[Histochemical analysis of the multiple effect of organophosphorous compounds (Wolfatox, DFP) in rats (author's...

In vivo effects of Wofatox and DFP has been studied by light and electron microscopic histochemical methods in the central nervous system, in cardiac and striated muscles of rats. Singleintraperitoneal injection of Wofatox and DFP LD50 resulted in complete inhibition of the histochemically detectable acetyIcholinesterase (AChE) activity in the central nervous system. Various striated muscles exhibit different degrees of sensitivity towards inhibitors, neither can the enzyme activity of some motor end plates be completely inhibited. In addition to AChE inhibition in striated muscles, organophosphorous compounds induce also subacute myopathic changes. In the case of a lethal intoxication, ultra-structural alterations suggesting myocardial lesion can be observed.