Lifetime and trans-generational epigenetic impacts of early-life radiation in a model insect, Acheta domesticus: Modulation by radioprotective and methylation-enhancing diets

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About 90% of animal species impacted by environmental radiation exposure are insects. Rapid development and short lives make crickets ideal for assessing lifetime and trans-generational impacts of radiation. Juveniles and adults eat the same food so protective diets can be tested across the entire lifetime in just a few months. Genes determine how animals develop and function. A process called "DNA methylation" determines whether certain genes are activated or shut off, and radiation exposure can permanently alter DNA methylation. Consequently, a single exposure to radiation in early life can change the form and function of animals via altering the on/off status of genes. These changes can be either beneficial or harmful to the organism. The idea that "what does not kill you makes you stronger" applies to radiation and an entire science called "hormesis." High doses of radiation are harmful, but small doses of radiation can actually be beneficial. We want to explore which radiation doses yield subsequent benefits or harm across the lifespan and the next generation of crickets (e.g., growth, reproduction, aging rates, and resistance to stress). We are particularly interested in knowing whether radiation exposure early in life can improve protection against subsequent irradiation. We also want to know if early radiation can protect against other types of stress. We seek to know how DNA methylation may contribute to this, and whether resistance to radiation can be passed on to the next generation. We also designed two dietary supplements that should have radio-protective qualities. We will test whether these diets reduce damage associated with high-dose radiation. We also wish to examine whether these diets may strengthen the benefits of low-dose radiation in later life and in the next-generation. These findings would apply to diverse aspects of radiation biology useful to the nuclear power industry and relevant to environmental impacts of radiation contamination. If the diets are protective against radiation damage they may be of benefit to astronauts, nuclear industry workers or those accidentally exposed to radiation.