[Hepatotoxicity of oriental hornet venom]

Reports of hepatic damage following multiple stings by hornets led to this study of the effects of venom sac extract (VSE) from the oriental hornet. We used in-vivo models (serum of cats following a single exposure, and of rats following repeated exposures), in-situ models (perfusion of intact livers) and in-vitro models (monolayers of fetal rat liver tissue culture). Enzyme activities were measured in serum, in perfusates, and in media of cultures, as well as in liver fractions obtained by ultracentrifugation. In cats, levels of albumin, total proteins, electrolytes, urea, cholesterol, bilirubin and blood gases were determined. Bile acids were determined in bile secreted from perfused rat livers. Histologic, histochemical and electron-microscopic studies were also performed. It is concluded that VSE is the first animal product known to possess hepatotoxic properties. The venom mainly damages hepatic cellular membranes, and mitochondria are the organelles most severely injured; cholestasis also results. The damage is partially reversible, and occurs in mammals, including man.