An extensive review of animal and human metabolism data for selected radionuclides is presented in an attempt to assess the value of animal research and subsequent extrapolation of the results to man. Since isotopes of related elements generally follow similar metabolic pathways, radionuclides of biological importance were selected and grouped by their respective chemical families. Criteria for selection included world-wide atmospheric contamination, general use in medicine and industry, contribution to the natural radiation environment and their radiotoxicity. In this review, reported results, supplemented by original work, were compiled for the following radionuclides: 13'Cs for the alkali metals; 9OSr and zzaRa for the alkaline earths;z3ePu for the lanthanides and actinides; lS1I for the halides; 210Po and aloPb for the transitional elements; and lo6Ru for the transition metals. An appraisal of biological effects and of therapeutic or preventive methods for each radionuclide is also given.Comparative studies of hazardous radionuclides in animals are necessary since they provide basic data useful for assessment of their metabolic pathways and response in man. Animal data are especially valid when values are obtained for several species from different mammalian sub-families with life spans ofdifferent duration. In certain cases, however, the data suggest species specific metabolic pathways for individual isotopes. The authors conclude that extrapolation to man from animal data is admittedly difficult and sometimes inaccurate; however, the risks in not extrapolating are unquestionably greater.

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