absorbs water, grows and divides by mitoses. In all higher concentrations (S⁴) it causes the cells to disintegrate or suffer self-digestion.

In the growth of the cell protein synthesis is not the only essential reaction, but the cell must also acquire or form a lipoid substance, the ergusia. This substance is essential for maintaining the structure of protoplasm. It is an active coagulant of protein. It is liberated by the cells in an (S²) concentration of the archusia. It is the active agent in the specific absorption of water and other substances necessary for growth, and the surface tension lowering substance necessary for the migration of the cells. The ergusia in excess in the tissue inhibits growth, as any substance, formed in any incomplete reaction, inhibits the reaction. It is also liberated by cells when they disintegrate as the result of a high concentration (S⁴) of the archusia. 2