RERF to begin analysis of A-bomb survivor genomes by end of this fiscal year
Jun. 2, 2023
by Kana Kobayashi, Staff Writer
On June 1, the Radiation Effects Research Foundation (RERF), a binational scientific organization located in Hiroshima’s Minami Ward, announced that it would begin for the first time analysis of genomes (entirety of genetic information) using biosamples provided to RERF by atomic bomb survivors. The analysis, which will begin this fiscal year, is expected to lead to clarification of effects on health from the atomic bombing.
According to RERF, the genome analysis will involve a close examination of the blood cells stored at RERF of about 100 Hiroshima A-bomb survivors. The research organization plans to determine within about three years the mechanisms behind how leukemia and other diseases have developed as a result of exposure to radiation from the atomic bombing. On the same day, an external advisory committee consisting of six members, including first- and second-generation A-bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, held a closed online meeting to discuss their opinions about the research.
In 2020, a separate external advisory committee advised RERF to be careful in conducting genome analysis of A-bomb survivors. In 2022, the committee provided advice to RERF regarding analysis of the genomes of second-generation A-bomb survivors.
After conclusion of the advisory committee meeting that day, RERF Chairperson Ohtsura Niwa spoke at an online press conference. “Transparency is always necessary. In order to build mutual trust, it was important that RERF came to an understanding about everyone’s ideas and thoughts regarding the issue,” said Mr. Niwa.
(Originally published on June 2, 2023)
On June 1, the Radiation Effects Research Foundation (RERF), a binational scientific organization located in Hiroshima’s Minami Ward, announced that it would begin for the first time analysis of genomes (entirety of genetic information) using biosamples provided to RERF by atomic bomb survivors. The analysis, which will begin this fiscal year, is expected to lead to clarification of effects on health from the atomic bombing.
According to RERF, the genome analysis will involve a close examination of the blood cells stored at RERF of about 100 Hiroshima A-bomb survivors. The research organization plans to determine within about three years the mechanisms behind how leukemia and other diseases have developed as a result of exposure to radiation from the atomic bombing. On the same day, an external advisory committee consisting of six members, including first- and second-generation A-bomb survivors from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, held a closed online meeting to discuss their opinions about the research.
In 2020, a separate external advisory committee advised RERF to be careful in conducting genome analysis of A-bomb survivors. In 2022, the committee provided advice to RERF regarding analysis of the genomes of second-generation A-bomb survivors.
After conclusion of the advisory committee meeting that day, RERF Chairperson Ohtsura Niwa spoke at an online press conference. “Transparency is always necessary. In order to build mutual trust, it was important that RERF came to an understanding about everyone’s ideas and thoughts regarding the issue,” said Mr. Niwa.
(Originally published on June 2, 2023)
