THE MICROBEAM AS A TOOL IN RADIOBIOLOGY
The science of radiobiology embraces the basic problems of biology. In order to investigate these at a cellular level in the higher plants and animals, it is necessary to apply radiation to the individual cells. This can be done in vivo only by a microbeam of protons or heavier particles. A description is given of a microbeam of 22 mev deuterons which is as small as 0.025 mm in diameter. This may be directed at discrete parts of plants and animals to irradiate very small groups of cells with accurately calibrated dosages. Using this microbeam it has been shown that in certain organs, enormous doses of radiation can be delivered to microscopic volumes without apparent cellular injury. This constitutes a method for measuring the radiation sensitivity of cells in situ, and independent of the radiation sensitivity of surrounding cells. The microbeam will simulate the biological effect of a heavy cosmic ray particle, and it is shown that these particles do not constitute a special hazard for space flight. (auth)
- Research Organization:
- Brookhaven National Lab., Upton, N.Y.
- DOE Contract Number:
- AT(30-2)-GEN-16
- NSA Number:
- NSA-17-037017
- OSTI ID:
- 4659992
- Report Number(s):
- BNL-6621
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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