Effects of X-irradiation on the proliferation of cells in peripheral nerve during allerian degeneration in the rat

The changes in nuclear populations in the rat sciatic nerve after crush injury have been determined, both in normal animals and at various times following X-irradiation with doses from 200 to 2,000 rads. It has been shown that definite changes are detectable at seven days after crush following 200 rads and these increase with increasing irradiation doses. At 14 days the populations after 200 and 500 rads return to normal levels. After 1,000 and 2,000 rads a marked difference from normal exists. The effects persist substantially unchanged for atleast six months.