The present invention provides methods of protecting irradiated eukaryoticcells such as irradiated mammalian epithelialcells, from the deleterious effect of microbial pathogens such as Pseudomonasaeruginosa. The invention also providesmethods of protecting irradiated organisms from such deleterious effects,resulting in reduced mortality and morbidity. Furtherprovided are kits containing relatively high molecular weight biocompatiblepolymers such as polyethylene glycol, optionally supplementedwith a protective polymer such as dextran and/or essential pathogen nutrientssuch as L-glutamine, along with instructionsfor administration to organisms to be exposed to radiation.
