CHROMOSOMAL ABERRATIONS AS A BIOMARKER FOR COSMIC RADIATION

摘要

Higher-plant seeds were flown in spacecraft experiments for periods from a few days to 1.5 years and chromosomal aberrations were analyzed. Results of simulation experiments with accelerated heavy-ion beams are discussed. Our data show that chromosomal aberrations can be used as dosimeters. The data are compared with results obtained with human peripheral lymphocytes of in vitro. The experimental data indicate that the number of aberrant cells (multiple-aberrant cells included) rises, depending on space flight duration, HZE particle fluence, HZE particle-induced absorbed dose, and on the topography of the HZE particle passage through the cells. Methodological aspects to estimate biological effects of cosmic radiation and the associated radiation risk during long-term space flights is discussed.