Lectin-like effect of Echis coloratus Venom on human and mouse lymphocytes

Echis coloratus venom (ECV) treated human and mouse lymphocytes were examined for synthesizing activities and morphologic alterations. RNA, DNA and protein synthesis were markedly inhibited. Human cells were less affected than mouse lymphocytes. No mitogenic activity was observed. Transmission (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed membranal damage in all types of lymphocytes and a considerable degree of agglutination. Human lymphocytes showed concentration of the microvilli at one pole of the cell. This phenomenon was considered as a capping effect. The action of ECV may be compared with the effect of the nonmitogenic lectin RCAII, known to penetrate the cells by endocytosis and to inhibit their protein synthesis.