The effects of low doses of low-intensity ionizing radiation on DNA structure and function

Abstract

Chronic effects of low doses of low-intensity ionizing radiation (IR) on biological objects have gained great social significance. This has given a considerable impetus to research into the biological effects and mechanisms of such exposures, both in Russia and abroad. In this paper, an overview of the physicochemical and molecular basis of IR influence at low doses is provided. Means of cell protection from radiation damage are studied and an analysis of the typical features and differences in the radiation effects at low and high doses is carried out. We considered DNA radiation damage, both in cell cultures and in vivo, as well as the processes and results of their repair. Particular attention is paid to changes in the basic paradigms of biological radiation effects at low doses.