Mechanisms of radiation-induced endothelium damage: emerging models and technologies

Healthy tissue may be exposed to ionizing radiation (IR) during radiotherapy [1], nuclear accidents, or by weapons of mass destruction (WMD) [2]. IR produces oxidative stress resulting in acute and chronic cellular damage. The vascular endothelium, which plays an important role in organ homeostasis, is a key target of radiation damage. Microvascular endothelial cells (EC), in particular, are sensitive to radiation and radiation-induced alterations in EC structure and function. Damage to the endothelium is an important regulator of radiation damage in both targeted radiotherapy and whole-body irradiation resulting from exposure to WMD [3].

Source: Radiotherapy and Oncology - February 10, 2021 Category: Radiology Authors: Harshani Wijerathne, Jordan Langston, Qingliang Yang, Shuang Sun, Curtis Miyamoto, Laurie E. Kilpatrick, Mohammad F. Kiani Tags: Review Article Source Type: research