DNA Mutations Discovered in the Children of Chernobyl Workers
9 days ago
- #Chernobyl
- #DNA damage
- #radiation exposure
- Researchers found DNA damage from Chernobyl radiation in children of exposed individuals, marking the first clear transgenerational link.
- The study focused on clustered de novo mutations (cDNMs) rather than new DNA mutations, showing a significant increase in offspring of irradiated parents.
- Findings based on whole genome sequencing of 130 Chernobyl cleanup workers' offspring, 110 German military radar operators' offspring, and 1,275 unexposed controls.
- Average cDNMs per child: 2.65 (Chernobyl group), 1.48 (German radar group), 0.88 (control group), with higher parental radiation doses linked to more clusters in children.
- Health risks are minimal as most cDNMs likely occur in non-coding DNA, not directly affecting protein-coding genes.
- Study limitations include estimated radiation exposure from historical records and potential bias from voluntary participation.
- Research underscores the need for safety precautions and monitoring for those at risk of prolonged radiation exposure.