Ionizing radiation and the conceptus: neurophysiologic effects of prenatal X-radiation on offspring
Jensh, R.P.
Annals of Clinical and Laboratory Science 15(3): 185-194
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0091-7370 PMID: 3994290 Document Number: 260732
The various types of radiation and the units of measure used in radiation biology are discussed. The concept of the radiation-induced teratogenic triad of growth retardation, malformation and death is presented. A discussion of stage- and dose-dependent sensitivity to prenatal irradiation is followed by an introduction to behavioral teratology as a new interdisciplinary area of investigation, emphasizing postnatal psychophysiologic analyses of the effects of prenatal exposure. Rats were exposed to an acute dosage level of 0.6 Gy (60 RAD) X-radiation on day 9 or 17 of gestation. The neonates were given 5 neonatal reflex tests, observed for the appearance of 4 physiologic markers, and, as young adults, subjected to 3 of 6 behavioral tests. The irradiation offspring exhibited retarded postnatal growth and altered reflex and behavioral activity. Apparently irradiation at a dosage level which does not cause overt morphologic malformations at birth does result in altered postnatal growth and psychophysiologic development.