Neutralization of the lethal activity from Bothrops atrox venom by hyperimune llama serum (Lama glama).

Abstract

To evaluate the capacity of the hyperimmune llama serum (Lama glama) to neutralize the lethal activity of Bothrops atrox venom in laboratory mice. Mean lethal dose (LD50) was calculated from a Bothrops atrox venom sample pool from Peru. The antibody titers were measured by ELISA assay; and the immune serum neutralization potency was measured by calculating the mean effective dose (ED50) during the immunization period. The venom's LD50 was 3.96 μg/g; similar to what was found in other studies about Bothrops atrox carried out in Peru. The titers of antibodies against the venom increased rapidly in the llama, demonstrating a fast immune response; however, the neutralization capacity increased slowly and required several doses and immunization reinforcements, obtaining a ED50 of 3.30 μL/g mouse and a neutralization potency of 3.6 mg/mL after 15 immunizations. The hyperimmune llama serum is able to neutralize the lethality of the Bothrops atrox venom from Peru in laboratory mice.