The dogs living near the Chernobyl radiation zone are helping scientists with useful insights into the long-term effects of radiation exposure on genetic diversity. The dogs are believed to be descendants of abandoned pets abandoned during the 1986 nuclear disaster. Because their exposure to varying levels of radiation can present distinct genetic differences between populations. Researchers have managed to collect over 300 preserved blood samples from these dogs and have commenced the study to analyze the impact of ionizing radiation on their health, including increased rates of cataracts and other developmental abnormalities. The dogs’ unique genetic diversity makes them ideal … Continue reading Chernobyl’s Wild Dogs Give Insight Into Long-Term Radiation Exposure & Genetics