Localisation of plutonium in mouse testes

Abstract

THE plutonium isotope ²³⁹Pu is a known carcinogen but its ability to produce genetic damage has not been so well investigated. The radionuclide is found in gonads after intravenous injection into humans¹ and after administration to animals by various routes². Retention of ²³⁹Pu in the gonads is prolonged and the genetic effects there have been estimated on the basis of average dose in the gonads³. Inhomogeneity of distribution of plutonium within gonads has, however, been noted⁴ giving rise to the possibility that some cells may receive a greater radiation dose than others. No investigations of the effects of this inhomogeneity upon dose-rate to the cells involved in gametogenesis have been reported. Here we report briefly that a non-uniform distribution of ²³⁹Pu in the testis results in increased radiation of the spermatogonial stem-cells.