Bystander effect (radiobiology)

Bystander Effect (Radiobiology)

The Bystander Effect in Radiobiology refers to the phenomenon where unirradiated cells exhibit effects of radiation due to signals received from nearby irradiated cells. This effect challenges the traditional belief that the biological effects of radiation are due to direct DNA damage.

Pronunciation

By-stand-er Ef-fect

Etymology

The term "bystander effect" is derived from the English words "bystander," meaning a person present but not involved, and "effect," meaning a change that is a result or consequence of an action or other cause. In the context of radiobiology, it refers to the indirect effects of radiation on cells.

Related Terms

• Radiation
• DNA Damage
• Cell Signaling
• Radiation Therapy
• Radiation Protection

Explanation

The bystander effect in radiobiology is a phenomenon that has been observed in both in vitro and in vivo studies. It is characterized by biological responses in cells that have not been directly exposed to radiation but are in close proximity to cells that have. These responses can include genetic mutations, cell death, and changes in cell growth and differentiation.

The bystander effect is thought to be mediated by intercellular communication, either through gap junctions or through the release of soluble factors into the extracellular medium. This has significant implications for Radiation Therapy, as it suggests that the effects of radiation may extend beyond the targeted cells, potentially leading to unintended damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Implications

The bystander effect has important implications for Radiation Protection and the development of strategies for minimizing the harmful effects of radiation exposure. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the bystander effect could lead to the development of new therapeutic approaches for treating radiation-induced damage.

See Also

• Radiation-induced Bystander Effect
• Radiation Hormesis
• Radiation-induced Genomic Instability

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Bystander effect (radiobiology)
• Wikipedia's article - Bystander effect (radiobiology)

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