Genetics of Radiation-related Non-cancer Diseases

Dr. Catharine West presents an introduction to the genetics of radiation-related non-cancer diseases, such as cataracts, circulatory disease – vascular damage, non-malignant respiratory and digestive diseases, and cognitive impairment. Key points: Studies in patients receiving therapeutic radiation can increase understanding of the genetics of radiation-related non-cancer diseases. Genetic studies of radiation toxicity must allow for potential confounders and modifiers. The genetic determinants of non-cancer effects will involve rare variants with large effects, low frequency variants with moderate effects, and common variants with small effects. She also includes discussion of key considerations in building cohorts, designing studies, following STROGAR reporting guidelines, and using fine-mapping.

Download Dr. West's slides in pdf format (2.7 MB).

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