Beyond DNA Damage: Diverse Cellular Responses to Ionising Radiation

Ionising radiation causes DNA damage and activates the DNA damage response. However, its biological effects extend beyond DNA damage. This talk will present novel radiation-induced mechanisms of cell death and their significance for tumour control and the suppression of metastasis.

A man giving a talk behind a fogged-up glass pane.

Ionising radiation exerts its biological effects primarily through DNA damage, particularly DNA double-strand breaks. This activates responses that regulate DNA repair, apoptosis and cellular senescence. Recent studies show that radiation-induced responses also involve reactive oxygen species, lipid peroxidation, metabolic reprogramming and extracellular vesicle-mediated cell–cell communication.

These responses are strongly influenced by radiation quality. Low-LET radiation tends to cause more spatially dispersed DNA damage, whereas high-LET radiation produces clustered and complex damage that is more difficult to repair. Ultra-high dose-rate irradiation (FLASH), as well as non-canonical forms of cell death such as ferroptosis, are emerging as promising approaches to improve tumour control while reducing toxicity to healthy tissue.

Dr Kazumasa Minami’s talk will provide an overview of cellular responses to ionising radiation, focusing on DNA damage responses, radiation quality, and novel mechanisms of cell death, invasion and metastasis suppression.

Format: BIPS Institute Seminar
Date & Time: Thursday, 20 August 2026, 14:00–14:55
Speaker: Dr Kazumasa Minami | University of Osaka
Language: English
Registration to attend via Zoom: [here]