Course

Radiobiology, Radiation Protection & Dosimetry

Course Duration: 3h 15m
Last Updated:March 14, 2026
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About Course

This course explores the biological consequences of ionizing radiation and the critical principles of radiation protection necessary for clinical practice. It details the mechanisms of cellular damage at the molecular level, including DNA interaction, and delineates the distinction between stochastic and non-stochastic (deterministic) effects.

The curriculum includes an in-depth review of dosimetry instrumentation, ICRP regulatory standards, and practical methods for dose limitation to ensure operational safety for both personnel and patients, drawing on historical evidence from Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

What I will learn?

  • Explain how radiation interacts with DNA, amino acids, and proteins.
  • Differentiate between Stochastic and Non-Stochastic (Deterministic) effects.
  • Memorize current ICRP dose limits for staff and the public.
  • Understand the timeline of radiation injury and organ pathology syndromes.
  • Design a basic radiation protection plan for a diagnostic department.
  • Identify appropriate monitoring devices for different environments.

Requirements

  • Completion of RDG 202 (Physics) is recommended.
  • No prior advanced biology knowledge required.

Course Curriculum

Cellular Radiobiology
Radiation doesn't just "burn" skin; it alters life at the molecular level. This section zooms in on the cell, exploring how ionizing radiation attacks DNA directly and indirectly. We cover Target Theory, cell survival curves, and the lethal limits of exposure, explaining why we shield patients.

  • Cell Theory & The Genetic Apparatus
  • Radiation Chemistry: Effect on DNA, Amino Acids & Proteins
  • Cellular Damage & Survival Curves
  • Target Theory & Lethal Dose
  • Cellular Radiobiology Quiz

Biological Effects
What happens after the exposure? We categorize radiation injuries into Stochastic (random, long-term) and Non-Stochastic (deterministic, threshold-based) effects. From acute radiation syndromes to genetic mutations, this section analyzes the pathology of radiation injury using historical data from Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

Protection & Dosimetry
Safety is our license to practice. This section details the "ALARA" principle, ICRP dose limits, and the practical methods of limiting exposure (Time, Distance, Shielding). We also review the design materials used in department construction and the personal dosimeters (TLDs, Film Badges) you wear daily.

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