California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Written Practice Exam

Which cells of the body are least susceptible to radiation?

1. Nerve cells

2. Blood cells

3. Muscle cells

4. Skin cells

The correct answer is: Muscle cells

Muscle cells are the least susceptible to radiation because they have a lower rate of cell division compared to nerve, blood, and skin cells. Cells that rapidly divide are more vulnerable to damage from radiation, as the radiation can affect the DNA and disrupt important cellular processes. Nerve cells, blood cells, and skin cells all have high rates of division and are thus more susceptible to radiation damage. Additionally, skin cells are constantly exposed to external sources of radiation, such as sunlight, making them more vulnerable compared to muscle cells that are more protected within the body.