T-2 toxin can cause vasoconstriction in an in vitro bovine ear perfusion system

An in vitro bovine ear perfusion system was used to examine the effect of T-2 toxin on peripheral vasculature. T-2 toxin caused a dose-related increase in the perfusion pressure, with an apparent threshold concentration of 1 X 10(-5) M. The effect of the toxin was observed irrespective of the presence of either histamine or norepinephrine in the system. The presence of known histaminic or noradrenergic antagonists did not affect the response to the toxin. Once the vessel was exposed to T-2 toxin, the response to histamine or norepinephrine was decreased.