Laboratory Training in Radiobiology

Students with a keen interest in radiobiological research have the opportunity to participate in hands-on laboratory training organized at our facility. These exercises are designed to bridge theoretical knowledge with experimental practice, equipping participants with essential skills to understand the cellular response to ionizing radiation at the molecular and functional levels.

Scope of laboratory classes:

1. Culturing Glioblastoma Cells in Nutrient-Rich Media. Participants acquire experience in the cultivation of glioblastoma cell lines under controlled conditions. The training covers:

  • Preparation of culture media supplemented with essential nutrients,
  • Seeding of cells into appropriate culture vessels (e.g., multiwell plates),
  • Monitoring of cell proliferation using phase-contrast microscopy,
  • Maintenance of environmental parameters such as temperature (typically 37°C), humidity, and CO₂ concentration (5%) within a CO₂ incubator to support optimal growth.

2. Irradiation of Cells Using a 241Am Alpha Source. Students gain insight into radiological safety and the experimental use of ionizing radiation. The procedures include:

  • Sample preparation and pre-irradiation handling of cultured cells,
  • Accurate positioning of the 241Am alpha-emitting source relative to the cell culture to ensure uniform exposure,
  • Determination of radiation dose and exposure time by the experimental protocol.

3. Post-Irradiation Assessment of Cell Viability Using Biochemical Assays. Following irradiation, students perform biochemical analyses to evaluate radiation-induced cytotoxicity. Key elements of this phase include:

  • Application of viability assays such as the MTT assay or Trypan Blue exclusion, which differentiates viable from non-viable cells based on membrane integrity or metabolic activity.
  • Quantitative analysis using spectrophotometry or microscopy.
  • Data processing, including graphical representation and statistical interpretation of results, with emphasis on biological significance.

Educational Objectives and Benefits:

Through this intensive practical training, students:

  • Gain proficiency in aseptic techniques essential for handling biological materials.
  • Develop a conceptual and experimental understanding of radiobiological mechanisms, particularly DNA damage and cellular stress responses induced by ionizing radiation.
  • Enhance their ability to analyze and interpret experimental data, drawing scientifically grounded conclusions.
  • Improve laboratory precision, critical thinking, and analytical skills, all of which are fundamental for careers in biomedical sciences, biotechnology, or academic research.

This integrated training module serves as an entry point into advanced radiobiological research and may inspire participants to pursue graduate-level theses (M.Sc. or Ph.D.) within our laboratory. It is also an opportunity to explore the translational potential of radiobiology in cancer therapy and genomic medicine.