Hemochromatosis heterozygotes may constitute a radiation-sensitive subpopulation.

Journal Article · Wed Dec 01 00:00:00 EST 1999 · Radiation Research

OSTI ID:15001385

Stevens, R G ^[1]; Morris, James E ^[2]; Anderson, Larry E ^[2]

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1. GEORGE A GRANT INC
2. BATTELLE (PACIFIC NW LAB)

A primary mechanism of radiation-induced DNA damage is by generation of free radicals. Chronically increased oxidative stress from elevated body iron may increase radiation sensitivity by decreasing cellular oxygen radical scavenging capability. Hemochromatosis heterozygotes have elevated body iron. Low-level radiation sensitization by iron may be particularly pertinent for risk of breast cancer. Since ten percent of the population appears to be heterozygous for the hemochromatosis gene, a radiosensitizing effect would have pervasive implications.

• Research Organization: Pacific Northwest National Lab., Richland, WA (US)
• Sponsoring Organization: US Department of Energy (US)
• DOE Contract Number: AC06-76RL01830
• OSTI ID: 15001385
• Report Number(s): PNNL-SA-33953; EW4090100; TRN: US200404%%100
• Journal Information: Radiation Research, Vol. 153, Issue 6; Other Information: PBD: 1 Dec 1999
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
DNA DAMAGES
HYBRIDIZATION
IRON
MAMMARY GLANDS
NEOPLASMS
OXYGEN
RADIATIONS
RADICALS
SCAVENGING
SENSITIVITY