The effects of ionizing radiation on cellular functions

Abstract

Ionizing radiation is energy in the form of waves or particles that dislodge electrons from atoms, including X-rays, gamma rays, and various particles such as alpha and beta particles. Human exposure to radiation primarily occurs through natural sources, occupational exposure, and medical diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. This radiation can damage DNA either directly or indirectly. The most severe effect on DNA is double-strand breaks, which can lead to genomic abnormalities such as mutations, chromosomal aberrations, and cellular dysfunctions. If DNA is not repaired or is repaired incorrectly, it can ultimately result in cancer over the long term. Moreover, ionizing radiation can affect cellular and organelle structures such as the cell membrane, mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complex, lysosomes,
and the nucleus, which may cause cellular abnormalities. Such cellular damage can affect multiple biological systems, including the respiratory, nervous, hematopoietic, gastrointestinal, and integumentary systems. Exposure to high doses of radiation increases the risk of cancer and reduces the body’s ability to respond to stress, potentially leading to health problems that may not manifest until many years after the initial exposure. Therefore, radiation protection for personnel working under hazardous conditions should follow the radiation safety principles of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and the As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) principle, which emphasizes minimizing radiation exposure to the lowest reasonably achievable level without compromising tasks or missions, in order to ensure the safety and health of workers and the public residing in nearby areas.