One-carbon metabolism and ionizing radiation: a multifaceted interaction.

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Molecular Biology
• Epigenetics

Background:

• Ionizing radiation (IR) is a known genotoxic and epigenotoxic stressor.
• The epigenetic effects of IR and their underlying mechanisms are not fully understood.
• Genotoxicity of IR is well-characterized, but epigenotoxicity requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose one-carbon metabolism alterations as a key mechanism for IR-induced epigenetic changes.
• To review existing evidence on the interaction between IR and one-carbon metabolism.
• To discuss clinical applications of modulating one-carbon metabolism for radiation therapy.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual review integrating existing experimental and clinical data.
• Analysis of the proposed link between IR exposure and one-carbon metabolism pathways.
• Discussion of potential therapeutic strategies targeting one-carbon metabolism.

Main Results:

• IR exposure is hypothesized to induce changes in one-carbon metabolism.
• These metabolic alterations are proposed as a prerequisite for epigenetic modifications.
• Evidence from studies supports the interaction between IR and one-carbon metabolism.

Conclusions:

• One-carbon metabolism is a critical mediator of IR-induced epigenetic alterations.
• Targeting one-carbon metabolism may offer strategies for normal tissue protection during radiation therapy.
• Modulating one-carbon metabolism could enhance the radiosensitivity of cancer cells.