[The G1-process in human lymphocytes cultured with PHA, and formation of radiation-induced chromosome aberrations]

Experimental evidence for the existence of local spontaneous DNA synthesis in PHA-stimulated human lymphocytes at the G1 phase (G1 process) is presented. This process is associated with the appearance of single-stranded DNA breaks and their subsequent reparation. DNA sequences involved in the G1 process were characterized in terms of their nucleotide composition and association with the nuclear matrix. It was shown that the G1 process occurs in chromosome regions in which radiation-induced exchange-type chromosome aberrations arise. The results of the study are regarded as evidence in favor of a molecular version of the primary contact theory of chromosomal mutagenesis. A possible role of G1 process disturbances in pathogenesis of chromosome instability syndromes in humans is discussed.