The Ability of Extrinsic Gonadotropin (FSH) to Function when Administered after Sublethal and Lethal X-Ray Exposures

Mature female mice were given x-ray doses ranging from 300 to 19,200 rads and treated with FSH. Sixteen to 18 hours after treatment, the mice were killed and the number of ovulations was determined. At above lethal doses, where induced ovulation was prevented, follicular ova were observed to determine the stage of maturation. X-ray exposures up to and including 12,000 rads did not prevent ovulation. Doses of 13,200 to 14,400 rads reduced the number of ovulations, and an x-ray dose of 19,200 rads prevented ovulation. There was much evidence to indicate that ovulation was prevented at 19,200 rads by damage to the estrogenproducing tissue. (auth)