How might radiation exposure affect the immune system?

Radiation exposure can significantly impact the immune system, primarily through suppression of immune function. When an organism is exposed to radiation, it can damage the cells that are vital for a properly functioning immune system, particularly those found in the bone marrow and lymphatic tissues. Hematopoietic stem cells, responsible for generating a variety of blood cells, including lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell critical for immune responses), are particularly sensitive to radiation.

This suppression of immune function can lead to a reduction in the overall number of immune cells available to respond to pathogens and infections. As these cells are essential for detecting and responding to threats, their depletion can compromise the body’s ability to defend itself effectively, resulting in increased vulnerability to infections and possibly contributing to the development of certain diseases.

Other options suggest effects such as enhancing immune response or increasing antibody production, which are contrary to the known effects of radiation. While certain doses of radiation might have varying effects on different aspects of immune function, the consensus is that significant exposure generally leads to impairment rather than enhancement.