Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 11, 2026

A High-throughput-compatible FRET-based Platform for Identification and Characterization of Botulinum Neurotoxin Light Chain Modulators
Published on: December 27, 2013
Differential response of pig masseter to botulinum neurotoxin serotypes a and b
Zi-Jun Liu1, Katherine L Rafferty1, Wenmin Ye1,2
1Department of Orthodontics, University of Washington, Box 357446, Seattle, WA, 98195-7446, USA.
Introduction:
Pigs respond to direct administration of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), although they are resistant to botulism. The human masseter is frequently targeted for BoNT therapy. We aimed to understand how BoNT affects chewing by injecting porcine masseters.
Methods:
One masseter of minipigs was injected with BoNT serotype A or B at doses comparable to those used in humans. Masticatory function was evaluated electromyographically. Muscle force was measured during tetany. Four weeks after injection, strain gauges affixed to the mandible assessed bone strain during chewing. Masseter mass and fiber diameter were measured after euthanasia.
Results:
BoNT-A had no measurable effect. In contrast, BoNT-B reduced electrical activity and muscle force, producing substantial asymmetry between injected and uninjected muscles.
Conclusions:
The pig masseter is highly resistant to direct injection of BoNT-A, but it is affected by BoNT-B.
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