PNNL

Abstract

We have designed and constructed a low-cost, variable energy low-LET electron microbeam that utilizes energetic electrons to mimic radiation damage produced from y- and X -rays. The microbeam can access lower regions of the LET spectra, analogous to that produced by a 60Co source. The device has two operating modes, as a conventional microbeam targeting single cells or sub-populations of cells or as a pseudo broad beam source allowing for direct comparison with conventional sources. By varying the incident electron energy, the target cells can be selectively exposed to different parts of the energetic electron tracks, including the track ends.