Do all radiation injuries primarily result from radiation-induced chemical changes in complex molecules present in living cells?

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Radiation injuries fundamentally stem from the interactions of radiation with biological tissues, leading to chemical changes in vital cellular structures, particularly DNA. When ionizing radiation passes through living cells, it can dislodge electrons from atoms, resulting in ionization. This ionization can create free radicals and other reactive species that can damage complex molecules, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.

The primary mechanism of radiation injury involves the alteration of these crucial biomolecules, which can disrupt normal cellular processes and lead to cell death or malignant transformation. DNA damage, for instance, is particularly significant, as it can cause mutations, chromosomal aberrations, and ultimately contribute to cancer development.

Therefore, it is accurate to state that radiation injuries primarily result from these radiation-induced chemical changes in complex molecules within living cells, explaining why the option asserting this as true is correct.

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