Mechanisms of formation of ionizing radiation-induced chromosomal aberrations: Impact of repair pathways and nuclear architecture - CHROMOSOME STRUCTURE

Chromosomal aberrations are efficiently induced by ionising radiation and contribute to a great extent to the development of cancer. Increased resolution of molecular cytogenetics along with the availability of cell lines and knockout mouse models sensitive to radiation, provide the basis for further unravelling of the mechanisms of formation of chromosomal aberrations. The proposal aims at studying the initial DNA damage, its repair and the biological factor influencing the ultimate yield of chromosomal aberrations. To reach this goal different strategies will be undertaken including exploitation of novel technologies, site-specific induction of DNA strand breaks and the use of cells with defined defects in repair. The outcome of this study will contribute to understanding of the mechanisms of chromosomal aberration formation and will ultimately help to extrapolate to the effects low doses and low dose-rates.