239Pu-induced early ultrastructural alterations in rats

Serious mitochondrial alterations are observed in the proximal convoluted tubular (PCT) and glomerular cells of the kidneys and in the bon marrow cells of the kidneys and in the bone marrow cells f the first and second series of experiments. The affected mitochondria are swollen, round in shape and have their cristae partially or completely destroyed. One week after injection of 1 KBq the same type of alterations are observed in the kidneys and in the bone marrow cells of the third series of experiments. Hepatocytes of animals of the first and second series reveal some cristae damages in their mitochondria associated with some cytoplasmic clarification. A few dark spots are noticed in some of the altered hepatocytes lysosomes while the other cells constituents are unaltered. Animals sacrificed 23 days after injection of 1 KBq and those injected with 5 x 200 Bq have no alteration. Moreover, no ultrastructural alteration are noticed in any of the adrenal glands and testis samples. However, there is no clear cut evidence that these lesions have radiological or chemical origin. Other actinides, neptunium and uranium behave differently. (authors)