Simple method to demonstrate radiation-inducible radiation resistance in microbial cells.

A simple method for detection of radiation-inducible radiation resistance was developed by irradiating aliquots (0.01 ml) of cell suspension on agar plates. Part of each experimental plate was subjected to an induction treatment, and subsequent radiation resistance was compared with that of untreated cells on the same plate. The UV radiation resistance of a Micrococcus sp. was increased approximately 1.6 times by an induction treatment. This simple procedure of irradiating cells in a "fixed" position on agar avoided washing, centrifugation, and cell enumeration required in traditional methods.