Radiation-induced changes in the properties and functions of fibroblasts

Abstract

This review is devoted to the analysis of the literature containing experimental and clinical data on radiation-induced changes in connective tissue and its cellular component to create an overall picture of the leading mechanisms of radiation fibrosis development.The review analyzed publications for the period 1995-2022, presented in three academic databases: Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science. In the search process, various combinations of logical operators (or, and, not) were used to combine search keywords (ionizing radiation, connective tissue, fibroblasts) to find relevant studies in academic databases. The development of radiation fibrosis is determined by radiation-induced changes in the properties and functions of fibroblasts. The article discusses the main biological effects of irradiation of fibroblastic cells with X-ray, gamma and alpha radiation, presents the mechanisms of radiation-induced differentiation in the fibroblast/myofibroblast system, and also notes the role of connective tissue microenvironment and oxidative stress associated with mitochondria in this process. The main experimentally established effects presented in the review and the general scheme of the mechanisms of non-lethal action of ionizing radiation on fibroblasts contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms of radiation-induced fibrosis development