The lymphocyte cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome assay and its application in radiation biodosimetry

Abstract

The cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome (CBMN Cyt) assay is one of the best-validated methods for measuring chromosome damage in human lymphocytes. This paper describes the methodology, biology, and mechanisms underlying the application of this technique for biodosimetry following exposure to ionizing radiation. Apart from the measurement of micronuclei, it is also possible to measure other important biomarkers within the CBMN Cyt assay that are relevant to radiation biodosimetry. These include nucleoplasmic bridges, which are an important additional measure of radiation-induced damage that originate from dicentric chromosomes as well as the proportion of dividing cells and cells undergoing cell death. A brief account is also given of current developments in the automation of this technique and important knowledge gaps that need attention to further enhance the applicability of this important method for radiation biodosimetry.