Which type of cells is most sensitive to radiation exposure?

Stem cells are the most sensitive to radiation exposure because they have a high level of mitotic activity and the potential to rapidly divide and differentiate into various cell types. Their undifferentiated nature makes them more susceptible to the damaging effects of radiation, which can interfere with their ability to divide properly and perform their functions.

In general, rapidly dividing cells are more vulnerable to radiation damage because radiation can cause breaks in the DNA strands of cells that are actively proliferating. Since stem cells are foundational for the generation of different tissues in the body, any damage to them can lead to significant implications for growth and repair processes.

The other cell types mentioned, including central nervous system cells, liver cells, and sense organ cells, typically have lower rates of division and are more differentiated, which generally affords them some level of protection against the effects of radiation compared to stem cells.