EFFECTS OF NEONATAL GAMMA IRRADIATION ON HORMONE PRODUCTION AND SPERMATOGENESIS IN THE TESTIS OF THE ADULT PIG

Abstract

The morphogenesis of the Leydig cells and germ cells of the pig during the first 130 days after birth is described in relation to estimates of cellular radiosensitivity. Boars aged 1 to 30 days were exposed totally to 200 r of gamma rays and the effects on the Leydig cells and germ cells were determined before and after puberty. The number of gonocytes (primitive germ cells) declined to 10% of the control values by Day 30 after irradiation, but at Day 60 some recovery was evident. Postpubertally, an average of 23% of the seminiferous tubules seen in transverse section in the irradiated testes exhibited radiation damage which was presumably permanent. Average sperm production was 47% of the control value. Increased numbers of crenated nuclei and a delay in morphogenesis were noted among the Leydig cells before puberty. Urinary steroid output of the irradiated boars equalled or exceeded that of the non-irradiated boars and it is assumed that 200 r of gamma rays effected no permanent damage among the Leydig cells.