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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
09:28
Evaluation of the Spatial Distribution of γH2AX following Ionizing Radiation
Published on: August 7, 2010
[Association between gamma-H2AX and DNA double-strand breaks]
1National Institute for Occupational Health and Poison Control, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China.
Wei Sheng Yan Jiu = Journal of Hygiene Research
|October 24, 2007
Summary
Histone H2AX phosphorylation forms gamma-H2AX foci, a reliable marker for DNA double-strand breaks (DSB). These foci, detectable via immunofluorescence, are induced by various factors, aiding DSB detection.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Histone H2AX is a variant found throughout the genome.
- DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) trigger H2AX phosphorylation.
- Phosphorylated H2AX forms gamma-H2AX foci.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review the mechanisms of gamma-H2AX formation.
- Examine the association between gamma-H2AX and DSB.
- Highlight the role of gamma-H2AX as a DSB biomarker.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on H2AX phosphorylation and DSB.
- Analysis of factors inducing gamma-H2AX formation.
- Discussion of immunofluorescence assay for gamma-H2AX detection.
Main Results:
- Gamma-H2AX foci formation is a conserved response to DSB.
- Physical, chemical, and biological agents can induce gamma-H2AX.
- Immunofluorescence assays for gamma-H2AX are a gold standard for DSB detection.
Conclusions:
- Gamma-H2AX is a sensitive and specific marker for DNA double-strand breaks.
- Understanding gamma-H2AX formation mechanisms is crucial for DNA damage research.
- Gamma-H2AX detection provides a valuable tool for assessing genomic integrity.
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