Role of DNA deletion length in mutation and cell survival

A model based on the assumption that malignant transformation, mutation, chromosome aberration, and reproductive death of cells are all manifestations of radiation induced deletions in the DNA of the cell; and that the size of the deletion in relation to the spacing of essential genes determines the consequences of that deletion, is presented. It is assumed that two independent types of potentially lethal lesions can result in DNA deletions, and that the relative numbers of these types of damage is dependent on radiation quality. The repair of the damage reduces the length of a deletion, but does not always eliminate it. The predictions of this model are in good agreement with a wide variety of experimental evidence. 19 refs., 3 figs.