Implementation of a dose–response curve for γ-radiation in the Portuguese population by use of the chromosomal aberration assay

An in vitro dose–response curve following exposure to γ-radiation was determined at the IST/ITN, by use of the chromosomal aberration assay. This is the first study of this kind carried out among the Portuguese population. Un-irradiated and γ-irradiated peripheral blood lymphocytes from 16 healthy donors were cultured. A total of 22,395 metaphases were analyzed for frequency and distribution of dicentrics and centric rings, as a function of the radiation dose. The dose–response data for dicentrics and dicentrics plus centric rings were fitted by use of a linear–quadratic model: Ydic = (0.0011 ± 0.0006) + (0.0105 ± 0.0035)D + (0.0480 ± 0.0019)D2 and Ydic + rings = (0.0011 ± 0.0006) + (0.0095 ± 0.0036)D + (0.0536 ± 0.0020)D2. Also, calibration curves related to age and gender were determined, but no significant differences were found. Following the establishment of the dose–response curves, a validation experiment was carried out with three individuals. Real and estimated doses, obtained with the dose–response curves, were in agreement. These results give us confidence to apply both dose–response calibration curves in future biological dosimetry requirements.

► A dicentric dose–response curve for Portuguese population was performed.
► This study was performed in Portugal for the first time.
► 16 donors were studied to take in consideration the individual intervariability.
► We made a comparison between CABAS and Dose Estimate software.
► Ydic = (0.0011 ± 0.0006) + (0.0105 ± 0.0035)D + (0.0480 ± 0.0019)D2.