Particle-induced chromosome aberrations and mutations: an overview

Energy depositions by sparsely and densely ionizing radiation in the cellular DNA are responsible for deleterious radiobiological effects like the induction of chromosome aberrations or gene mutations. However, due to differences in the spatial pattern of energy deposition the action of densely ionizing radiation is quantitatively and qualitatively different from that of sparsely ionizing radiation. By the use of new molecular-biological techniques a deeper insight into the molecular events underlaying particle-induced genetic changes has been obtained. The present paper will attempt to give a brief overview of progress in chromosome and mutation studies. Furthermore, recent published data on delayed genetic effects of cellular exposure to ionizing radiation will be summarized.