The Study of the Mutagenetical Effects of Low Dose Level Exposure to Ionizing Radiation Using a Bioindicator System Close to Deposits of Radioactive Waste

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the biological mutational effects caused by low doses of ionizing radiation in biological samples placed close to and around deposits of radioactive waste, as a way of monitoring the environment close to these deposits. In order to do this the Tradescantia pallida, was chosen, and through micronuclei tests one could verify the sensitivity of the dose/ Response to bio-monitoring. The plants were exposed for a period of 24 hours in previously chosen sites around Brazil, within the proximity of deposits of nuclear waste. In each location, three points were chosen for bio-monitoring. The results obtained at these locations shows a small increment in the frequency of micronuclei per cell analyzed by the biosensor. From this data, a scale of mutagenesis affects from low dosage radiation was built up. The Tradescantia pallida is a good alternative in environmental bio-monitoring for tropical climates, as it is an excellent alternative tool in the studies of the effects of ionizing radiation on the environment. Keyworks: Tradescantia, low dose, deposit radioative