Biological effects of radiation on crop genetics in Iraq

¹ College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kerbala, Karbala, Iraq
² Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Iraq, Baghdad, Iraq.
³ University of Kufa, Al-Najaf, Iraq
⁴ National Centre for Population and Demographic Studies, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq

¹ Corresponding author: alis.alrammhi@uokufa.edu.iq

Abstract

This study explores the biological and genetic impacts of radiation-based techniques applied to agricultural development in Iraq. Emphasis is placed on the use of ionizing radiation for inducing genetic mutations, improving crop traits, and enhancing plant resistance to environmental stresses. Recent experimental results from Iraqi research centers are analyzed within the framework of international cooperation and mutation breeding programs supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Radiation exposure at controlled doses has been shown to generate beneficial heritable variations in several crop species, contributing to higher yield potential and improved stress tolerance. The study discusses the underlying biological mechanisms of radiation-induced mutagenesis, including DNA alteration, repair pathways, and gene expression modulation. Findings highlight the importance of integrating radiation biology with modern biotechnological approaches to accelerate sustainable crop improvement and strengthen food security under Iraq’s climatic and ecological conditions.