Production of Clostridium botulinum Type E Antitoxin

Document Type : Original Research

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Abstract

  Aims: The Botulinum toxin is known as the most potent toxin. In addition to the therapeutic applications in medicine (Botox) , this toxin is also a threat in biological warfare and bioterrorism. Preparing the antibody against the Clostridium botulinum toxin type A and G, despite the application in identifying strains of Clostridium botulinum toxigenic plays an important role in the treatment of poisoning caused by this toxin. The purpose of this study was to produce Clostridium botulinum type E antitoxin.   Methods: For immunization of lab animals (chicken, mouse and rabbit),at first, the toxoid was injected with Freund's complete adjuvant either subcutaneously or intramuscularly and in the first to third booster injection ,it was injected with Freund's incomplete adjuvant. At the end or intervals of injections, blood sampling was done and the produced antibody’s titer was measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or ELISA method.   Results: After each booster injection, a considerable increase in serum antibody titer of lab animals was seen. The titer of Clostridium botulinum type E toxin antibodies in the serum of chicken, rabbit and mouse increased to more than 1:3200. After purification of antibody, less than 0.156 microgram of the purified mouse antibody and less than 0.312 microgram of rabbit purified antibody were able to detect the toxin. Conclusion: After the injection of toxoid, antibody increase in the body of lab animal. Production of specific antitoxin for detection or diagnosis of botulism, based on reaction between antigen and antibody and also for treatment of poisoning is necessary.  

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