Detection of DNA double-strand breaks in boron neutron capture reaction

We evaluated DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) induced by boron neutron capture reaction (BNCR) using plasmid DNA, boron solution, and gel electrophoresis. The amount of the linear form of DNA produced by DSBs increased with the neutron-beam irradiation dose. The amount of the open-circular form of DNA produced by single-strand breaks (SSBs) increased with the neutron-beam irradiation dose and the 10B concentration. The model facilitated quantification of BNCR-induced DSBs and SSBs, irrespective of the DNA repair mechanism.