The effects of specific antibody fragments on the 'irreversible' neurotoxicity induced by Brown snake (Pseudonaja) venom.
Brown snake (Pseudonaja) venom has been reported to produce 'irreversible' post synaptic neurotoxicity (Harris & Maltin, 1981; Barnett et al., 1980). A murine phrenic nerve/diaphragm preparation was used to study the neurotoxic effects of this venom and pre- and post-synaptic components were distinguished by varying the temperature and frequency of nerve stimulation. There were no myotoxic effects and the neurotoxicity proved irreversible by washing alone. The effects of a new Fab based ovine antivenom have been investigated and proved able to produce a complete, rapid (< 1 h) reversal of the neurotoxicity induced by Brown snake venom. A reversal was also possible when the antivenom addition was delayed for a further 60 min. We believe that this is the first time such a reversal has been shown.
Jones
R G
RG
Department of Chemical Pathology, The Medical College of St. Bartholomew's Hospital, London.
Lee
L
L
Landon
J
J
D000818:Animals; D000918:Antibody Specificity / Q000276:immunology; D003964:Diaphragm / Q000187:drug effects / Q000294:innervation / Q000503:physiopathology; D007140:Immunoglobulin Fab Fragments / Q000276:immunology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D009119:Muscle Contraction / Q000187:drug effects; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy*; D009500:Neutralization Tests; D010791:Phrenic Nerve / Q000187:drug effects / Q000503:physiopathology; D012756:Sheep; D012910:Snake Venoms / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000276:immunology; D013997:Time Factors
D007140:Immunoglobulin Fab Fragments; D012910:Snake Venoms