Radiation-induced DNA damage by alpha particle emission

Alpha particle emission is a form of high linear energy transfer (LET) ionizing radiation that causes complex and highly localized DNA damage, particularly DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), through ionization events along very short tracks within exposed cells[2][3][5][7]. The mechanism of DNA damage by alpha particles is both direct (physical disruption of DNA structure) and indirect (generation of reactive oxygen species and other radicals causing further chemical DNA damage)[5][6]. This results in characteristic damage signatures, such as dense clusters of DSBs that are challenging for cellular repair systems and often lead to apoptosis, cell death, or chromosomal aberrations[2][3][6]. While the site of action is DNA in cells rather than a single molecular target like a receptor or enzyme, this mechanism underpins the cytotoxic effects of targeted alpha therapy (e.g., Radium-223), which is leveraged therapeutically, especially against cancer, because it is potent against both dividing and non-dividing tumor cells[2][3][5]. However, the concept "Radiation-induced DNA damage via alpha particle emission" does not refer to a discrete molecular entity, protein, or receptor but rather to a biological effect or process; thus, it does not fit conventional "therapeutic target" categories (like receptors, enzymes, or ion channels). It is important to note this distinction when structuring pharmacological target information[5][6].

Other names

Alpha particle-induced DNA damageAlpha radiation-induced DNA damageAlpha emitter-induced DNA damageAlpha-particle DNA injury

Induction of clustered DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs); Oxidative DNA damage via ionization and free radicals; Chromosomal fragmentation and misrepair