[Radiation carcinogenesis as a general biological problem]

The initial steps of radiation carcinogenesis have been briefly surveyed. Actuality of their further research is shown on the molecular level. There is a discussion going on about the close connection of such research with basic directions in the development of biology, such as: genome destabilization, gene repression and activation, regulation of growth activity factors, the role of biomembranes in the processes, and synergism in the action of factors on live systems.