Use of Atomic Force Microscopy in UVB-Induced Chromosome Damage Provides Important Bioinformation for Cell Damage Assessment

The chromosomal structure derived from UVB-stimulated HaCaT cells was detected by atomic force microscopy (AFM) to evaluate the effect of UVB irradiation. The results showed that the higher the UVB irradiation dose, the more the cells that had chromosome aberration. At the same time, different representative types of chromosome structural aberrations were investigated. We also revealed damage to both DNA and cells under the corresponding irradiation doses. It was found that the degree of DNA damage was directly proportional to the irradiation dose. The mechanical properties of cells were also changed after UVB irradiation, suggesting that cells experienced a series of chain reactions from inside to outside after irradiation. The high-resolution imaging of chromosome structures by AFM after UVB irradiation enables us to relate the damage between chromosomes, DNA, and cells caused by UVB irradiation and provides specific information on genetic effects.

Automated summary

This study used atomic force microscopy to detect the chromosomal structure changes in UVB-stimulated HaCaT cells. The results showed that higher UVB irradiation doses led to more cells with chromosome aberrations. Additionally, damage to both DNA and cells was observed under the corresponding irradiation doses, with the degree of DNA damage directly proportional to the irradiation dose. The mechanical properties of cells were also altered after UVB irradiation, indicating a series of chain reactions occurring in the cells.