An Examination of Regenerating Hepatic Tissue Following In Vivo Exposure to R. F. Radiation

In order to elucidate possible genetic consequences of exposure to radio frequency radiation, adult male rats have been continuously irradiated for up to 44 hours after they have undergone a partial hepatectomy. The experiment, which involves monitoring mitotic activity and chromosomal aberrations in the regenerating liver, was chosen because of its demonstrated sensitivity to ionizing radiation damage. The effects of both pulsed and cw irradiation at 13.12 MHz were investigated. All experiments were conducted with radiation power levels just below the heating threshold. An extensive comparison of the results for control and experimental animals has failed to reveal any statistically significant differences in mitotic activity or the number of chromosomal aberrations. In addition, histologic and electron microscopic observations have revealed no evidence of tissue damage. Results of the experiment are discussed vis-a-vis previously reported in vitro experiments. (Author)