Experimental validation of prevention of the development of stochastic effects of low doses of ionizing radiation based on the analysis of human lymphocytes’ chromosome aberrations

Abstract

Aim: On the basis of the cytogenetic research, to develop and validate the strategy of the measures to prevent the stochastic effects of low-doses radiation on humans. Methods: Test system with human peripheral blood lymphocytes, metaphase analysis of chromosomal aberrations was used. Cells were cultured according to the standard procedures with modifications. The analysis of painted chromosome preparations was carried out according to the conventional requirements to metaphase spread. Results: The experimental material, obtained on chromosomal level of radiosensitive cells, concerning validation of prevention strategy of stochastic effects of low doses of ionizing radiation, primarily cancer, is discussed. Its key phases are the following: estimation of individual radiosensitivity, accounting of the co-mutagens influence and use of effective atoxic radioprotectors. The practicability of the primary prevention strategy of radiogenic cancer has been evidence based, especially in case of the influence of small doses of ionizing radiation. Cytogenetic studies using G2-radiation sensitivity assay are essential component of priority populations’ health monitoring for formation high cancer risk groups and implementation developed strategies of stochastic effects prevention, including radiogenic cancer, among persons with known hypersensitivity to ionizing radiation. It applies the nuclear industry workers, medical staff (radiation oncologists, radiologists), and priority populations living in areas contaminated with radionuclides. Conclusion: Strategy for the prevention of stochastic effects of low-doses radiation, especially cancer risk, is elaborated on the cytogenetic studies basis, implies that cancer risk reduction is provided by assessment of individual radiation sensitivity (G2-radiation sensiti­vity assay), by taking into account the additional effect of co-mutagens, and with the use of non-toxic effective radioprotectors.