Editorial notes

     This database, here we refer to as gHuman Radiation Cytogenetics Archivesh, is principally comprised of (1) laboratory data on human radiation cytogenetics performed in Radiation Biology Center (an inter-university collaborative research center) of Kyoto University, and (2) reviews of relevant data in literature reporting chromosome aberrations in humans exposed to ionizing radiation.

The laboratory data are presented in detail including experimental procedures, beamline setting, dosimetry and physical properties of radiation so that the users can use these data for their own analysis. The relevant data in literature, mostly in vivo surveys by dicentrics assay, have been highlighted in view of current interest on radiation risk and biological significance. We know that there are currently increasing numbers of publications reporting translocation assay by FISH technology for the assessment of past doses and dose accumulation by chronic radiation exposures. However, quantitative treatments are still limited, sometimes controversial, and biological basis of kinetics are still remained to be established, particularly for low dose and low dose-rate exposure to low LET radiation. In order avoid confusions stemming from the premature understanding of underlying mechanism at low doses the present database has basically focused on the achievement made by classical methods (dicentric assay). The problems and uncertainties therein have been discussed in the supplementary gEditorial Commenth. However, the gCommentsh are solely of ours and do not necessarily reflect the conclusion of the authors. But, we hope they stimulate further progress of science of radiation cytogenetics.

     This database has been principally compiled and updated by Dr. M. S. Sasaki, Professor of Radiation Biology Center, Kyoto University (now, Professor Emeritus). Although great care has been taken to maintain accuracy, any suggestions for correction and amendment are highly appreciated.

Radiation Biology Center, Kyoto University,
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