Effects of ionizing radiation on the antioxidant system of microscopic fungi with radioadaptive properties found in the Chernobyl exclusion zone.

Some microscopic fungi found in the area of the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone appear to have unique radioadaptive properties associated with their capability to respond positively to the effects of ionizing irradiation. On the one hand, this capability can be used potentially in bio-remediation technologies, and on the other hand, it requires additional, more thorough studies to identify its underlying mechanisms. Practically, no data are currently available on mechanisms for implementation of these radioadaptive properties by microscopic fungi.

The influence of ionizing radiation on spore germination and emergent hyphal growth response reactions of microfungi.

The accident at the Chernobyl Atomic Energy Station resulted in radiation contamination of large tracts of land and particularly the reactor building itself. Sustained exposure of microfungi to radiation appears to have resulted in formerly unknown adaptive features, such as directed growth of fungi to sources of ionizing radiation. We evaluate here spore germination and subsequent emergent hyphal growth of microfungi in the presence of pure gamma or mixed beta and gamma radiation of fungi isolated from a range of long term background radiation levels.