Perspectives on the formation of radiation-induced exchange aberrations.
Controversy surrounding the proposed mechanism of radiation-induced translocation has existed virtually since the inception of radiation genetics/cytogenetics, some 75 years ago. Chief among these controversies is how close chromosomes have to be to one another at the time of exposure for an exchange to occur. An historically related issue, and one that continues to generate lively debate, is whether both chromosomes participating in an exchange must sustain radiation damage, or whether instead a single damaged site on one chromosome is sufficient. The intent of this paper is to present one person's perspective as we revisit these two long-standing issues, armed with more recent knowledge in three key areas. These include a new-found appreciation for the complexity of chromosome rearrangements; molecular processes of recombination that are likely to be involved; and the architecture of the nucleus regarding the relationship among chromosomes during interphase.
Cornforth
Michael N
MN
Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-0884, USA. mcornfor@utmb.edu
D000818:Animals; D002467:Cell Nucleus / Q000235:genetics*; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D002869:Chromosome Aberrations; D019457:Chromosome Breakage; D020223:Chromosome Painting / Q000379:methods*; D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D005057:Eukaryotic Cells; D006801:Humans; D007399:Interphase; D051379:Mice; D011839:Radiation, Ionizing; D014178:Translocation, Genetic