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Bidder's organ extract induced anaphylaxis in experimental animals
1Laboratory of Toxinology and Experimental Pharmacodynamics, Department of Physiology, University of Calcutta, 92, A P C Road, Calcutta 700 009, India.
Indian Journal of Experimental Biology
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Bidder's organ extract from male toads triggers anaphylaxis in guinea pigs by releasing histamine. This finding suggests a potential defensive role for anaphylotoxins found in this organ.
Area of Science:
- Zoology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Bidder's organ (BO) is a vestigial organ found in male toads.
- Its physiological functions, particularly in defense mechanisms, remain largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential anaphylactic properties of Bidder's organ extract.
- To elucidate the role of Bidder's organ in toad defense mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Experimental animals (guinea pigs) were used to assess anaphylactic reactions.
- In vivo and in vitro assays were performed, including histamine level measurements and mast cell degranulation studies.
- Passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) was induced and evaluated.
Main Results:
- Bidder's organ extract induced significant anaphylactic reactions in guinea pigs, characterized by dyspnea and bronchoconstriction.
- The extract caused a notable increase in blood histamine levels and histamine release from lung tissue.
- In vitro studies showed that the extract degranulated peritoneal mast cells and enhanced PCA reactions, effects inhibited by disodium chromoglycate.
Conclusions:
- Bidder's organ extract contains substances that trigger anaphylaxis, likely through histamine release.
- These findings suggest that anaphylotoxins present in Bidder's organ may play a role in the toad's defense system.