uri physics colloquium

Transcriptomics for Radiation Biodosimetry and Individualized Injury Prediction

Sally Amundson, PhD. Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology, Columbia University

abstract

In a climate of growing concern over the possibility of a large-scale radiological or nuclear event, there is interest in developing methods for high-throughput minimally invasive radiation biodosimetry.  By profiling the gene transcripts produced in response to radiation exposure, we are developing gene expression signatures for application to radiation biodosimetry.  Special exposure characteristics are being considered, such as the neutron component resulting from a nuclear blast, and the impact of radiation from fallout.  By measuring a biological response, it may also be possible to predict specific radiological injury to an individual, without relying on average responses expected from a given physical dose.