To determine if a cell’s metabolic state is critical in determining its response to low doses of radiation. This will be possible by modulating cell signaling pathways.

Project Goals:

To compare the role and impact of oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions that are part of normal metabolism with that of the redox reactions that are induced by low dose, low dose rate gamma-ray exposures on the responsiveness of cells to radiation.

Experimental Approach:

This study will measure chromosome damage and the rate of telomere loss (the structures at the end of chromosomes) in a novel three-dimensional tissue-like system. This information will be used as an indication of to study biological damage and antioxidant capacity inside normal and irradiated cells.

Expected Outcomes:

The influence of the metabolic state of the cell on chromosome damage and rate of telomere loss can be compared with and without radiation exposure.