Molecular Mechanisms of Radiation-Induced Oxidative Stress: A Genomic Perspective

Radiation-induced oxidative stress is one of the central mechanisms pertaining to the biological effects of ionizing radiation, affecting living systems across different levels of an organism. The cascade of events begins with the radiolysis of water and generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), radiation exposure cascades into widespread oxidative damage in DNA, proteins, and lipids, with notable consequences for genomic stability and cell fate. This review synthesises the insights from omics, primarily highlighting the roles of DNA repair pathways, chromatin remodeling, RNA processing, and metabolic rewiring in mediating cellular adaptation, injury, or death. An important dimension of radiation research is the evolutionary adaptation of organisms to chronic or naturally higher radiation environments and its probable implications for biomarker discovery. Insights from space-exploration setups, as well as high natural background radiation zones, may enable ascertain conserved adaptive signatures and candidate biomarkers of radiation induced oxidative stress. Integrating these data with multi-omics approaches could facilitate the translation of radiation-responsive molecular signatures into robust biomarkers. Regardless of major advances, persistent challenges remain in modelling of chronic injury, translating of large-scale omics into clinics, and protecting non-target tissues. Key focus areas are that of mechanisms of mutation and epigenetic change, systems biology integration of multi-omics stress responses, identification of cross-species conserved biomarkers, and the clinical relevance of omics-based biodosimetry and therapeutic prediction. Continued interdisciplinary research combining advanced molecular profiling, systems analysis, and translational radiobiology will be essential for reducing radiation risks and harnessing potential uses of ionizing radiation.