Effects of ionizing radiations on mammalian oogenesis: a model for chemical effects

A synopsis of the available data on the radiosensitivity of female germ cells is provided, the reader being referred to recent comprehensive reviews for detailed information. The effects of ionizing radiations are considered in terms of age; germ cell stage and follicular development; type, quality, and physical factors of the exposure; and criterion chosen to assess the effect (cell killing, reproductive capacity, genetic effects, etc.). A number of conclusions are drawn which might have a bearing on studies in which the effects of chemicals and drugs on mammalian species are assessed.