Biophysical Models of Radiation Action

This work integrates the physics, chemistry, and biology of radiation damage into a unified framework. It is a valuable guide for final year master’s and PhD students in radiation related topics in addition to postdoctoral researchers seeking to understand the fundamental mechanisms of radiation-induced cellular damage.

Three distinct processes occur in sequence when human cells encounter environmental toxins like radiation. Firstly, physical damage occurs as radiation particles deposit energy into cellular structures. A chemical reaction follows, as this energy creates fast-moving ions that attack and damage DNA. Lastly a biological response is initiated as the cells attempt to repair the damage. Understanding this interaction is essential for assessing radiation risks, developing cancer treatments, and protecting human health. Unlike traditional texts that focus solely on mathematical modelling, this work integrates the physics, chemistry, and biology of radiation damage into a unified framework. It provides researchers, students, and professionals with the tools to understand not just what happens when cells are irradiated, but how and why. It presents comprehensive mathematical models for all three parts of this process, complete with computer programs that generate testable predictions. By comparing simulated data with experimental results, this book validates theoretical frameworks and bridges the gap between abstract mathematics and biological reality. Each chapter is complemented by computer code, intended to support and encourage learning and understanding of the knowledge underlying biophysics and biology of this topic. This will be a valuable guide for final year master’s and PhD students in radiation related topics in addition to postdoctoral researchers seeking to understand the fundamental mechanisms of radiation-induced cellular damage. It will also be a useful reference for radiobiologists, medical physicists, and radiation oncologists involved in teaching and developing mathematical models in radiobiology. Key features:Written by one of the world’s leading experts in biophysical modelling of radiation interaction with living material. Offers researchers, teachers and students in the field a resource and programs for computer experimentation and learning. Accompanied by computer codes used for the development of the models presented.