The Effect of 2-Mev Whole-Body X-Irradiation on Primates

Abstract

Because man will soon be exposed to the radiations of space, it is imperative that accurate biological data be obtained. To this end, experiments involving the irradiation of primates with electrons, protons, and heavier particles are under way in our laboratory. Before these results may be adequately evaluated, data from animals irradiated with the familiar electromagnetic radiations must be available. Unfortunately, the published data are not extensive, and the response of the primate to radiation, especially from the standpoint of histopathology, has not been completely documented in animals that are free of endemic colony diseases. Also, since our laboratory conditions are most likely different from those of other laboratories, a study utilizing both a well-understood quality of ionizing radiation plus experimental animals that are unquestionably in good health was necessary to provide data for comparison with the results of the proton and other particle irradiations.