Problems and solutions in the estimation of genetic risks from radiation and chemicals

This chapter focuses on the methods of measuring genetic risks, the rationale for their choice, problems and solutions in interpreting the results, gaps in knowledge, and future possibilities for better estimation of risks. Reports on extensive investigations with mice on the effects of various physical and biological factors, such as dose rate, sex and cell stage, on radiation-induced mutation which provide an evaluation of the genetics hazards of radiation in man. Supplements the studies on mutation frequency with investigations on the phenotypic effects of mutations in mice, particularly anatomical disorders of the skeleton, which allow an estimation of the degree of human handicap associated with the occurrence of parallel defects in man. Finds that results on transmitted mutations in mice indicate a poor correlation with mutation induction in nonmammalian organisms. Proposes that further investigation on mice is needed, not only on the screening for mutagenicity of other chemicals, but also on the nature of the mutagenic action of ethylnitrosourea