Description
The application of laser-driven particle sources in their developmental stage presents unique challenges for radiobiology research. Standard methodologies are often difficult to implement when the requisite infrastructure - such as dedicated biological endstations - is not yet fully available. Consequently, researchers must develop adaptive strategies to utilize these sources effectively.
During our work with the neutron source of the National Laser-initiated Transmutation Laboratory, we evaluated radiobiological methods designed to detect radiation amage and cell death both in vitro and in vivo. Our results demonstrate that these methods are sufficiently sensitive and robust to detect dose-dependent effects, even within a relatively low dose range. Crucially, these protocols were successfully implemented despite the lack of a formal biological endstation, providing a viable framework for radiobiological research during the commissioning phases of new laser-particle facilities.
