Genetic effects of testicular incorporation of 137Cs in mice.

A comparative estimation of the frequencies of genetic disorders induced in germ cells of male mice by a single or long-term exposure to incorporated 137Cs or to external gamma-radiation has been carried out. The frequencies of dominant lethal mutations induced by a single exposure were similar with both types of radiation. In stem cell spermatogonia the frequency of reciprocal translocations was significantly lower in the case of single 137Cs administration than upon external gamma-radiation. Upon long-term administration the genetic efficiencies of both types of radiation were similar.