Effects of X-radiation on the Testes of the Lizard, Uta Stansburiana Stejnegeri

Summary

Lizards of the species Uta stansburiana stejnegeri were given whole-body doses of x-rays ranging from 250 r to 3000 r, and the testes of normal and irradiated lizards were studied. Spermatogonia appear to be the germinal element most sensitive to x-irradiation. Temporary sterility is produced by a whole-body dose of 500 r. Degenerating multi-nucleate giant cells and cellular disorganization were most pronounced in animals kept in confined conditions at sub-normal temperatures. Depletion of spermatogonia may be due to inhibition of mitosis in these cells as no definitely necrotic spermatogonia were observed. Sertoli cells appear to be highly resistant to x-irradiation; no pathological forms of these cells were found. The formation of spermatozoa from spermatogonia required no less than 12 nor more than 24 days in Uta. The LD50/30 for Uta is between 1000 r and 1200 r.