Distribution of radiation-induced exchange aberrations in human chromosomes 1, 2 and 4

To examine the distribution of radiation-induced breakpoints in chromosomes 1, 2 and 4 both in relation to their DNA content and by localization of the breaks along each chromosome.

The work consisted of two studies, one with chromosomal aberrations found in persons after accidental exposure in Estonia in 1994 and another involving aberrations seen in in vitro-irradiated lymphocytes. Localization of breakpoints in painted chromosomes involved in complete exchange-type aberrations was conducted by applying a computerized measuring system on stored image-files.

The yield of exchanges in chromosomes 1, 2 and 4 in both studies was equal to that expected from their DNA content. In contrast, the breakpoint location of complete exchanges within these chromosomes was not random. Chromosomes 1 and 4 contained more breaks in the middle parts of the p and q arms, whereas breaks were observed more uniformly along chromosome 2. Complete exchanges, however, were very rare in the terminal regions of all three chromosomes, most probably resulting from limitations in the resolution of small painted pieces.