Researchers Analyze Chromosomes for Radiation Safety and Nuclear Emergencies
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Using a microscope, PNRI researchers analyze blood samples for the presence of dicentric chromosomes which are telltale signs of radiation exposure
Researchers Analyze Chromosomes for Radiation Safety and Nuclear Emergencies
To ensure the safety of workers occupationally exposed to radiation in various sectors, PNRI researchers continue to study blood samples for any signs of radiation exposure beyond the allowable regulatory limits.
Cytogenetic biodosimetry involves the analysis of chromosomes in white blood cells to see if there are any aberrations that would serve as signs of radiation damage.
Most chromosomes look like the letter “X”, consisting of two arms connected by one centromere, but dicentric chromosomes instead have two centromeres which means that they are affected by ionizing radiation.
Many medical and industrial professionals wear dosimeters to monitor their exposure, but analyzing chromosomes provide a more direct assessment of the effects of radiation in a person’s body.
Cytogenetics can also be used in emergency preparedness and response. Researchers can assess the absorbed radiation doses of people who are involved in nuclear or radiological incidents.
IAEA donates COVID-19 detection kits to PH
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RT-PCR detection kits provide more accurate COVID-19 test results. (Photo by IAEA)
IAEA donates COVID-19 detection kits to PH
As part of its program to help its member-states address COVID-19, the International Atomic Energy Agency donated detection kits that use nuclear techniques for quick, accurate detection of the dreaded virus. The Philippines is one of the member-states of the agency.
Called the Real-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), the technology is an important tool in detecting COVID-19 quickly, enabling doctors to immediately come up with diagnosis and provide proper medical care, increasing the survival chance of patients.
The diagnostic kits include microcentrifuge for sample extraction, shaker vortex, thermocycler, scanner for cryotubes, fastvirus master mix, and personal protective equipment. The €84,000- (or PhP4,776,595) worth donation is expected to be delivered next week to the Department of Health (DOH) which will field it to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine and hospitals that conduct COVID-19 testing.
The IAEA will likewise conduct a training on the use of nuclear-derived techniques for the detection of COVID-19 when current restrictions are eased. It will be participated in by two professors from the University of the Philippines Manila.
The detection kits were formally requested by the Department of Foreign Affairs for DOH, and facilitated by the Permanent Mission of the Republic of the Philippines to the IAEA with the support of the DOST-PNRI, the country’s authority on nuclear matters. This IAEA donation is part of the technical cooperation project titled "Strengthening Capabilities of Member States in Building, Strengthening and Restoring Capacities and Services in Case of Outbreaks, Emergencies and Disasters."
Suspension of Work at DOST-PNRI
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In line with the suspension of work in the Executive Branch of the government to prevent the spread of COVID-19, work in the DOST-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute is temporarily suspended until further notice.
You may e-mail us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or keep yourselves posted at our PNRI Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/PNRIDOST/) for more updates.
You may also reach us for your specific concerns through the following contact details:
Radiation Protection Services Section
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Nuclear Training Center
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Stay safe, everyone!
Philippines INIR Mission Report by the IAEA
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The Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) Report for the Philippines is already available at the website of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Link to the IAEA Website:
https://www.iaea.org/services/review-missions/integrated-nuclear-infrastructure-review-inir
Link to the Philippines INIR Mission Report:
INIR is a holistic peer review to assist Member States in assessing the status of their national infrastructure for the introduction of nuclear power. The review covers the comprehensive infrastructure required for developing a safe, secure and sustainable nuclear power program. The Phase 1 INIR Mission for the Philippines was conducted from December 10 to 17, 2018, followed by the turnover of the official report on October 30, 2019.
