BPS2026 – A quantitative investigation of B lymphocyte responses to low-dose X-rays

White blood cells, particularly B lymphocytes, play a critical role in immune defense; however, they are highly sensitive to ionizing radiation. While the effects of high-dose radiation are well-documented, the biological risks of low-dose exposures from sources like diagnostic X-rays remain poorly understood. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of low-dose X-rays on B lymphocyte function, with a focus on population dynamics and cellular morphology. Human B lymphocytes were cultured and exposed to a range of low-dose X-rays. Quantitative imaging and viability assays were employed to assess the dose- and time-dependent effects on cellular structure and proliferation. To characterize the observed dose-response relationships, these experimental findings were integrated with mathematical modeling. This work aims to highlight the subtle yet significant impacts of diagnostic-level radiation on immune cells. By combining experimental data with a modeling approach, our findings will contribute to a better understanding of adaptive lymphocyte responses and help inform radiation protection guidelines.