Radiation induced abnormalities in Rhode Island chick embryo

Fertilized eggs of Rhode Island were exposed before incubation at different dose levels of gamma radiation 660, 910, 1040 and 1170 R. The dose level 1170 R was found lethal to developing embryos. The dose 1040 R was inhibitory to 75% of the eggs, and exerted retardation in the remaining 25%. The dose 910 R showed varying effects; inhibition in 50%, retardation in development in 37 1/2% and deterioration in the remaining 12 1/2% of the irradiated eggs. The dose 660 R permitted hatching in 16 2/3% of the eggs; retardation in development of 66 2/3% (embryos aged between 2 to 12 days) and complete inhibition in the remaining 16 2/3%. The dose 660 R induced certain deformities shown in hatched chick; paralysis of the legs, unsymmetrical wings, twisted trunk and crossbeak. The same dose level effected remarkable lengthening of the intestine and rectal caeca reaching about four folds those of the control. The results are discussed in view of the relevant literature