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de Menezes AB, Gashchak S, Wood MD, Beresford NA. Relationships between radiation, wildfire and the soil microbial communities in the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 950:175381. [PMID: 39122033 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
There is considerable uncertainty regarding radiation's effects on biodiversity in natural complex ecosystems typically subjected to multiple environmental disturbances and stresses. In this study we characterised the relationships between soil microbial communities and estimated total absorbed dose rates to bacteria, grassy vegetation and trees in the Red Forest region of the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone. Samples were taken from sites of contrasting ecological histories and along burn and no burn areas following a wildfire. Estimated total absorbed dose rates to bacteria reached levels one order of magnitude higher than those known to affect bacteria in laboratory studies. Sites with harsher ecological conditions, notably acidic pH and low soil moisture, tended to have higher radiation contamination levels. No relationship between the effects of fire and radiation were observed. Microbial groups that correlated with high radiation sites were mostly classified to taxa associated with high environmental stress habitats or stress resistance traits. Distance-based linear models and co-occurrence analysis revealed that the effects of radiation on the soil microbiome were minimal. Hence, the association between high radiation sites and specific microbial groups is more likely a result of the harsher ecological conditions in these sites, rather than due to radiation itself. In this study, we provide a starting point for understanding the relationship between soil microbial communities and estimated total absorbed radiation dose rates to different components of an ecosystem highly contaminated with radiation. Our results suggest that soil microbiomes adapted to natural soil conditions are more likely to be resistant to ionising radiation than expected from laboratory studies, which demonstrates the importance of assessing the impact of ionising radiation on soil microbial communities under field conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Barretto de Menezes
- University of Galway, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Ryan Institute, University Road, H91 TK33, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Sergii Gashchak
- Chornobyl Center for Nuclear Safety, Radioactive Waste & Radioecology, International Radioecology Laboratory, Slavutych, Kyiv Region, Ukraine.
| | - Michael D Wood
- School of Science, Engineering & Environment, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, United Kingdom.
| | - Nicholas A Beresford
- School of Science, Engineering & Environment, University of Salford, Manchester M5 4WT, United Kingdom; Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, CEH Lancaster, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Av., Bailrigg, Lancaster LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
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2
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Haque M, Binte Dayem S, Tabassum Tasnim N, Islam MR, Shakil MS. Biological impact of Chornobyl radiation: a review of recent progress. Int J Radiat Biol 2024; 100:1405-1415. [PMID: 39186765 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2024.2391813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
The incident of Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant (CNPP) explosion has pioneered a plethora of studies unfolding various biological effects of radiation stress on several living systems. Determining radiation dose rates at which both acute and chronic biological effects occur in different biological systems will aid in the ex-situ generation of radiation-tolerant organisms. So far, the accumulation of data on different radiation doses from Chernobyl area demonstrating various biological impacts has not been documented altogether vastly. Therefore, this review aims to document the recorded doses in CNPP over the years at which different biological changes have been observed in plants, soil, aquatic organisms, birds, and animals. A total of 72 peer-reviewed papers obtained from PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Research4life were included in this review. A few factors have come under attention in this review. Firstly, plant and soil systems combinedly showed the most published studies after the catastrophe where plants showed a higher frequency of DNA methylation in their genome to resist radiation stress. Secondly, reduced species abundance, chromosomal aberrations, increased sterility, and mortality were mostly observed in the aftermath of Chernobyl catastrophe among plants, soil, aquatic organisms, birds, and small mammals. Furthermore, major scares of data after 2018 were prominently observed. Very few studies on radiation dose levels after 2018 are available. Hence, a major research area has emerged for radiation biologists to study present radiation levels and any genetic changes in the recent generation of the original victim species. This will help provide a standard dataset that can act as a reference resource for radiation biologists and future research on the impact of both acute and chronic radiation on the different biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munima Haque
- Biotechnology Program, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Shabnoor Binte Dayem
- Biotechnology Program, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Nazifa Tabassum Tasnim
- Microbiology Program, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Rashadul Islam
- Physics Program, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Salman Shakil
- Microbiology Program, Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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3
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Ksas B, Chiarenza S, Dubourg N, Ménard V, Gilbin R, Havaux M. Plant acclimation to ionising radiation requires activation of a detoxification pathway against carbonyl-containing lipid oxidation products. PLANT, CELL & ENVIRONMENT 2024. [PMID: 38831671 DOI: 10.1111/pce.14994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Ionising γ radiation produces reactive oxygen species by water radiolysis, providing an interesting model approach for studying oxidative stress in plants. Three-week old plants of Arabidopsis thaliana were exposed to a low dose rate (25 mGy h-1) of γ radiation for up to 21 days. This treatment had no effect on plant growth and morphology, but it induced chronic oxidation of lipids which was associated with an accumulation of reactive carbonyl species (RCS). However, contrary to lipid peroxidation, lipid RCS accumulation was transient only, being maximal after 1 day of irradiation and decreasing back to the initial level during the subsequent days of continuous irradiation. This indicates the induction of a carbonyl-metabolising process during chronic ionising radiation. Accordingly, the γ-radiation treatment induced the expression of xenobiotic detoxification-related genes (AER, SDR1, SDR3, ALDH4, and ANAC102). The transcriptomic response of some of those genes (AER, SDR1, and ANAC102) was deregulated in the tga256 mutant affected in three TGAII transcription factors, leading to enhanced and/or prolonged accumulation of RCS and to a marked inhibition of plant growth during irradiation compared to the wild type. These results show that Arabidopsis is able to acclimate to chronic oxidative stress and that this phenomenon requires activation of a carbonyl detoxification mechanism controlled by TGAII. This acclimation did not occur when plants were exposed to an acute γ radiation stress (100 Gy) which led to persistent accumulation of RCS and marked inhibition of plant growth. This study shows the role of secondary products of lipid peroxidation in the detrimental effects of reactive oxygen species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Ksas
- Aix Marseille Université, UMR7265 CNRS, CEA, Institut de Biosciences et de Biotechnologies d'Aix-Marseille (BIAM), CEA/Cadarache, Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France
| | - Serge Chiarenza
- Aix Marseille Université, UMR7265 CNRS, CEA, Institut de Biosciences et de Biotechnologies d'Aix-Marseille (BIAM), CEA/Cadarache, Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France
| | - Nicolas Dubourg
- IRSN, Service de Radioprotection des Populations et de l'Environnement (SERPEN), MICADOLab, CEA/Cadarache, Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France
| | - Véronique Ménard
- Université Paris Cité, Inserm, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, CEA, Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Rodophe Gilbin
- IRSN, Service de Radioprotection des Populations et de l'Environnement (SERPEN), MICADOLab, CEA/Cadarache, Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France
| | - Michel Havaux
- Aix Marseille Université, UMR7265 CNRS, CEA, Institut de Biosciences et de Biotechnologies d'Aix-Marseille (BIAM), CEA/Cadarache, Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France
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Mishra S, Duarte GT, Horemans N, Ruytinx J, Gudkov D, Danchenko M. Complexity of responses to ionizing radiation in plants, and the impact on interacting biotic factors. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171567. [PMID: 38460702 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
In nature, plants are simultaneously exposed to different abiotic (e.g., heat, drought, and salinity) and biotic (e.g., bacteria, fungi, and insects) stresses. Climate change and anthropogenic pressure are expected to intensify the frequency of stress factors. Although plants are well equipped with unique and common defense systems protecting against stressors, they may compromise their growth and development for survival in such challenging environments. Ionizing radiation is a peculiar stress factor capable of causing clustered damage. Radionuclides are both naturally present on the planet and produced by human activities. Natural and artificial radioactivity affects plants on molecular, biochemical, cellular, physiological, populational, and transgenerational levels. Moreover, the fitness of pests, pathogens, and symbionts is concomitantly challenged in radiologically contaminated areas. Plant responses to artificial acute ionizing radiation exposure and laboratory-simulated or field chronic exposure are often discordant. Acute or chronic ionizing radiation exposure may occasionally prime the defense system of plants to better tolerate the biotic stress or could often exhaust their metabolic reserves, making plants more susceptible to pests and pathogens. Currently, these alternatives are only marginally explored. Our review summarizes the available literature on the responses of host plants, biotic factors, and their interaction to ionizing radiation exposure. Such systematic analysis contributes to improved risk assessment in radiologically contaminated areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhi Mishra
- Institute of Plant Genetics and Biotechnology, Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 950 07 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Gustavo Turqueto Duarte
- Unit for Biosphere Impact Studies, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK CEN, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - Nele Horemans
- Unit for Biosphere Impact Studies, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK CEN, 2400 Mol, Belgium; Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Joske Ruytinx
- Department of Bio-engineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dmitri Gudkov
- Institute of Hydrobiology, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 04210 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Maksym Danchenko
- Institute of Plant Genetics and Biotechnology, Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 950 07 Nitra, Slovakia.
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Sakauchi K, Otaki JM. Soil Microbes and Plant-Associated Microbes in Response to Radioactive Pollution May Indirectly Affect Plants and Insect Herbivores: Evidence for Indirect Field Effects from Chernobyl and Fukushima. Microorganisms 2024; 12:364. [PMID: 38399767 PMCID: PMC10892324 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12020364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The biological impacts of the nuclear accidents in Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011) on wildlife have been studied in many organisms over decades, mainly from dosimetric perspectives based on laboratory experiments using indicator species. However, ecological perspectives are required to understand indirect field-specific effects among species, which are difficult to evaluate under dosimetric laboratory conditions. From the viewpoint that microbes play a fundamental role in ecosystem function as decomposers and symbionts for plants, we reviewed studies on microbes inhabiting soil and plants in Chernobyl and Fukushima in an attempt to find supporting evidence for indirect field-specific effects on plants and insect herbivores. Compositional changes in soil microbes associated with decreases in abundance and species diversity were reported, especially in heavily contaminated areas of both Chernobyl and Fukushima, which may accompany explosions of radioresistant species. In Chernobyl, the population size of soil microbes remained low for at least 20 years after the accident, and the abundance of plant-associated microbes, which are related to the growth and defense systems of plants, possibly decreased. These reported changes in microbes likely affect soil conditions and alter plant physiology. These microbe-mediated effects may then indirectly affect insect herbivores through food-mass-mediated, pollen-mediated, and metabolite-mediated interactions. Metabolite-mediated interactions may be a major pathway for ecological impacts at low pollution levels and could explain the decreases in insect herbivores in Fukushima. The present review highlights the importance of the indirect field effects of long-term low-dose radiation exposure under complex field circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joji M. Otaki
- The BCPH Unit of Molecular Physiology, Department of Chemistry, Biology and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, University of the Ryukyus, Nishihara 903-0213, Okinawa, Japan;
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Ali S, Baloch SB, Bernas J, Konvalina P, Onyebuchi EF, Naveed M, Ali H, Jamali ZH, Nezhad MTK, Mustafa A. Phytotoxicity of radionuclides: A review of sources, impacts and remediation strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 240:117479. [PMID: 37884073 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Various anthropogenic activities and natural sources contribute to the presence of radioactive materials in the environment, posing a serious threat to phytotoxicity. Contamination of soil and water by radioactive isotopes degrades the environmental quality and biodiversity. They persist in soils for a considerable amount of time and disturb the fauna and flora of any affected area. Hence, their removal from the contaminated medium is inevitable to prevent their entry into the food chain and the organisms at higher levels of the food chain. Physicochemical methods for radioactive element remediation are effective; however, they are not eco-friendly, can be expensive and impractical for large-scale remediation. Contrastingly, different bioremediation approaches, such as phytoremediation using appropriate plant species for removing the radionuclides from the polluted sites, and microbe-based remediation, represent promising alternatives for cleanup. In this review, sources of radionuclides in soil as well as their hazardous impacts on plants are discussed. Moreover, various conventional physicochemical approaches used for remediation discussed in detail. Similarly, the effectiveness and superiority of various bioremediation approaches, such as phytoremediation and microbe-based remediation, over traditional approaches have been explained in detail. In the end, future perspectives related to enhancing the efficiency of the phytoremediation process have been elaborated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahzaib Ali
- Department of Agroecosystems, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Branišovská 1645/31A, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Sadia Babar Baloch
- Department of Agroecosystems, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Branišovská 1645/31A, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jaroslav Bernas
- Department of Agroecosystems, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Branišovská 1645/31A, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Petr Konvalina
- Department of Agroecosystems, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Branišovská 1645/31A, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Eze Festus Onyebuchi
- Department of Agroecosystems, Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Branišovská 1645/31A, 37005, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Muhammad Naveed
- Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan
| | - Hassan Ali
- Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, 38040, Pakistan
| | - Zameer Hussain Jamali
- College of Environmental Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, 611130, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mohammad Tahsin Karimi Nezhad
- Department of Forest Ecology, The Silva Tarouca Research Institute for Landscape and Ornamental 13 Gardening, Lidicka, 25/27, Brno, 60200, Czech Republic
| | - Adnan Mustafa
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences Guangzhou, 510650, China.
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Nybakken L, Lee Y, Brede DA, Mageroy MH, Lind OC, Salbu B, Kashparov V, Olsen JE. Long term effects of ionising radiation in the Chernobyl Exclusion zone on DNA integrity and chemical defence systems of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166844. [PMID: 37689207 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
The Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant (ChNPP) accident in 1986 resulted in extremely high levels of acute ionising radiation, that killed or damaged Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) trees in the surrounding areas. Dead trees were cleared and buried, and new plantations established a few years later. Today, more than three decades later, gamma and beta-radiation near the ChNPP is still elevated compared with ambient levels but have decreased by a factor of 300 and 100, respectively. In the present work, Scots pine-trees growing at High (220 μGy h-1), Medium (11 μGy h-1), and Low (0.2 μGy h-1) total (internal + external) dose rates of chronically elevated ionising radiation in the Chernobyl Exclusion zone were investigated with respect to possible damage to DNA, cells and organelles, as well as potentially increased levels of phenolic and terpenoid antioxidants. Scots pine from the High and Medium radiation sites had elevated levels of DNA damage in shoot tips and needles as shown by the COMET assay, as well as increased numbers of resin ducts and subcellular abnormalities in needles. Needles from the High radiation site showed elevated levels of monoterpenes and condensed tannins compared with those from the other sites. In conclusion, more than three decades after the ChNPP accident substantial DNA damage and (sub)cellular effects, but also mobilisation of stress-protective substances possessing antioxidant activity were observed in Scots pine trees growing at elevated levels of ionising radiation. This demonstrates that the radiation levels in the Red Forest still significantly impact the plant community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Nybakken
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway; Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1432 Ås, Norway.
| | - YeonKyeong Lee
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1432 Ås, Norway; Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway; Korea University Graduate School, Department of Plant Biotechnology, 145, Anam-ro, Seongbuk-ku, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dag A Brede
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway; Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Melissa H Mageroy
- Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research, P.O. Box 115, NO-1431 Ås, Norway
| | - Ole Christian Lind
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway; Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Brit Salbu
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway; Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Valery Kashparov
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1432 Ås, Norway; Ukrainian Institute of Agricultural Radiology (UIAR) of National University of Life and Environment Sciences of Ukraine, Kiev, Ukraine
| | - Jorunn E Olsen
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, N-1432 Ås, Norway; Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, NO-1432 Ås, Norway
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8
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Makarenko ES, Shesterikova EM, Kazakova EA, Bitarishvili SV, Volkova PY, Blinova YA, Lychenkova MA. White clover from the exclusion zone of the Chernobyl NPP: Morphological, biochemical, and genetic characteristics. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2023; 262:107152. [PMID: 36933462 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2023.107152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
A comprehensive study of the biological effects of chronic radiation exposure (8 μGy/h) in populations of white clover (Trifolium repens L.) from the Chernobyl exclusion zone was carried out. White clover is one of the most important pasture legumes, having many agricultural applications. Studies at two reference and three radioactively contaminated plots showed no stable morphological effects in white clover at this level of radiation exposure. Increased activities of catalase and peroxidases were found in some impacted plots. Auxin concentration was enhanced in the radioactively contaminated plots. Genes involved in the maintenance of water homeostasis and photosynthetic processes (TIP1 and CAB1) were upregulated at radioactively contaminated plots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina S Makarenko
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe shosse, 109 km, 249032, Obninsk, Russia.
| | - Ekaterina M Shesterikova
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe shosse, 109 km, 249032, Obninsk, Russia
| | - Elizaveta A Kazakova
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe shosse, 109 km, 249032, Obninsk, Russia
| | - Sofia V Bitarishvili
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe shosse, 109 km, 249032, Obninsk, Russia
| | | | - Yana A Blinova
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe shosse, 109 km, 249032, Obninsk, Russia
| | - Maria A Lychenkova
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe shosse, 109 km, 249032, Obninsk, Russia
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9
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Bondarenko V, Geras'kin S, Bondarenko E, Yoschenko V, Bondarenko S, Khanova A, Garbaruk D, Nanba K. Comparative analysis of epigenetic variability in two pine species exposed to chronic radiation in the chernobyl and fukushima affected zones. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 330:121799. [PMID: 37169241 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Comparative analysis of epigenetic variability in two pine species affected as a result of the Chernobyl and Fukushima accidents is presented. The absorbed dose rate within the affected Chernobyl sites varies over a wider range (1.5-24.6 μGy/h) than within the Fukushima sites (3.5-6.5 μGy/h). It was shown that chronic irradiation can change the level of whole genome methylation in pine populations, but in different ways. The genomes of Japanese red pines are hypomethylated, and the degree of methylation and hydroxymethylation decreases with an increase in the level of radiation exposure. In contrast, the percentages of genome methylation and hydroxymethylation in Scots pine populations exceed the reference levels. The observed discrepancy in the patterns of genome-wide DNA methylation can be attributed partly to the design of the study (differences in the climate, radiation dose, age and species of the pines) which could affect the results. In the frame of IRAP analysis, a larger number of different bands was observed in the Chernobyl populations compared to the Japanese populations. Both the Japanese and Chernobyl populations are characterized by significant genetic variability. However, the main part of this variability is observed within populations. The dendrograms, based on presence/absence of IRAP fragments and Nei's genetic distances, revealed subdivisions of the Chernobyl and Japanese populations according to the level of radioactive contamination. Analysis of the results presented will improve our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the responses of pine trees to chronic radiation exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Bondarenko
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe Shosse, 109 Km, Obninsk, Kaluga Region, 249032, Russian Federation
| | - Stanislav Geras'kin
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe Shosse, 109 Km, Obninsk, Kaluga Region, 249032, Russian Federation.
| | - Ekaterina Bondarenko
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe Shosse, 109 Km, Obninsk, Kaluga Region, 249032, Russian Federation
| | - Vasyl Yoschenko
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity of Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima, 960-1296, Japan
| | - Sergey Bondarenko
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe Shosse, 109 Km, Obninsk, Kaluga Region, 249032, Russian Federation
| | - Anastasiya Khanova
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Kievskoe Shosse, 109 Km, Obninsk, Kaluga Region, 249032, Russian Federation
| | - Dmitriy Garbaruk
- Polesye State Radiation-Ecological Reserve, 247618, Tereshkovoy Str. 7, Khoyniki, Belarus
| | - Kenji Nanba
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity of Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima, 960-1296, Japan
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10
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Polivanova OB, Tiurin KN, Sivolapova AB, Goryunova SV, Zhevora SV. Influence of Increased Radiation Background on Antioxidative Responses of Helianthus tuberosus L. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:antiox12040956. [PMID: 37107330 PMCID: PMC10135547 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12040956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As a result of the accident at the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, significant territories were exposed to ionizing radiation. Some isotopes, such as 137Cs, are capable of making a significant impact on living organisms in the long-term perspective. The generation of reactive oxygen species is one mechanism by which ionizing radiation affects living organisms, initiating mechanisms of antioxidant protection. In this article, the effect of increased ionizing radiation on the content of non-enzymatic antioxidants and the activity of antioxidant defense enzymes of Helianthus tuberosum L. was studied. This plant is widely distributed in Europe and characterized by high adaptability to abiotic factors. We found that the activity of antioxidant defense enzymes, such as catalase and peroxidase, weakly correlated with radiation exposure. The activity of ascorbate peroxidase, on the contrary, is strongly positively correlated with radiation exposure. The samples growing on the territory with constant low exposure to ionizing radiation were also characterized by an increased concentration of ascorbic acid and water-soluble phenolic compounds compared to the controls. This study may be useful for understanding the mechanisms underlying the adaptive reactions of plants under prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana B Polivanova
- Laboratory of Cell and Genomic Technologies, Russian Potato Research Center, 140051 Kraskovo, Russia
- Department of Biotechnology, Russian State Agrarian University, Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, Timiryazevskaya Str., 49, 127550 Moscow, Russia
| | - Kirill N Tiurin
- Laboratory of Systemic Genomics and Plant Mobilomics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, Institutsky Lane, 9, 141701 Dolgoprudny, Russia
- Laboratory of Marker and Genomic Plant Breeding, All-Russia Research Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Timiryazevskaya Str., 42, 127550 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anastasia B Sivolapova
- Laboratory of Cell and Genomic Technologies, Russian Potato Research Center, 140051 Kraskovo, Russia
| | - Svetlana V Goryunova
- Laboratory of Cell and Genomic Technologies, Russian Potato Research Center, 140051 Kraskovo, Russia
| | - Sergey V Zhevora
- Laboratory of Cell and Genomic Technologies, Russian Potato Research Center, 140051 Kraskovo, Russia
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11
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Duarte GT, Volkova PY, Fiengo Perez F, Horemans N. Chronic Ionizing Radiation of Plants: An Evolutionary Factor from Direct Damage to Non-Target Effects. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:1178. [PMID: 36904038 PMCID: PMC10005729 DOI: 10.3390/plants12051178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In present times, the levels of ionizing radiation (IR) on the surface of Earth are relatively low, posing no high challenges for the survival of contemporary life forms. IR derives from natural sources and naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM), the nuclear industry, medical applications, and as a result of radiation disasters or nuclear tests. In the current review, we discuss modern sources of radioactivity, its direct and indirect effects on different plant species, and the scope of the radiation protection of plants. We present an overview of the molecular mechanisms of radiation responses in plants, which leads to a tempting conjecture of the evolutionary role of IR as a limiting factor for land colonization and plant diversification rates. The hypothesis-driven analysis of available plant genomic data suggests an overall DNA repair gene families' depletion in land plants compared to ancestral groups, which overlaps with a decrease in levels of radiation exposure on the surface of Earth millions of years ago. The potential contribution of chronic IR as an evolutionary factor in combination with other environmental factors is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nele Horemans
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre—SCK CEN, 2400 Mol, Belgium
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Agoralaan Building D, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium
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12
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Shesterikova EM, Bondarenko VS, Volkova PY. Differential gene expression in chronically irradiated herbaceous species from the Chernobyl exclusion zone. Int J Radiat Biol 2023; 99:229-237. [PMID: 35704451 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2022.2087927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Transcriptional activity of genes related to ionizing radiation responses in chronically irradiated plant populations at radioactively contaminated territories can be a cost-effective and precise approach for stress response evaluation. However, there are limits to studying non-model plants in field conditions. The work studies the transcriptional activity of candidate genes of adaptation to chronic radiation exposure in plant populations from radioactively contaminated territories of the Chernobyl. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this work, we studied plant species with different sensitivity to acute irradiation: Trifolium repens L., Taraxacum officinale Wigg., and Dactylis glomerata L., sampled in the Chernobyl exclusion zone. The differential expression of several candidate genes of adaptation to chronic radiation exposure in the leaves of these species was analyzed, including homologs of Arabidopsis thaliana genes SLAC1, APX1, GPX2, CAB1, NTRB, PP2-B11, RBOH-F, HY5, SnRK2.4, PDS1, CIPK20, SIP1, PIP1, TIP1. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS All studied species were characterized by upregulation of the CAB1 homolog, encoding chlorophyll a/b binding protein, at radioactively contaminated plots. An increase in the expression of genes associated with water and hydrogen peroxide transport, intensity of photosynthesis, and stress responses (homolog of aquaporin TIP1 for T. repens; homologs of aquaporin PIP1 and transcription factor HY5 for D. glomerata; homolog of CBL-interacting serine/threonine protein kinase CIPK20 for T. officinale) was revealed. The methodological approach for studying gene expression in non-model plant species is described, which may allow large-scale screening studies of candidate genes in various plant species abundant in radioactively contaminated areas.
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13
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Makarenko ES, Lychenkova MA, Geras’kin SA, Perevolotsky AN, Perevolotskaya TV. Morphometric Indicators of Pine Needles 35 Years after the Chernobyl Accident. BIOL BULL+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359022120111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
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14
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Shimalina NS, Pozolotina VN, Orekhova NA. Stress memory in two generations of Plantago major from radioactive and chemical contaminated areas after the cessation of exposure. Int J Radiat Biol 2022:1-11. [PMID: 36353750 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2023.2146232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
HYPOTHESIS The differences in viability, root length, and pro/antioxidant features of Plantago major seedlings identified in seed progeny formed in areas of radioactive and chemical contamination can persist in subsequent generations after the elimination of the stress. MATERIALS AND METHODS The seed mixtures of F1 generation were collected from P. major natural populations (P plants) growing for a long time in the East Ural Radioactive Trace, the Karabash Copper Smelter zone, and background area. The seeds of F2 generation were obtained from F1 generation plants grown on experimental plots with 'clean' agricultural background; F3 generation was grown from F2 generation on the same plots. The viability of seed progeny was estimated by survival rate and root length. Pro/antioxidant features were determined spectrophotometrically by malondialdehyde content, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities, and total content of low molecular weight antioxidants in seedlings. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS The hypothesis about the persistence of effects from chronic exposure to ionizing radiation and chemical contamination in the generations' sequence of P. major after the removal of stress was confirmed only partially. The data obtained indicated that changes in the prooxidant and antioxidant features of plants in response to low doses of ionizing radiation can persist for at least in two generations after the stress removal. In the case of long-term exposure to chemical contaminants, we observed the persistence of the effect in a succession of generations only on the morphological indicator of root length.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezhda S. Shimalina
- Laboratory of Population Radiobiology, Institute of Plant and Animal Ecology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Marta str. 202, Yekaterinburg 620144, Russia
| | - Vera N. Pozolotina
- Laboratory of Population Radiobiology, Institute of Plant and Animal Ecology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Marta str. 202, Yekaterinburg 620144, Russia
| | - Natalya A. Orekhova
- Laboratory of Population Radiobiology, Institute of Plant and Animal Ecology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Marta str. 202, Yekaterinburg 620144, Russia
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15
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Grebowski J, Kazmierska-Grebowska P, Cichon N, Konarska A, Wolszczak M, Litwinienko G. Fullerenol C 60(OH) 36 Protects the Antioxidant Enzymes in Human Erythrocytes against Oxidative Damage Induced by High-Energy Electrons. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810939. [PMID: 36142851 PMCID: PMC9502585 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ionizing radiation (IR) can pass through the human body easily, potentially causing severe damage to all biocomponents, which is associated with increasing oxidative stress. IR is employed in radiotherapy; however, in order to increase safety, it is necessary to minimize side effects through the use of radioprotectors. Water-soluble derivatives of fullerene exhibit antiradical and antioxidant properties, and these compounds are regarded as potential candidates for radioprotectors. We examined the ability of fullerenol C60(OH)36 to protect human erythrocytes, including the protection of the erythrocytal antioxidant system against high-energy electrons. Human erythrocytes irradiated with high-energy [6 MeV] electrons were treated with C60(OH)36 (150 µg/mL), incubated and haemolyzed. The radioprotective properties of fullerenol were determined by examining the antioxidant enzymes activity in the hemolysate, the concentration of -SH groups, as well as by determining erythrocyte microviscosity. The irradiation of erythrocytes (650 and 1300 Gy) reduces the number of thiol groups; however, an attenuation of this harmful effect is observed (p < 0.05) in the presence of C60(OH)36. Although no significant effect of fullerenol was recorded on catalase activity, which was preserved in both control and test samples, a more active protection of other enzymes was evident. An irradiation-induced decrease in the activity of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase became an increase in the activity of those two enzymes in samples irradiated in the presence of C60(OH)36 (p < 0.05 and p < 0.05, respectively). The fourth studied enzyme, glutathione transferase, decreased (p < 0.05) its activity in the irradiated hemolysate treated with C60(OH)36, thus, indicating a lower level of ROS in the system. However, the interaction of fullerenol with the active centre of the enzyme cannot be excluded. We also noticed that radiation caused a dose-dependent decrease in the erythrocyte microviscosity, and the presence of C60(OH)36 reduced this effect (p < 0.05). Overall, we point to the radioprotective effect of C60(OH)36 manifested as the protection of the antioxidant enzymes of human erythrocytes against IR-induced damage, which has not been the subject of intense research so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek Grebowski
- Department of Molecular Biophysics, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
- The Military Medical Training Center, 6-Sierpnia 92, 90-646 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Paulina Kazmierska-Grebowska
- Department of Neurobiology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
| | - Natalia Cichon
- Biohazard Prevention Centre, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland
| | - Anna Konarska
- Institute of Applied Radiation Chemistry, Technical University of Lodz, Wroblewskiego 15, 93-590 Lodz, Poland
| | - Marian Wolszczak
- Institute of Applied Radiation Chemistry, Technical University of Lodz, Wroblewskiego 15, 93-590 Lodz, Poland
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16
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Hirao AS, Watanabe Y, Hasegawa Y, Takagi T, Ueno S, Kaneko S. Mutational effects of chronic gamma radiation throughout the life cycle of Arabidopsis thaliana: Insight into radiosensitivity in the reproductive stage. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 838:156224. [PMID: 35644386 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Organisms living on Earth have always been exposed to natural sources of ionizing radiation, but following recent nuclear disasters, these background levels have often increased regionally due to the addition of man-made sources of radiation. To assess the mutational effects of ubiquitously present radiation on plants, we performed a whole-genome resequencing analysis of mutations induced by chronic irradiation throughout the life cycle of Arabidopsis thaliana grown under controlled conditions. We obtained resequencing data from 36 second generation post-mutagenesis (M2) progeny derived from 12 first generation (M1) lines grown under gamma-irradiation conditions, ranging from 0.0 to 2.0 Gray per day (Gy/day), to identify de novo mutations, including single base substitutions (SBSs) and small insertions/deletions (INDELs). The relationship between de novo mutation frequency and radiation dose rate from 0.0 to 2.0 Gy/day was assessed by statistical modeling. The increase in de novo mutations in response to irradiation dose fit the negative binomial model, which accounted for the high variability of mutation frequency observed. Among the different types of mutations, SBSs were more prevalent than INDELs, and deletions were more frequent than insertions. Furthermore, we observed that the mutational effects of chronic radiation were greater during the reproductive stage. These results will provide valuable insights into practical strategies for analyzing mutational effects in wild plants growing in environments with various mutagens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira S Hirao
- Faculty of Symbiotic Systems Science, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1296, Japan; National Research Institute of Fisheries Science, Japan Fisheries Research and Education Agency, 2-12-4 Fukuura, Kanazawa, Yokohama, Kanagawa 236-8648, Japan
| | - Yoshito Watanabe
- Fukushima Project Headquarters, National Institute of Radiological Sciences, National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan
| | - Yoichi Hasegawa
- Department of Forest Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology, Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, Forest Research and Management Organization, 1 Matsunosato, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Toshihito Takagi
- Graduate School of Symbiotic Systems Science and Technology, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Saneyoshi Ueno
- Department of Forest Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology, Forestry and Forest Products Research Institute, Forest Research and Management Organization, 1 Matsunosato, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Shingo Kaneko
- Faculty of Symbiotic Systems Science, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima, Fukushima 960-1296, Japan; Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, 1 Kanayagawa, Fukushima, Fukushima, Japan.
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17
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Anik MI, Mahmud N, Masud AA, Khan MI, Islam MN, Uddin S, Hossain MK. Role of Reactive Oxygen Species in Aging and Age-Related Diseases: A Review. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2022; 5:4028-4054. [PMID: 36043942 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.2c00411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Research on the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the aging process has advanced significantly over the last two decades. In light of recent findings, ROS takes part in the aging process of cells along with contributing to various physiological signaling pathways. Antioxidants being cells' natural defense mechanism against ROS-mediated alteration, play an imperative role to maintain intracellular ROS homeostasis. Although the complete understanding of the ROS regulated aging process is yet to be fully comprehended, current insights into various sources of cellular ROS and their correlation with the aging process and age-related diseases are portrayed in this review. In addition, results on the effect of antioxidants on ROS homeostasis and the aging process as well as their advances in clinical trials are also discussed in detail. The future perspective in ROS-antioxidant dynamics on antiaging research is also marshaled to provide future directions for ROS-mediated antiaging research fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muzahidul I Anik
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island 02881, United States
| | - Niaz Mahmud
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Military Institute of Science and Technology, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Abdullah Al Masud
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md Ishak Khan
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Md Nurul Islam
- Department of Bioregulatory Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan
| | - Shihab Uddin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
- Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - M Khalid Hossain
- Institute of Electronics, Atomic Energy Research Establishment, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka 1349, Bangladesh
- Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Engineering Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 816-8580, Japan
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18
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Jopčík M, Libantová J, Lancíková V. Effect of chronic radiation on the flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) genome grown for six consecutive generations in the radioactive Chernobyl area. PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM 2022; 174:e13745. [PMID: 35780328 DOI: 10.1111/ppl.13745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The growth of plants under chronic radiation stress in the Chernobyl area may cause changes in the genome of plants. To assess the extent of genetic and epigenetic changes in nuclear DNA, seeds of the annual crop flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) of the Kyivskyi variety, sown 21 years after the accident and grown for six generations in radioactive (RAD) and remediated (REM) fields were analysed. Flaxseed used for sowing first generation, which served as a reference (REF), was also analysed. The AFLP (Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism) revealed a higher number of specific EcoRI-MseI loci (3.4-fold) in pooled flaxseed samples harvested from the RAD field compared with the REM field, indicating a link between the mutation process in the flax genome and the ongoing adaptation process. MSAP (Methylation-Sensitive Amplified Polymorphism) detecting EcoRI-MspI and EcoRI-HpaII loci in flax nuclear DNA genome showed no significant differences in methylation level, reaching about 33% in each of the groups studied. On the other hand, significant changes in the DNA methylation pattern of flaxseed samples harvested from the RAD field compared with controls were detected. Pairwise FST comparison revealed within both, EcoRI-MspI and transformed methylation-Sensitive data sets more than a 3-fold increase of genetic divergence in the RAD field compared with both controls. These results indicate that the nuclear genome of flax exposed to chronic radiation for six generations has more mutations and uses DNA methylation as one of the adaptation mechanisms for sustainability under adverse conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Jopčík
- Institute of Plant Genetics and Biotechnology, Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Jana Libantová
- Institute of Plant Genetics and Biotechnology, Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Lancíková
- Institute of Plant Genetics and Biotechnology, Plant Science and Biodiversity Centre, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Nitra, Slovakia
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19
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Geras’kin SA, Fesenko SV, Volkova PY, Isamov NN. What Have We Learned about the Biological Effects of Radiation from the 35 Years of Analysis of the Consequences of the Chernobyl NPP Accident? BIOL BULL+ 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062359021120050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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20
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Ludovici GM, Chierici A, de Souza SO, d’Errico F, Iannotti A, Malizia A. Effects of Ionizing Radiation on Flora Ten Years after the Fukushima Dai-ichi Disaster. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:222. [PMID: 35050110 PMCID: PMC8781571 DOI: 10.3390/plants11020222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work is to analyze the effects of ionizing radiation and radionuclides (like 137Cs) in several higher plants located around the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FNPP), evaluating both their adaptive processes and evolution. After the FNPP accident in March 2011 much attention was focused to the biological consequences of ionizing radiation and radionuclides released in the area surrounding the nuclear plant. This unexpected mishap led to the emission of radionuclides in aerosol and gaseous forms from the power plant, which contaminated a large area, including wild forest, cities, farmlands, mountains, and the sea, causing serious problems. Large quantities of 131I, 137Cs, and 134Cs were detected in the fallout. People were evacuated but the flora continued to be affected by the radiation exposure and by the radioactive dusts' fallout. The response of biota to FNPP irradiation was a complex interaction among radiation dose, dose rate, temporal and spatial variation, varying radiation sensitivities of the different plants' species, and indirect effects from other events. The repeated ionizing radiations, acute or chronic, guarantee an adaptation of the plant species, demonstrating a radio-resistance. Consequently, ionizing radiation affects the genetic structure, especially during chronic irradiation, reducing genetic variability. This reduction is associated with the different susceptibility of plant species to chronic stress. This would confirm the adaptive theory associated with this phenomenon. The effects that ionizing radiation has on different life forms are examined in this review using the FNPP disaster as a case study focusing the attention ten years after the accident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gian Marco Ludovici
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (G.M.L.); (A.I.)
| | - Andrea Chierici
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Largo Lucio Lazzarino, 56122 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.); (F.d.)
| | - Susana Oliveira de Souza
- Physics Department, Federal University of Sergipe, UFS, Av. Marechal Rondon, s/n Jardim Rosa Elze, São Cristóvão SE 49100-000, Brazil;
| | - Francesco d’Errico
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Largo Lucio Lazzarino, 56122 Pisa, Italy; (A.C.); (F.d.)
| | - Alba Iannotti
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via del Politecnico 1, 00133 Rome, Italy; (G.M.L.); (A.I.)
| | - Andrea Malizia
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via di Motpellier 1, 00133 Rome, Italy
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21
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Sun L, Inaba Y, Sogo Y, Ito A, Bekal M, Chida K, Moritake T. Total body irradiation causes a chronic decrease in antioxidant levels. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6716. [PMID: 33762608 PMCID: PMC7990969 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86187-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ionizing radiation exposure may not only cause acute radiation syndrome, but also an increased risk of late effects. It has been hypothesized that induction of chronic oxidative stress mediates the late effects of ionizing radiation. However, only a few reports have analyzed changes in long-term antioxidant capacity after irradiation in vivo. Our previous study demonstrated changes in whole-blood antioxidant capacity and red blood cell (RBC) glutathione levels within 50 days after total body irradiation (TBI). In this study, seven-week-old, male, C57BL/6J mice exposed to total body irradiation by X-ray and changes in whole-blood antioxidant capacity and RBC glutathione levels at ≥ 100 days after TBI were investigated. Whole-blood antioxidant capacity was chronically decreased in the 5-Gy group. The RBC reduced glutathione (GSH) level and the GSH/oxidative glutathione (GSSG) ratio were chronically decreased after ≥ 1 Gy of TBI. Interestingly, the complete blood counts (CBC) changed less with 1-Gy exposure, suggesting that GSH and the GSH/GSSG ratio were more sensitive radiation exposure markers than whole-blood antioxidant capacity and CBC counts. It has been reported that GSH depletion is one of the triggers leading to cataracts, hypertension, and atherosclerosis, and these diseases are also known as radiation-induced late effects. The present findings further suggest that chronic antioxidant reduction may contribute to the pathogenesis of late radiation effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lue Sun
- Health and Medical Research Institute, Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Central 6, 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8566, Japan.
| | - Yohei Inaba
- Course of Radiological Technology, Health Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo, Aoba, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan.,Department of Radiation Disaster Medicine, International Research Institute of Disaster Science, Tohoku University, Aramaki Aza-Aoba 468-1, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-0845, Japan
| | - Yu Sogo
- Health and Medical Research Institute, Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Central 6, 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8566, Japan
| | - Atsuo Ito
- Health and Medical Research Institute, Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), Central 6, 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8566, Japan
| | - Mahesh Bekal
- Department of Radiobiology and Hygiene Management, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, 1-1 Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, 807-8555, Japan
| | - Koichi Chida
- Course of Radiological Technology, Health Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo, Aoba, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8575, Japan.,Department of Radiation Disaster Medicine, International Research Institute of Disaster Science, Tohoku University, Aramaki Aza-Aoba 468-1, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-0845, Japan
| | - Takashi Moritake
- Department of Radiobiology and Hygiene Management, Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan, 1-1 Iseigaoka, Yahatanishi-ku, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, 807-8555, Japan.
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22
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Stephan OOH. Implications of ionizing radiation on pollen performance in comparison with diverse models of polar cell growth. PLANT, CELL & ENVIRONMENT 2021; 44:665-691. [PMID: 33124689 DOI: 10.1111/pce.13929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Research concerning the effects of ionizing radiation (IR) on plant systems is essential for numerous aspects of human society, as for instance, in terms of agriculture and plant breeding, but additionally for elucidating consequences of radioactive contamination of the ecosphere. This comprehensive survey analyses effects of x- and γ-irradiation on male gametophytes comprising primarily in vitro but also in vivo data of diverse plant species. The IR-dose range for pollen performance was compiled and 50% inhibition doses (ID50 ) for germination and tube growth were comparatively related to physiological characteristics of the microgametophyte. Factors influencing IR-susceptibility of mature pollen and polarized tube growth were evaluated, such as dose-rate, environmental conditions, or species-related variations. In addition, all available reports suggesting bio-positive IR-effects particularly on pollen performance were examined. Most importantly, for the first time influences of IR specifically on diverse phylogenetic models of polar cell growth were comparatively analysed, and thus demonstrated that the gametophytic system of pollen is extremely resistant to IR, more than plant sporophytes and especially much more than comparable animal cells. Beyond that, this study develops hypotheses regarding a molecular basis for the extreme IR-resistance of the plant microgametophyte and highlights its unique rank among organismal systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Octavian O H Stephan
- Department of Biology, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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23
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Laanen P, Saenen E, Mysara M, Van de Walle J, Van Hees M, Nauts R, Van Nieuwerburgh F, Voorspoels S, Jacobs G, Cuypers A, Horemans N. Changes in DNA Methylation in Arabidopsis thaliana Plants Exposed Over Multiple Generations to Gamma Radiation. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:611783. [PMID: 33868326 PMCID: PMC8044457 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.611783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have found indications that exposure to ionising radiation (IR) results in DNA methylation changes in plants. However, this phenomenon is yet to be studied across multiple generations. Furthermore, the exact role of these changes in the IR-induced plant response is still far from understood. Here, we study the effect of gamma radiation on DNA methylation and its effect across generations in young Arabidopsis plants. A multigenerational set-up was used in which three generations (Parent, generation 1, and generation 2) of 7-day old Arabidopsis thaliana plants were exposed to either of the different radiation treatments (30, 60, 110, or 430 mGy/h) or to natural background radiation (control condition) for 14 days. The parental generation consisted of previously non-exposed plants, whereas generation 1 and generation 2 plants had already received a similar irradiation in the previous one or two generations, respectively. Directly after exposure the entire methylomes were analysed with UPLC-MS/MS to measure whole genome methylation levels. Whole genome bisulfite sequencing was used to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs), including their methylation context in the three generations and this for three different radiation conditions (control, 30 mGy/h, and 110 mGy/h). Both intra- and intergenerational comparisons of the genes and transposable elements associated with the DMRs were made. Taking the methylation context into account, the highest number of changes were found for cytosines followed directly by guanine (CG methylation), whereas only limited changes in CHG methylation occurred and no changes in CHH methylation were observed. A clear increase in IR-induced DMRs was seen over the three generations that were exposed to the lowest dose rate, where generation 2 had a markedly higher number of DMRs than the previous two generations (Parent and generation 1). Counterintuitively, we did not see significant differences in the plants exposed to the highest dose rate. A large number of DMRs associated with transposable elements were found, the majority of them being hypermethylated, likely leading to more genetic stability. Next to that, a significant number of DMRs were associated with genes (either in their promoter-associated region or gene body). A functional analysis of these genes showed an enrichment for genes related to development as well as various stress responses, including DNA repair, RNA splicing, and (a)biotic stress responses. These observations indicate a role of DNA methylation in the regulation of these genes in response to IR exposure and shows a possible role for epigenetics in plant adaptation to IR over multiple generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pol Laanen
- Biosphere Impact Studies, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
- Centre for Environmental Research, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Eline Saenen
- Biosphere Impact Studies, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
| | - Mohamed Mysara
- Biosphere Impact Studies, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
| | - Jorden Van de Walle
- Biosphere Impact Studies, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
- Centre for Environmental Research, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - May Van Hees
- Biosphere Impact Studies, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
| | - Robin Nauts
- Biosphere Impact Studies, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
| | - Filip Van Nieuwerburgh
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- NXTGNT, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Griet Jacobs
- Vlaamse Instelling voor Technologisch Onderzoek, VITO, Mol, Belgium
| | - Ann Cuypers
- Centre for Environmental Research, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Nele Horemans
- Biosphere Impact Studies, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
- Centre for Environmental Research, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Nele Horemans,
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Ludovici GM, Oliveira de Souza S, Chierici A, Cascone MG, d'Errico F, Malizia A. Adaptation to ionizing radiation of higher plants: From environmental radioactivity to chernobyl disaster. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2020; 222:106375. [PMID: 32791372 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2020.106375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this work is to highlight the effects of ionizing radiation on the genetic material in higher plants by assessing both adaptive processes as well as the evolution of plant species. The effects that the ionizing radiation has on greenery following a nuclear accident, was examined by taking the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant disaster as a case study. The genetic and evolutionary effects that ionizing radiation had on plants after the Chernobyl accident were highlighted. The response of biota to Chernobyl irradiation was a complex interaction among radiation dose, dose rate, temporal and spatial variation, varying radiation sensitivities of the different plants' species, and indirect effects from other events. Ionizing radiation causes water radiolysis, generating highly reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS induce the rapid activation of detoxifying enzymes. DeoxyriboNucleic Acid (DNA) is the object of an attack by both, the hydroxyl ions and the radiation itself, thus triggering a mechanism both direct and indirect. The effects on DNA are harmful to the organism and the long-term development of the species. Dose-dependent aberrations in chromosomes are often observed after irradiation. Although multiple DNA repair mechanisms exist, double-strand breaks (DSBs or DNA-DSBs) are often subject to errors. Plants DSBs repair mechanisms mainly involve homologous and non-homologous dependent systems, the latter especially causing a loss of genetic information. Repeated ionizing radiation (acute or chronic) ensures that plants adapt, demonstrating radioresistance. An adaptive response has been suggested for this phenomenon. As a result, ionizing radiation influences the genetic structure, especially during chronic irradiation, reducing genetic variability. This reduction may be associated with the fact that particular plant species are more subject to chronic stress, confirming the adaptive theory. Therefore, the genomic effects of ionizing radiation demonstrate their likely involvement in the evolution of plant species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrea Chierici
- Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy; Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Francesco d'Errico
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Malizia
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy.
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Cannon G, Kiang JG. A review of the impact on the ecosystem after ionizing irradiation: wildlife population. Int J Radiat Biol 2020; 98:1054-1062. [PMID: 32663058 PMCID: PMC10139769 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2020.1793021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE On 26 April 1986, reactor 4 at the Chernobyl power plant underwent a catastrophic failure leading to core explosions and open-air fires. On 11 March 2011, a combination of earthquake and tsunami led to a similar disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant. In both cases, radioactive isotopes were released and contaminated the air, soil and water in a substantial area around the power plants. Humans were evacuated from the immediate regions but the wildlife stayed and continued to be affected by the ongoing high radiation exposure initially and later decayed amounts of fallout dusts with time. In this review, we will examine the significant effects of the increased radiation on vegetation, insects, fish, birds and mammals. CONCLUSIONS The initial intense radiation in these areas has gradually begun to decrease but still remains high. Adaptation to radiation is evident and the ecosystems have dynamically changed from the periods immediately after the accidents to the present day. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that allow the adaptation and recovery of wildlife to chronic radiation challenges would aid in future attempts at ecosystem remediation in the wake of such incidents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgetta Cannon
- Radiation Combined Injury Program, Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Juliann G Kiang
- Radiation Combined Injury Program, Scientific Research Department, Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Therapeutics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Department of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
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26
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Mothersill CE, Oughton DH, Schofield PN, Abend M, Adam-Guillermin C, Ariyoshi K, Beresford NA, Bonisoli-Alquati A, Cohen J, Dubrova Y, Geras’kin SA, Hevrøy TH, Higley KA, Horemans N, Jha AN, Kapustka LA, Kiang JG, Madas BG, Powathil G, Sarapultseva EI, Seymour CB, Vo NTK, Wood MD. From tangled banks to toxic bunnies; a reflection on the issues involved in developing an ecosystem approach for environmental radiation protection. Int J Radiat Biol 2020; 98:1185-1200. [DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2020.1793022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paul N. Schofield
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michael Abend
- Bundeswehr Institute of Radiobiology, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Kentaro Ariyoshi
- Integrated Center for Science and Humanities, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima City, Japan
| | | | | | - Jason Cohen
- Department of Biology and Department of Physics and Astronomy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Yuri Dubrova
- Department of Genetics, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | | | | | - Kathryn A. Higley
- School of Nuclear Science and Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Nele Horemans
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Mol, Belgium
| | - Awadhesh N. Jha
- School of Biological and Marine Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | | | - Juliann G. Kiang
- Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute, Uniformed services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Balázs G. Madas
- Environmental Physics Department, Centre for Energy Research, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gibin Powathil
- Department of Mathematics, Computational Foundry, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | | | | | - Nguyen T. K. Vo
- Department of Biology and Department of Physics and Astronomy, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Michael D. Wood
- School of Science, Engineering & Environment, University of Salford, Salford, UK
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27
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Shimalina NS, Antonova EV, Pozolotina VN. Genetic polymorphism of Plantago major populations from the radioactive and chemical polluted areas. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 257:113607. [PMID: 31767232 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.113607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The variability of nine microsatellite loci was studied for Plantago major L. populations from radioactive (East-Ural Radioactive Trace, EURT) and chemical (Karabash Copper Smelter, KCS) contaminated areas (Urals, Russia). The absorbed dose rates in the EURT area were 178-1455 times higher than background, and the indices of the total toxic load in the KCS area were 13-42 times higher than background values. In total, 65 alleles were identified in P. major populations, while the number of alleles per locus in the EURT and KCS samples was lower than in the background samples. The expected heterozygosity in all loci significantly exceeded the observed, indicating a high level of inbreeding. The largest number of rare alleles (11-21) was found in background samples, of which 3-7 alleles were private. In the technogenically disturbed zones, 8-11 rare alleles (1-2 private) were noted. The Bayesian analysis (K = 3) showed that no unique groups were found in any of the areas; descendants of all founders (pioneers) were represented in each population, but in different proportions. However, only 4.1% of the variability was distributed between local P. major populations (FST = 0.041) and 95.9% was concentrated within the samples. A pairwise comparison revealed genetic differentiation between all EURT samples. In the KCS area, there was no significant differentiation in pairs of samples that were at a distance of 3-4 km from each other. For samples from the KCS and background sites, the Mantel test showed a statistically significant relationship between geographical and genetic distances, therefore, the intensity of migration flows between these areas is high. For samples from the EURT and background areas, no such dependence was found. In both impact zones, P. major populations showed reduced genetic diversity. This article discusses the causes of this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezhda S Shimalina
- Laboratory of Population Radiobiology, Institute of Plant & Animal Ecology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Marta str. 202, Ekaterinburg, 620144, Russia
| | - Elena V Antonova
- Laboratory of Population Radiobiology, Institute of Plant & Animal Ecology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Marta str. 202, Ekaterinburg, 620144, Russia.
| | - Vera N Pozolotina
- Laboratory of Population Radiobiology, Institute of Plant & Animal Ecology, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 8 Marta str. 202, Ekaterinburg, 620144, Russia
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28
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Bolsunovsky A, Melgunov M. Radioactive particles in the Yenisei River floodplain (Russia): Characterization, leaching and potential effects in the environment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2019; 208-209:105991. [PMID: 31181344 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.105991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The operation of the Mining-and-Chemical Combine (MCC), the largest producer of weapons-grade plutonium in Russia, has resulted in radioactive contamination of the Yenisei River floodplain. Investigations carried out in Novosibirsk and Krasnoyarsk institutes have shown that the floodplain of the Yenisei downstream of the MCC is contaminated by radioactive particles (RP) of various types and activities. Analytical characterization of the RP showed that most of them were fuel particles, which were carried into the Yenisei after incidents at the MCC reactors. The plutonium and caesium isotope ratios (238Pu/239,240Pu; 137Cs/134Cs) vary substantially between the particles, indicating different source terms and time intervals when the RP were formed. In addition to fuel RP, there were particles that contained activation radionuclides. The experiment on dissolution of RP using the model solution (the simulated stomach fluid) showed different cumulative extractions of radionuclides from the particles: 60Co and 137Cs extractions were the lowest, the extracted fractions of europium and americium isotopes were the largest, and plutonium occupied an intermediate position. High concentrations of radionuclides in RP are sources of exposure of organisms in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems to low radiation doses. The plant bioassays of the effects of γ-radiation from RP showed the effect of low doses of γ-radiation on growth parameters of aquatic plant Elodea canadensis growing in the Yenisei River floodplain. The presence of RP from different sources in the Yenisei River floodplain makes this region a unique site for studying environmental effects of the particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Bolsunovsky
- Institute of Biophysics Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Krasnoyarsk, 660036, Russia.
| | - Mikhail Melgunov
- Institute of Geology and Mineralogy Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
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29
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Fuller N, Ford AT, Lerebours A, Gudkov DI, Nagorskaya LL, Smith JT. Chronic radiation exposure at Chernobyl shows no effect on genetic diversity in the freshwater crustacean, Asellus aquaticus thirty years on. Ecol Evol 2019; 9:10135-10144. [PMID: 31624541 PMCID: PMC6787803 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.5478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Analysis of genetic diversity represents a fundamental component of ecological risk assessments in contaminated environments. Many studies have assessed the genetic implications of chronic radiation exposure at Chernobyl, generally recording an elevated genetic diversity and mutation rate in rodents, plants, and birds inhabiting contaminated areas. Only limited studies have considered genetic diversity in aquatic biota at Chernobyl, despite the large number of freshwater systems where elevated dose rates will persist for many years. Consequently, the present study aimed to assess the effects of chronic radiation exposure on genetic diversity in the freshwater crustacean, Asellus aquaticus, using a genome-wide SNP approach (Genotyping-by-sequencing). It was hypothesized that genetic diversity in A. aquaticus would be positively correlated with dose rate. A. aquaticus was collected from six lakes in Belarus and the Ukraine ranging in dose rate from 0.064 to 27.1 µGy/hr. Genotyping-by-sequencing analysis was performed on 74 individuals. A significant relationship between geographical distance and genetic differentiation confirmed the Isolation-by-Distance model. Conversely, no significant relationship between dose rate and genetic differentiation suggested no effect of the contamination gradient on genetic differentiation between populations. No significant relationship between five measures of genetic diversity and dose rate was recorded, suggesting that radiation exposure has not significantly influenced genetic diversity in A. aquaticus at Chernobyl. This is the first study to adopt a genome-wide SNP approach to assess the impacts of environmental radiation exposure on biota. These findings are fundamental to understanding the long-term success of aquatic populations in contaminated environments at Chernobyl and Fukushima.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Fuller
- Institute of Marine Sciences, School of Biological SciencesUniversity of PortsmouthPortsmouthUK
| | - Alex T. Ford
- Institute of Marine Sciences, School of Biological SciencesUniversity of PortsmouthPortsmouthUK
| | - Adélaïde Lerebours
- Institute of Marine Sciences, School of Biological SciencesUniversity of PortsmouthPortsmouthUK
| | - Dmitri I. Gudkov
- Department of Freshwater RadioecologyInstitute of HydrobiologyKievUkraine
| | - Liubov L. Nagorskaya
- Applied Science Center for Bioresources of the National Academy of Sciences of BelarusMinskBelarus
| | - Jim T. Smith
- School of Earth & Environmental SciencesUniversity of PortsmouthPortsmouthUK
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30
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Duarte GT, Volkova PY, Geras'kin SA. The response profile to chronic radiation exposure based on the transcriptome analysis of Scots pine from Chernobyl affected zone. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 250:618-626. [PMID: 31035144 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.04.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Radioactive contamination of the natural areas is one of the most long-lasting anthropogenic impacts on the environment. Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) is a promising organism for radiation-related research because of its high radiosensitivity, but the genome size of Pinacea species has imposed obstacles for high-throughput studies so far. In this work, we conducted the analysis of the de novo assembled transcriptome of Scots pine populations growing in the Chernobyl-affected zone, which is still today contaminated with radionuclides because of the accident at the nuclear power plant in 1986. The transcriptome profiles indicate a clear pattern of adaptive stress response, which seems to be dose-dependent. The transcriptional response indicates a continuous modulation of the cellular redox system, enhanced expression of chaperones and histones, along with the control of ions balance. Interestingly, the activity of transposable element families is inversely correlated to the exposure levels to radiation. These adaptive responses, which are triggered by radiation doses 30 times lower than the one accepted as a safe for biota species by international regulations, suggest that the environmental management in radiation protection should be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo T Duarte
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, 249032, Obninsk, Russia; Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, INRA, AgroParisTech, CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay, 78000, Versailles, France
| | - Polina Yu Volkova
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, 249032, Obninsk, Russia
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31
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Geras'kin S, Volkova P, Vasiliyev D, Dikareva N, Oudalova A, Kazakova E, Makarenko E, Duarte G, Kuzmenkov A. Scots pine as a promising indicator organism for biomonitoring of the polluted environment: A case study on chronically irradiated populations. MUTATION RESEARCH-GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2019; 842:3-13. [PMID: 31255224 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2018.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
In this paper the main results of long-term (2003-2016) observations on Scots pine populations inhabiting sites affected by the Chernobyl accident are presented. Populations growing for many years under chronic radiation exposure are characterized by the enhanced mutation rates, increased genetic diversity, changes in the gene expression and in the level of genome-wide methylation, alterations in the temporal dynamics of cytogenetic abnormalities and genetic structure of populations. However, significant changes at the genetic level had no effects on enzymatic activity, morphological abnormalities, and reproductive ability of pine trees. The results presented increase our understanding of the long-term effects of chronic radiation exposure on plant populations in the wild nature and provide important information for the management and monitoring of radioactively contaminated territories.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Polina Volkova
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Obninsk, Russia
| | - Denis Vasiliyev
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Obninsk, Russia
| | - Nina Dikareva
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Obninsk, Russia
| | - Alla Oudalova
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Obninsk, Russia; Obninsk Institute for Nuclear Power Engineering, National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, Obninsk, Russia
| | | | | | - Gustavo Duarte
- Russian Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, Obninsk, Russia; Institute Jean-Pierre Bourgin, Versailles, France
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Rybak AV, Belykh ES, Maystrenko TA, Velegzhaninov IO. Microsatellite polymorphism of Trifolium pratense population at the conditions of radioactive and chemical contamination of soil (Komi republic, Russia). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:34701-34710. [PMID: 30324368 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-3375-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
There is no clear understanding of microevolutionary changes in natural populations of plants and animals due to anthropogenic contamination of the environment with toxicants and mutagens. But such data are necessary to forecast long-term effects of human activity. In this research, we studied genetic polymorphism in T. pratense sampled from seven sites varying in radioactive and chemical soil contamination in the vicinity of Vodny settlement (Komi, Russia). Analysis of five SSR loci was shown to be similar in a whole (N), mean (Na) and effective (Ne) numbers of alleles, heterozygosity indexes (Ho and He), and the Shannon index (I). Difference in the private allele numbers was registered: the most contaminated site has 5 and others from 0 up 2 private alleles. No difference was found in the genetic structure of T. pratense population growing at the conditions of radioactive and chemical contamination. The Bayesian analysis provided evidence of a single cluster (K = 1) due to a similar genetic structure of samples, while AMOVA results demonstrated a high variability within individuals (75%) and a low variability (1%) among groups of T. pratense from sites that differ in the contamination level. Thus, the long-term radioactive and heavy metal contamination of soil did not result in significant microevolutionary changes in T. pratense population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna V Rybak
- Institute of Biology of Komi Scientific Centre of Ural Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Kommunisticheskaya 28, Syktyvkar, Russian Federation, 167982
| | - Elena S Belykh
- Institute of Biology of Komi Scientific Centre of Ural Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Kommunisticheskaya 28, Syktyvkar, Russian Federation, 167982.
| | - Tatiana A Maystrenko
- Institute of Biology of Komi Scientific Centre of Ural Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Kommunisticheskaya 28, Syktyvkar, Russian Federation, 167982
| | - Ilya O Velegzhaninov
- Institute of Biology of Komi Scientific Centre of Ural Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, Kommunisticheskaya 28, Syktyvkar, Russian Federation, 167982
- Polytechnical Institute of Vyatka State University, Kirov, Russian Federation
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33
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Shimalina NS, Orekhova NA, Pozolotina VN. Features of Prooxidant and Antioxidant Systems of Greater Plantain Plantago major Growing for a Long Time under Conditions of Radioactive Contamination. RUSS J ECOL+ 2018. [DOI: 10.1134/s1067413618050120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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34
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Volkova PY, Geras'kin SA. 'Omic' technologies as a helpful tool in radioecological research. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2018; 189:156-167. [PMID: 29677564 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2018.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This article presents a brief review of the modern 'omic' technologies, namely genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, as well as the examples of their possible use in radioecology. For each technology, a short description of advances, limitations, and instrumental applications is given. In addition, the review contains examples of successful use of 'omic' technologies in the assessment of biological effects of pollutants in the field conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Polina Yu Volkova
- Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, 249032, Kievskoe shosse, 109 km, Obninsk, Russia.
| | - Stanislav A Geras'kin
- Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, 249032, Kievskoe shosse, 109 km, Obninsk, Russia
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35
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Caplin N, Willey N. Ionizing Radiation, Higher Plants, and Radioprotection: From Acute High Doses to Chronic Low Doses. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2018; 9:847. [PMID: 29997637 PMCID: PMC6028737 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2018.00847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the effects of ionizing radiation (IR) on plants is important for environmental protection, for agriculture and horticulture, and for space science but plants have significant biological differences to the animals from which much relevant knowledge is derived. The effects of IR on plants are understood best at acute high doses because there have been; (a) controlled experiments in the field using point sources, (b) field studies in the immediate aftermath of nuclear accidents, and (c) controlled laboratory experiments. A compilation of studies of the effects of IR on plants reveals that although there are numerous field studies of the effects of chronic low doses on plants, there are few controlled experiments that used chronic low doses. Using the Bradford-Hill criteria widely used in epidemiological studies we suggest that a new phase of chronic low-level radiation research on plants is desirable if its effects are to be properly elucidated. We emphasize the plant biological contexts that should direct such research. We review previously reported effects from the molecular to community level and, using a plant stress biology context, discuss a variety of acute high- and chronic low-dose data against Derived Consideration Reference Levels (DCRLs) used for environmental protection. We suggest that chronic low-level IR can sometimes have effects at the molecular and cytogenetic level at DCRL dose rates (and perhaps below) but that there are unlikely to be environmentally significant effects at higher levels of biological organization. We conclude that, although current data meets only some of the Bradford-Hill criteria, current DCRLs for plants are very likely to be appropriate at biological scales relevant to environmental protection (and for which they were intended) but that research designed with an appropriate biological context and with more of the Bradford-Hill criteria in mind would strengthen this assertion. We note that the effects of IR have been investigated on only a small proportion of plant species and that research with a wider range of species might improve not only the understanding of the biological effects of radiation but also that of the response of plants to environmental stress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Neil Willey
- Centre for Research in Biosciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Volkova PY, Geras'kin SA, Horemans N, Makarenko ES, Saenen E, Duarte GT, Nauts R, Bondarenko VS, Jacobs G, Voorspoels S, Kudin M. Chronic radiation exposure as an ecological factor: Hypermethylation and genetic differentiation in irradiated Scots pine populations. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 232:105-112. [PMID: 28931465 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.08.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 08/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Genetic and epigenetic changes were investigated in chronically irradiated Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) populations from territories that were heavily contaminated by radionuclides as result of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant accident. In comparison to the reference site, the genetic diversity revealed by electrophoretic mobility of AFLPs was found to be significantly higher at the radioactively contaminated areas. In addition, the genome of pine trees was significantly hypermethylated at 4 of the 7 affected sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Yu Volkova
- Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, 249030, Obninsk, Russian Federation.
| | - S A Geras'kin
- Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, 249030, Obninsk, Russian Federation
| | - N Horemans
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK•CEN, Biosphere Impact Studies, Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - E S Makarenko
- Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, 249030, Obninsk, Russian Federation
| | - E Saenen
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK•CEN, Biosphere Impact Studies, Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - G T Duarte
- Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, 249030, Obninsk, Russian Federation
| | - R Nauts
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre SCK•CEN, Biosphere Impact Studies, Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - V S Bondarenko
- Institute of Radiology and Agroecology, 249030, Obninsk, Russian Federation
| | - G Jacobs
- Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO NV), Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - S Voorspoels
- Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO NV), Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium
| | - M Kudin
- Polessye State Radiation Ecological Reserve, 247618, Belarus
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