 |
|
Could vitamin D save us from radiation?
November 10, 2008Radiological health expert Daniel Hayes, Ph.D., of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene suggests that a form of vitamin D could be one of our body's main protections against damage from low levels of radiation. Writing in the International Journal of Low Radiation, Hayes explains that calcitriol, the active form of vitamin D, may protect us from background radiation and could be used as a safe protective agent before or after a low-level nuclear incident.
Biologists and pharmacologists who specialize in radiation and health are keen to find an effective agent that could be given by mouth, have few side effects and would protect us against a suspected or impending nuclear event, whether an accident, terrorist attack, or other incident.
In terms of protecting people from the long-term effects of radiation, cancer formation would be the main focus. The ideal agent would act by blocking DNA damage or by halting the progression of damaged cells that might eventually grow into cancers.
While a drug is yet to be found with such ideal radio-protective properties, other researchers have demonstrated that certain dietary supplements have at least some of the desired properties. Hayes argues that vitamin D, and in particular its biologically active form, could be the key ingredient in radiological protection.
"Our general understanding and appreciation of the multifaceted protective actions of vitamin D have recently entered a new era," says Hayes, "It is now becoming recognized that its most active molecular form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, may offer protection against a variety of radiation- and otherwise-induced damages."
Hayes has reviewed the various biochemical mechanisms by which vitamin D protects users_ from the low levels of natural radiation released by the rocks on which we stand and the skies above us. He points out that calcitriol is involved in cell cycle regulation and control of proliferation, cellular differentiation and communication between cells, as well as programmed cell death (apoptosis and autophagy) and antiangiogenesis.
Calcitriol is the form of vitamin D that activates the body's Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), which allows gene transcription to take place and the activation of the innate immune response.
It is possible that several of the transcribed by the VDR will help transcribe proteins that protect the body against radiation.
"Vitamin D by its preventive/ameliorating actions should be given serious consideration as a protective agent against sublethal radiation injury, and in particular that induced by low-level radiation," concludes Hayes.
Inderscience Publishers
While a drug is yet to be found with such ideal radio-protective properties, other researchers have demonstrated that certain dietary supplements have at least some of the desired properties. Hayes argues that vitamin D, and in particular its biologically active form, could be the key ingredient in radiological protection.
"Our general understanding and appreciation of the multifaceted protective actions of vitamin D have recently entered a new era," says Hayes, "It is now becoming recognized that its most active molecular form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, may offer protection against a variety of radiation- and otherwise-induced damages."
Hayes has reviewed the various biochemical mechanisms by which vitamin D protects users_ from the low levels of natural radiation released by the rocks on which we stand and the skies above us. He points out that calcitriol is involved in cell cycle regulation and control of proliferation, cellular differentiation and communication between cells, as well as programmed cell death (apoptosis and autophagy) and antiangiogenesis.
Calcitriol is the form of vitamin D that activates the body's Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), which allows gene transcription to take place and the activation of the innate immune response.
It is possible that several of the transcribed by the VDR will help transcribe proteins that protect the body against radiation.
"Vitamin D by its preventive/ameliorating actions should be given serious consideration as a protective agent against sublethal radiation injury, and in particular that induced by low-level radiation," concludes Hayes.
Inderscience Publishers
Radiation Current Events and Radiation News RSSPTB Terahertz calibration satisfies US laser manufacturer
Terahertz radiation still lies in a metrological no man's land - a metrology gap. The Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) can now close this gap.
First use of antibody and stem cell transplantation to successfully treat advanced leukemia
For the first time, researchers at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center have reported the use of a radiolabeled antibody to deliver targeted doses of radiation, followed by a stem cell transplant, to successfully treat a group of leukemia and pre-leukemia patients for whom there previously had been no other curative treatment options.
Are the Alps growing or shrinking?
The Alps are growing just as quickly in height, as they are shrinking. This paradoxical result could be proven by a group of German and Swiss geoscientists.
New Synthetic Molecules Trigger Immune Response to HIV and Prostate Cancer
Researchers at Yale University have developed synthetic molecules capable of enhancing the body's immune response to HIV and HIV-infected cells, as well as to prostate cancer cells. Their findings, published online in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, could lead to novel therapeutic approaches for these diseases.
Plentiful poinsettias without PGRs
Poinsettias can be a lucrative crop for ornamental plant growers, particularly during the Christmas season.
Chemo-radiation before prostate removal may prevent cancer recurrence
Researchers in the Oregon Health & Science University Knight Cancer Institute and the Portland Veterans Affairs Medical Center have found a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy given before prostate removal is safe and may have the potential to reduce cancer recurrence and improve patient survival.
Radiation therapy technique successfully treats pain in patients with advanced cancer
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), a radiation therapy procedure pioneered at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI) that precisely delivers a large dose of radiation to tumors, effectively controls pain in patients with cancer that has spread to the spine.
Aiming to avoid damage to neurocognitive areas of the brain during cranial radiation
Radiation oncologists at Rush University Medical Center are intent on finding ways to avoid damage to the critically important hippocampus and limbic circuit of the brain when cranial radiation is required to treat existing or potential metastatic cancers.
Study gives clearer picture of how land-use changes affect U.S. climate
Researchers say regional surface temperatures can be affected by land use, suggesting that local and regional strategies, such as creating green spaces and buffer zones in and around urban areas, could be a tool in addressing climate change.
NRL sensor provides critical space weather observations
Launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif., aboard an United Launch Alliance Atlas V launch vehicle, Oct. 18, 2009, the Special Sensor Ultraviolet Limb Imager (SSULI) developed by NRL's Space Science Division and Spacecraft Engineering Department offers a first of its kind technique for remote sensing of the ionosphere and thermosphere from space.
More Radiation Current Events and Radiation News Articles
 |
Radiation Detection and Measurement by Glenn F. Knoll (Author) A Classic Text on Radiation Detection and Measurement Now Updated and Expanded Building on the proven success of this widely-used text, the Third Edition will provide you with a clear understanding of the methods and instrumentation used in the detection and measurement of ionizing radiation. It provides in-depth coverage of the basic principles of radiation detection as well as illustrating their application in a full set of modern instruments. In addition to a complete description of well-established detection and spectroscopic methods, many recently developed approaches are also explored. These include extensive new discussions of semiconductor detectors with unique properties, recently developed scintillation materials and photomultiplier tubes, and several gas-filled detectors of new... |
 |
Understanding Radiation Science: Basic Nuclear and Health Physics by James, Mannie Shuler (Author) The purpose of Understanding Radiation Science: Basic Nuclear and Health Physics is to provide the reader a basic understanding of radiation science. Therefore, basic nuclear physics and health physics principles are presented through chapters on atomic structure, types of radiation, terminology and units, radiation biology, exposure and controls, background radiation, personnel monitoring, and radiation instrumentation. The book concludes with chapters on historical events and definitions. This book provides introductory information for students starting their education in nuclear physics, health physics and nuclear engineering. The material covered in this book is appropriate for all types of radiation workers. Persons studying to take the health physics certification exam, radiation... |
 |
Radiation Meter by Sper Scientific Small and light enough to go anywhere, yet sensitive enough to detect minuscule amounts of gamma, beta or X-rays. Excellent for scanning lab work areas and clothing for traces of radioactivity after clean-up, or as a personal monitor in areas of potential radiation exposure. Useful in school labs for geology and science projects. One-button operation, can be used by untrained personnel. Uses a Geiger-Mueller tube detector. The Meterregisters 0~10mR/hour (milli-Roentgen) and 0~100 uSv/hour (microsieverts) on a dual scale. Audible clicking will increase with the amount of background radiation. Beeping begins at 20mR/hr, increasing in frequency in proportion to the radiation level. Powered by a 9-Volt battery, included, which lasts 50 hours at normal background levels. Note: Radiation Meter... |
 |
Handbook of Radiation Effects by Andrew Holmes-Siedle (Author), Len Adams (Author) A handbook of engineers to fill the gap in the fields of high-energy radiation environments, electronic device physics and materials. Provides a straightforward account of the problems which arise when high-energy radiation bombards matter and of engineering methods for solving those problems. |
 |
Nuclear Radiation Symbol Embroidered Patch Iron-On Danger Symbol Yellow Logo by Cypress Collectibles Embroidered Patches This brand new embroidered patch depicts the international warning symbol for nuclear or radiological hazards. Heat-seal backing allows buyer to iron this patch onto virtually any fabric. |
 |
Fellowes Standard Glare Screen 13/15IN Anti-Static Anti-Radiation by Fellowes This value-priced, quality filter reduces glare over 99% to relieve eye strain and fatigue. Hanging, flat frame design with universal clips provides a customized fit to virtually any monitor. Traditional tint glass models enhance image contrast for easier viewing. |
 |
Radiation: A Slow Death Directed By: Hitomi Kamanaka The consequences of nuclear warfare, as well as the general effects of atmospheric radiation, are explored through the eyes of its victims in this compelling and unsettling documentary. Originally, the Japanese word "hibakusha" was used to refer to the survivors of the atomic bomb. Here, the director goes back to its literal meaning, "victim of radiation" to include new generations of sufferers who have emerged globally. This film documents the lives of these sufferers including Iraqi children irradiated by the use of depleted uranium ammunition during the Gulf War, American farmers living near the Hanford plutonium factory in Washington state, and survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Though separated by time and space, their common peril delivers a strong message to the contemporary... |
 |
Atoms, Radiation, and Radiation Protection (Physics Textbook) by James E. Turner (Author) Atoms, Radiation, and Radiation Protection offers professionals and advanced students a comprehensive coverage of the major concepts that underlie the origins and transport of ionizing radiation in matter. Understanding atomic structure and the physical mechanisms of radiation interactions is the foundation on which much of the current practice of radiological health protection is based. The work covers the detection and measurement of radiation and the statistical interpretation of the data. The procedures that are used to protect man and the environment from the potential harmful effects of radiation are thoroughly described. Basic principles are illustrated with an abundance of worked examples that exemplify practical applications. Chapters include problem sets (with partial answers)... |
 |
Nuclear Anti Radiation Tablets KIO3 170 mg Potassium Iodate by Medical Corps Anti-Radiation Tablets this is a new sealed bottle of KIO3 Potassium Iodate anti-radiation tablets. Each bottle contains 60 tablets 170 mg each. The 170 mg bottles are much more popular than the 85 mg pills. They give you more protection with fewer pills. The date on the bottle is April 2018. This should be in everyone's emergency kit. Don't wait for an emergency to order these, get them while you can, after an event will be too late. The latest news indicates that Nuclear Power plants, over 100 in our country, are at risk from a terrorist attack. A radiation leak from any one of these plants could be carried downwind for hundreds of miles, potentially poisoning thousands or even millions of people in large population areas. Buy now and get 60 170mg. tablets of Potassium Iodate... |
 |
The Neutralizer-Neutralize Hazardous Cell Phone Radiation and Electromagnetic Pollution (3 Pack) by Aulterra Thanks to modern technology and science you can now protect yourself from harmful EMF's from your cell phone, computer/T.V. screen, and microwave ovens. The Neutralizer prevents our DNA from breaking 100% of the time. Protect yourself and your loved ones!!!! No one knows the long term effect this may have on your health. |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |