RAD-274: Principles of Radiation Biology

School
Health and Human Services
Division
Health Careers
Department
Radiography Technician
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Radiography
Course Number
274
Course Title
Principles of Radiation Biology
Credit Hours
2.00
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
32.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
32.00 (for 15-week classes)
Grading Method
A-E
Pre-requisites
RAD-214, RAD-228, RAD-267, and RAD-209
Catalog Course Description

This lecture course provides an overview of the principles of the interaction of radiation with living systems. Radiation effects on molecules, cells, tissues, and the body as a whole are presented. Factors affecting biological response to radiation exposure are presented, including acute and chronic effects.

Goals, Topics, and Objectives

Core Course Topics
  1. Human Biology
  2. Chemical Composition of the Cell
  3. Cell Structures
  4. Cell Reproduction
  5. Law of Bergonie and Tribondeau
  6. Physical and Biological Factors that Affect Radiosensitivity
  7. Radiation Dose - Response Relationships
  8. Molecular and Cellular Radiobiology
  9. Early Effects of Radiation
  10. Acute Radiation Syndromes
  11. Late Effects of Radiation
  12. Embryo and Fetal Effects of Radiation
Core Course Learning Objectives (Separated)

Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:

  1. Describe the structures and functions of the human cell.
  2. Differentiate between somatic and germ cells.
  3. Describe the process of cell division for both somatic and germ cells.
  4. Describe the principles of target theory.
  5. Distinguish between direct and indirect effect of radiation on cells.
  6. Describe the physical factors that affect radiation reponse.
  7. Describe the biological factors affect raditation response.
  8. Evaluate the radiosensitivity of tissue andorgans.
  9. Describe the purpose and construction of dose-response relationship curves.
  10. Identify the different types of dose-response relationship curves.
  11. Describe the stages of acute radiation syndrome and the radiation dose ranges associated with each specific syndrome.
  12. Describe local tissue effects following exposure to high doses of radiation and the dose ranges associated with each specific effect.
  13. Explain the long-term effects associated with excessive radiation exposure.
  14. Discuss the correlation between radiation exposure and malignancy.
  15. Discuss embryo and fetal effects of radiation exposure.

Assessment and Requirements

Assessment of Academic Achievement

Assessment of academic achievement will include a combination of tests, quizzes, assignments, presentations and participation.

General Course Requirements and Recommendations

Students must receive a grade of “C” or better to remain in the RAD program.

Texts

Textbook(s) to be determined through program faculty approval.

Effective Term
Fall 2019