Autoradiographic techniques for the study of the distribution of radium in rat bone

This paper describes the use of autoradiography with CR39 plastic detectors in determining this distribution. The results were produced using four methods of specimen preparation for autoradiography. This multi-technique approach was necessary because it is possible that diffusion artefacts, producing spurious results, may occur when some methods of specimen preparation are employed. Emphasis has been placed on determining the most suitable method to study the distribution of radium at short times after its administration to rats. It is at this time that problems associated with tissue processing are thought to be most serious.