Secondary responses in the system--non-targeted effects.

摘要

This summary is the result of two separate but overlapping sessions at this workshop. The sessions began with an interesting discussion on exactly what is meant by "non-targeted effects." Part of this debate revolves around the terminology used to define non-targeted effects; i.e., there likely is a target in the cell that prompts the response. Thus, what do we really mean by "non-DNA targeted effects?" Are adaptive responses and low-dose radiation hypersensitivity non-targeted effects or low-dose effects? Generally both are considered low-dose effects because a small dose of radiation is required to elicit the effects that are apparent after high doses. However, if an adaptive response can be induced in non-irradiated cells, tissues, organs or organisms as the result of a signal produced by irradiated cells, then it can be considered a non-targeted effect. Likewise, genomic instability can be considered the result of targeted radiation as well as biological effects occurring in cells receiving signal(s) from irradiated cells. Clear definitions for non-targeted effects are required and should be the subject of a focused workshop to this end.