Which type of tissue is typically the most radio-resistant?

• A. Nervous tissue
• B. Muscle tissue
• C. Bone tissue
• D. Connective tissue

Answer: (B)

Muscle tissue is typically considered the most radio-resistant among the various types of tissues listed. Radio-resistance refers to how well a tissue can withstand exposure to ionizing radiation.

Muscle tissue has a lower rate of cell division compared to other tissues, which contributes to its radio-resistance. Tissues that divide more rapidly, like blood-forming tissues or epithelial tissues, are generally more sensitive to radiation, as ionizing radiation primarily affects actively dividing cells.

Nervous tissue, while also having a relatively low division rate, is more susceptible to radiation damage compared to muscle tissue. Bone tissue, particularly the bone marrow, is sensitive because it contains highly proliferative cells, and connective tissue, which varies widely in its composition and cellularity, generally falls in between muscle and bone in terms of radio-resistance.

Understanding the radio-sensitivity of different tissues is crucial for medical imaging and treatment planning, especially in radiological practices, to minimize damage to healthy tissues during procedures like radiation therapy.