Duration of Spermatogenesis in the Mouse

Abstract

A RISE in frequency of dominant lethals in matings at successive intervals during the first few weeks after irradiation of male mice has been observed by Brenneke¹ and Hertwig² for X-rays, and by Russell et al.³ for neutrons. Thus Bateman's⁴ results with exposure to 200 r. of X-rays confirm the earlier observations. Bateman's⁴ interpretation of his data and the subsequent discussions by Auerbach⁵ and Sirlin and Edwards⁶ concern the determination of the stage in which gametes available at successive weeks were irradiated. As emphasized by Auerbach⁵, and now accepted by Bateman⁷, Bateman's results⁴ do not contradict the essentially parallel response of mice and Drosophila that had been partially demonstrated in the earlier work. However, in spite of the attention this subject now has received, several points need clarification, especially in relation to the description and timing of normal Spermatogenesis in mice.