2 N. M. SISSAKIAN 



theoretical and practical problems. The use of atomic energy has 

 stimnlated the rapid development of a new biological discipline radio- 

 biology. 



This science aims to establish the laws of the action of radiation on 

 living organisms. It is connected with the solution of essential tasks in 

 most complex fields of human activity, medicine, agriculture and in- 

 dustry. The use of this energy is connected Avith the discovery of the 

 most effective methods of radiobiology, the breeding of new species of 

 plants and strains of useful micro-organisms. One of the most important 

 tasks of this new science is, no doubt, that of protecting those who 

 come into direct contact with this agent, and their j^rogeny, from the 

 damage of ionizing radiation. 



To solve these problems, it is first of all necessary to know the initial 

 stages of the reaction developing from the interaction of a living 

 organism with ionizing radiation. A deep scientific knowledge of the 

 processes initiated by every kind of radiation is indispensable. These 

 problems require the close co-operation of experts in various branches 

 of science: physicists, biologists and physicians. Radiobiology is a 

 border discipline: formed on the cross-roads of jjhysics, chemistry, 

 biology and medicine, it makes wide use of approaches and techniques 

 jieculiar to these sciences. 



The present symposium is devoted to the important problems of the 

 primary action of ionizing radiations on biological substrata and on the 

 cell. I am deeply convinced that as a result of the work of the present 

 meeting of eminent scientists, at which so many outstanding radio- 

 biologists are present, we shall be able to sum up year-long researches 

 on these problems and to map out new paths along which radiobiology 

 will develop. The development of radiobiology is most closely connected 

 with the very important problems of our time, the protection of man- 

 kind from the damaging effect of the production and testing of nuclear 

 weapons. Radiobiologists are aware, more than anybody else of the 

 damage caused by even a minimal dose of radiation not only to the 

 present generation, but to the future ones as well. 



Therefore, the voice of radiobiologists, warning of the danger of 

 nuclear tests is specially important in the strengthening of peace on 

 earth and in the establishment and development of friendship among 

 nations. I should like to wish success to the work of the members of 

 the present symposium and to express the hope that it Axill enhance 

 friendshij) and creative co-operation between the scientists of our 

 various countries. 



