Genome-wide expression changes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae in response to high-LET ionizing radiation

To understand the yeast response to high-linear energy transfer (LET) ionizing radiation (IR), we investigated global gene expression in yeast irradiated by three types of high-LET IR (fast neutrons, heavy ions, and thermal neutrons) and gamma rays using DNA microarray analysis. Stationary cells were irradiated by each IR and recultured in yeast-peptone-dextrose medium to allow repair for 40 min. RNA was then isolated from three independent samples of irradiated yeast. Genes involved in the Mec1p kinase pathway, which functions in DNA damage response, were induced by all forms of high-LET IR and by gamma rays. Some genes related to oxidative stress and the cell wall were induced by all forms of high-LET IRs. Gene expression patterns as a function of each type of high-LET IR were examined statistically by one-way analysis of variance. This analysis demonstrated the existence of irradiation-specific responses. For example, genes involved in ribosomal DNA synthesis were specifically induced by fast neutron irradiation, while the ubiquitin-proteasome system and heat shock response were specifically induced by thermal neutron irradiation. The study characterizes high-LET IR-induced gene expression and provides a molecular understanding of subsequent adaptation in yeast.