Analysis of a Hertwig Effect Induced by the Irradiation of Rana Pipiens Sperm With Ultraviolet

Some of the underlying parameters of the classical Hertwig Effect were delineated in this study. It was shown that the irradiation of Rana pipiens sperm with an incremental regime of ultraviolet is accompanied by an initial decrease in viability followed by its recrudescence at higher doses. The most impaired survival is concomittant with aneuploid chromosomal conditions. The types of growth abnormalities are also seen to be somewhat dose-specific particularly at 8 sec where acephalic embryos seem to characterize the various aneuploid states observed. This paves the way for a detailed study of both the relationship between aneuploidy, growth anomalies and the important question of the mechanism of chromosomal loss (or removal). That more fundamental, perhaps molecular, events may underlie the Hertwig Effect is further demonstrated by the severe depression in mitotic activity that accompanies the aneuploid conditions.