Is Chromosome Damage Caused by Ultraviolet Photons a Reasonable Proposal?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the energy carried by a single ultraviolet photon and proposes a damage mechanism in which the photon delivers energy to the cell nucleus, causing an increase in thermal motion and potentially damaging the chromosomes. The conversation then explores the calculation of the temperature rise using the formula for heat transfer, assuming the same density and specific heat capacity as water for a typical cell nucleus.
  • #1
kasse
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Somebody tells you that a single ultraviolet photon carries an energy equivalent of about 10
electron volts (eV, see Appendix B). You propose a damage mechanism: A photon delivers that
energy into a volume the size of the cell nucleus and heats it up; then the increased thermal
motion knocks the chromosomes apart in some way. Is this a reasonable proposal? Why or why
not?


(Heat produced) = (mechanical energy input) * (0.24 cal/J)

so that

Heat produced = 3.84E-19 cal
 
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  • #2
That's a good first step. Now you need to convert that energy into a change in temperature. To do this, you need to find the mass of a typical cell nucleus by finding the volume and assuming it has the same density as water (typically a good assumption when working with cells).
 
  • #3
Assuming a cell nucleus diameter of ca 2 micrometers and mass density equal to that of water, the mass of the nucleus is 4E-15 kg.

I'm not sure how to calculate the temperature rise. Can I simply use

[tex]
\Delta E_k = \frac{3}{2} k_B \Delta T
[/tex]

as for gases?
 
Last edited:
  • #4
You'd have to use the more general formula

q = mcΔT

Where q is the amount of heat transfered, m is the mass, c is the specific heat capacity, and ΔT is the change in temperature.
 
  • #5
Should I assume the same specific heat capacity as water too?
 
  • #6
Yes.
 

1. What is chromosome damage?

Chromosome damage refers to structural changes or abnormalities in the genetic material of an organism, specifically in the DNA molecules of its chromosomes. These changes can occur naturally or be caused by external factors such as radiation, chemicals, or errors during cell division.

2. What are the effects of chromosome damage?

The effects of chromosome damage can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent and location of the damage. In some cases, there may be no noticeable effects, while in others it can result in genetic disorders, birth defects, or even cancer.

3. How is chromosome damage detected?

Chromosome damage can be detected through various methods, including karyotyping, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH). These techniques allow scientists to visualize and analyze the structure and number of chromosomes in a cell.

4. Can chromosome damage be repaired?

Yes, some types of chromosome damage can be repaired by the cell's natural DNA repair mechanisms. However, if the damage is too severe or widespread, it may not be able to be fully repaired, leading to permanent genetic changes.

5. How can chromosome damage be prevented?

Chromosome damage can be prevented by avoiding exposure to environmental factors that can cause damage, such as radiation and certain chemicals. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can also help prevent genetic mutations that may lead to chromosome damage.

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