Changes in the ovary of the mouse following exposure to X-rays. Part I.—Irradiation at three weeks old

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Abstract
The ovaries of 47 mice, exposed to a full sterility dose of X-rays at 3 weeks old, are described. The estrous histories of most of these animals are recorded elsewhere. Irradiation is followed by degeneration of all oocytes. The membrana granulosa and the theca interna, in those cases where it is differentiated, also degenerate. Finally, the old follicles are represented by only small cavities containing zona pellucida remnants. In a few cases the larger follicles either become filled with blood and form cysts, or the cells of the theca interna and membrana granulosa grow and, invading the antrum, form a corpus luteum atreticum. These corpora lutea atretica persist indefinitely, but are shown to have no influence on the estrous cycle. Simultaneously with these changes the old inter-folhcular tissue atrophies, and the germinal epithelium proliferates epithelial cords. In the adult animals the ovaries are composed almost entirely of this 1st proliferation. It tends to become like luteal tissue in some cases. In many cases a 2nd proliferation from the germinal epithelium follows. This consists of small, spherical, or shghtly elongated cords. These cords resemble the so-called spermatic cords described in the ovaries of inbred rabbits by Hammond, and of free-martin cattle by others. They also resemble structures described by many as anovular follicles. The cords of the 2nd proliferation appear to have no effect on the estrous cycle.

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