Abstract
Clustered DNA damage has been suggested be specific to ionizing radiation. Such damage is considered to be formed by localized energy deposition by radiation and difficult to be repaired. Therefore, the initial physical feature of ionizing radiation is an important determinant biological consequences following radiation exposure. Monte Carlo simulation of track structure could provide the details of the energy deposition distribution in nanometer scale, which is closely correlated with the initial conditions of DNA damage. Spectrum and spatial distribution of DNA damage and its correlation with biological consequences are studied by modelling and simulation of both direct and indirect actions. Higher-order structure of DNA model described in atomistic revel has been also recently developed to mimic cellular condition. This paper presents contribution and possible role of modelling of track structure, DNA damage and biological consequences to understand the mechanism of radiation biological effect. [J Radiat Res 44:380 (2003)]
