Low-dose radiation-induced risk in spermatogenesis. (2nd December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fukunaga, Hisanori; Butterworth, Karl T.; Yokoya, Akinari; Ogawa, Takehiko; Prise, Kevin M.
• Is Part Of: International journal of radiation biology. Volume 93:Number 12(2017:Dec.)
• Page Start: 1291
• Page End: 1298
• Publication Date: 2017-12-02
• Subjects: Chernobyl nuclear accident -- Fukushima nuclear accident -- low-dose radiation-induced risk -- spermatogenesis -- transgenerational effect; Radiation -- Physiological effect -- Periodicals; Radiobiology -- Periodicals; 571.45
• DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2017.1355579
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0955-3002

Abstract

Abstract: Purpose: To discuss low-dose radiation-induced risks to male fertility focusing on potential mechanisms of low-dose radiation-induced damage on spermatogenesis, epidemiological studies of environmental radiation effects on sperm parameters and transgenerational effects following exposure of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Background: Spermatogenesis produces mature male gametes, spermatozoa, which fertilize their counterpart female gametes, oocytes. The robust maintenance system of spermatogenesis is essential for genomic conservation; however, male fertility can be readily impacted by exposure to environmental, chemical and physical factors including ionizing radiation. The mammalian testes are known to be radiosensitive yet the underlying molecular mechanisms of low-dose radiation-induced risks for spermatogenesis remain unclear. Furthermore, evidence characterizing transgenerational effects following exposure of SSCs remain controversial. Conclusions: Current concerns over the possible effects of low-dose radiation exposure on spermatogenesis requires further elucidation that may be resolved comparing and integrating observed experimental and epidemiological data.