The RENEB operational basis: complement of established biodosimetric assays

Area of Science:

• Radiation biology
• Biodosimetry
• Network science

Background:

• Biodosimetry is crucial for assessing radiation exposure.
• Standardization of biodosimetric tools is needed for reliable emergency response.
• The Realizing the European Network of Biodosimetry (RENEB) aimed to establish a coordinated network.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish an operational basis for the RENEB network.
• To compare and standardize seven biodosimetric tools across participating laboratories.
• To prepare for large-scale radiation emergency response.

Main Methods:

• Organized two intercomparisons using irradiated blood samples and smartphone components.
• Conducted an accident exercise to practice network activation and result handling.
• Included biodosimetric tools: dicentric assay, FISH, micronucleus, PCC, gamma-H2AX, EPR, and OSL.

Main Results:

• All planned activities were successfully completed.
• Precision of dose estimates significantly improved between the two intercomparisons.
• Demonstrated the value of regular intercomparison activities for network improvement.

Conclusions:

• The RENEB network is fully operational and prepared for major radiation emergencies.
• The network possesses high capacity for analyzing radiation-induced damage in biological samples and electronic devices.
• RENEB is suitable for large-scale, low-dose effect analyses requiring high sample throughput.