Influence of ionizing radiation on Cobra (Naja haje) and Cerastes cerastes venoms: Toxicological and immunological aspects.

Abstract

The effect of gamma irradiation (15 KGy) on the Cobra Naja haje and Cerastes cerastes venoms toxicity and immunogenicity was evaluated. Irradiated venoms were at least 28.1% less toxic than non-irradiated venoms. However the antigenic response was not changed as judged by the capacity of irradiated venoms to react with polyvalent antivenom horse serum. The immunodiffusion method showed identity between irradiated and non-irradiated samples. The effect of gamma radiation on some venom enzymes and venoms profile was studied. Proteolytic, phospholipase A2 and hemorrhagic activities were inhibited by irradiation. Irradiation with gamma rays resulted in structural changes in the venoms as indicated by the changes in their molecular weights. The results indicated that irradiation of toxic protein-using suitable dose-can promote significant detoxification but still retaining many of the original antigenic and immuonological properties of native venom.