The Radiation Effects Research Foundation (RERF) held an explanatory session titled “Genome study of A-bomb survivors and their children” during its Open House events at both its Hiroshima and Nagasaki laboratories.

At the explanatory session, Dr. Arikuni Uchimura, Deputy Chief of the Department of Molecular Biosciences and the study’s principal investigator, explained the progress and future plans for the research project, which utilizes genome analysis and was initiated in December of last year.

The purpose of the study is to accumulate fundamental scientific knowledge to better understand whether radiation exposure experienced by parents can affect DNA sequences (genomes) in their children, with the findings expected to contribute to future research in this field. RERF is moving ahead with the study with utmost care, placing the highest priority on the wishes of research participants as it adheres to the highest scientific and ethical standards, including strict protection of personal information. The session also introduced efforts being carried out in collaboration with research participants to help explain the study to the public in a clear and accessible manner.

The explanatory session was held on August 6 in Hiroshima and August 8 in Nagasaki, attracting many participants. During the question-and-answer sessions, attendees raised a variety of questions about the study, providing a valuable opportunity for RERF to hear directly from the public about their interests and perspectives. RERF will continue to provide updates on the progress of this research project.

For more information about the study, please visit the link below.
Trio Study Using Genome Analysis – Radiation Effects Research Foundation (RERF)