Classical radiation biology, the bystander effect and paradigms: a reply.
Although, in retrospect, it can be seen that the bystander effect and the related effect of genomic instability were observed well before they were recognized as such, they have not been able to be accommodated within the existing understanding of how radiation causes late effects, which provides the basis for radiological protection standards. It is argued here that before these effects can be fully researched and there can be full confidence in radiological protection, a paradigm shift that provides a framework in which these effects can be considered alongside the well established effects of radiation is needed. In particular this framework will encompass the epigenetic as well as genetic aspects of radiation biology. Examples of how this might be achieved are given.
Baverstock
Keith
K
Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Kuopio, Finland. Keith.baverstock@uku.fi
Belyakov
Oleg V
OV
D000818:Animals; D024201:Bystander Effect / Q000528:radiation effects*; D004249:DNA Damage / Q000528:radiation effects; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D011853:Radiobiology