RENEB Inter-Laboratory Comparison 2021: The Gene Expression Assay

• DOI: 10.1667/rade-22-00206.1
• Publication Date: 2023-04-14T13:38:09Z
• Authors: M. Abend; S.A. Amundson; C. Badie; K. Brzoska; R. Kriehuber; J. Lacombe; M. Lopez-Riego; K. Lumniczky; D. Endesfelder; G. O'Brien; S. Doucha-Senf; S.A. Ghandhi; R. Hargitai; E. Kis; L. Lundholm; D. Oskamp; P. Ostheim; S. Schüle; D. Schwanke; I. Shuryak; C. Siebenwith; M. Unverricht-Yeboah; A. Wojcik; J. Yang; F. Zenhausern; M. Port
• Keywords: Biodosimetry

Early and high-throughput individual dose estimates are essential following large-scale radiation exposure events. In the context of Running European Network for Biodosimetry Physical Dosimetry (RENEB) 2021 exercise, gene expression assays were conducted their corresponding performance dose-assessment is presented in this publication. Three blinded, coded whole blood samples from healthy donors exposed to 0, 1.2 3.5 Gy X-ray doses (240 kVp, 1 Gy/min) using source Yxlon. These exposures correspond clinically relevant groups unexposed, low (no severe acute health effects expected) high individuals (requiring early intensive medical care). Samples sent eight teams estimation identification groups. For quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) microarray analyses, lysed, stored at 20°C shipped on wet ice. RNA isolations run each laboratory according locally established protocols. The time-to-result both rough more precise later reports has been documented where possible. Accuracy was calculated as difference between estimated reference all (summed absolute difference, SAD) by determining number correctly reported that defined ±0.5 <2.5 ±1.0 >3 Gy, recommended triage dosimetry. We also examined allocation clinically/diagnostically Altogether, 105 teams, earliest report times categories 5 h 9 h, respectively. coefficient variation 85% 436 qRT-PCR measurements did not exceed 10%. One team systematically deviated several-fold estimates, these outliers excluded further analysis. Teams employing a combination several genes generated about two-times lower median SADs (0.8 Gy) compared based single only (1.7 Gy). When considering uncertainty intervals dosimetry, together 100% 0 50% samples. order (from lowest highest) three (unexposed, highest exposure) chosen or combinations. Furthermore, if no an >3.5 it always allocated unexposed highly group, while (1.2 sometimes could be discriminated (3.5 All used FDXR 78.1% correct one predictors. Still, accuracy differed considerably among with team's SAD (0.5 being comparable genes. Using workflow team, we performed additional experiments after exercise residual cDNA six team. processed similarly intention improve when same workflow. Re-evaluated improved half worsened others. conclusion, inter-laboratory comparison enabled (1) technical problems corrections preparations future events, (2) confirmed capabilities expression, (3) emphasized different biodosimetry approaches either combination, (4) indicated some improvements similar methodology, which requires research final conclusion (5) underlined applicability samples, supporting management radiological nuclear scenarios.