Ask AI: Explain the mechanisms behind radiation-induced chromosomal aberrations .

When the body is exposed to ionizing radiation, it can cause damage to DNA present in the cells. These types of radiation can include gamma rays, X-rays and cosmic rays. Chromosomal aberrations can occur when the damaged DNA is replicated, resulting in a change in the chromosomes' structure or number. Some of the mechanisms involved in radiation-induced chromosomal aberrations include: 1. Breakage: Ionizing radiation can cause double-stranded breaks in the DNA molecule, which can lead to chromosomal abnormalities. 2. Fusion/Fission: Damage to the DNA can cause chromosomes to fuse together or split apart, leading to structural abnormalities. 3. Translocations: Ionizing radiation can cause fragments of one chromosome to attach to another chromosome, which can lead to structural abnormalities. 4. Deletions: Radiation can cause a loss of part of a chromosome, which can result in a genetic imbalance. These types of chromosomal aberrations can lead to a range of health problems, including cancer, birth defects, and other genetic disorders.