Some Aspects Related to Transmission of Radiation-Induced Alterations due to the Bystander Effect

This paper presents the first results of research and observations within the framework of the Integrated Project for the assessment of radiation-induced nontargeted effects. The remote bystander effect, related to nontargeted effects, is one of the least studied phenomena in terms of manifestations and mechanisms. The international laboratory practice with respect to this phenomenon commenced with demonstration of the bystander effect in fish and other aquacultures. Our studies have revealed changes similar to radiation-induced pathologies in nonirradiated mice kept for three months in contact with the irradiated species (exposed to a 3 Gy γ-ray dose). Changes in behavioral responses, a statistically significant trend for decreasing spleen weight ( r = –0.416; p = 0.048), an expanding area of alopecia ( r = –0.631; p = 0.001), and other anomalies are noted. Discussions on possible mechanisms of the phenomena refer to both A.M. Kuzin’s theory of radiotoxins (1966) and the interpretation of the hypotheses investigated by C. Mothersill (2010–2019). An assumption is made on the important role of derivatives of lipid peroxides in the formation of this effect. The results of these studies indicate the need for further investigation of the radiation-induced bystander effect by using the molecular and cellular methodological approaches.