EFFECT OF ANTIGONADOTROPHIC SERUM ON POSTIRRADIATION CHANGES IN THE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM OF FEMALE MICE1

Abstract

COMPLETE alteration of the microscopic appearance of the ovary follows exposure of the adult mouse to x-rays. Primitive ova disappear within a few days, and the more mature ova and the granulosa cells associated with them are gradually replaced by hypertrophied luteinized cells of considerable structural variability and of doubtful origin (1, 2). Subsequent gradual changes lead to the appearance of neoplastic growths of several kinds in 7 to 12 months (3, 4). It has been suggested that the impetus for this series of events is provided by increased secretion of gonadotrophic hormones which occurs as a consequence of diminished production of estrogen after irradiation (5, 6, 7).