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Chromosome aberration analysis in Concorde pilots
1FB 1, Medizinische Physik, Universität Bremen, Postfach 330440, 28334, Bremen, Germany. ah@physik.uni-bremen.de
Mutation Research
|June 6, 2000
Summary
Concorde pilots showed significantly increased chromosomal aberrations, including dicentric chromosomes and micronuclei, indicating higher biological risks from cosmic radiation exposure during supersonic flights. These findings suggest biological data should complement physical dosimetry for high-speed transport safety assessments.
Area of Science:
- * Human radiation biology
- * Aerospace medicine
- * Cytogenetics
Background:
- * High-speed transport like the Concorde involves exposure to increased levels of cosmic radiation.
- * Understanding the biological impact of this radiation is crucial for crew safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To assess chromosomal damage in Concorde pilots exposed to supersonic flight radiation.
- * To compare biological data with physical dose estimations.
Main Methods:
- * Analysis of chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei, and sister chromatid exchanges in lymphocytes.
- * Comparison between 18 Concorde pilots and 10 control individuals.
Main Results:
- * Significant eightfold increase in dicentric chromosomes and elevated micronuclei yield in Concorde pilots.
- * No significant difference in sister chromatid exchanges.
- * Dicentric yield higher in supersonic crews compared to subsonic, though not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- * Cosmic radiation, particularly high LET radiation, significantly influences chromosomal aberrations.
- * Estimated annual doses ranged from 11 to 37 mSv.
- * Biological data, such as chromosomal aberration frequencies, are sensitive indicators of radiation's biological effectiveness and should inform high-speed transport safety.