Monoclonal antibodies against the Androctonus australis hector scorpion neurotoxin I: characterisation and use for venom neutralisation

A series of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specific for the alpha-neurotoxin I (Aah I) from the venom of the dangerous Androctonus australis hector scor pion were obtained using carrier protein-coupled toxin, Competitive RIA, re ceptor assays and mouse toxicity tests were performed to characterise mAbs in terms of affinity and neutralisation. Cross-reactivity studies and two-s ite ELISA results allowed some classification of mAbs into three groups. On e mAb, 9C2, was particularly interesting since it recognised the parent tox in I with a K-D of 0.15 nM and was also reactive with toxins of the same im munological group, Its ability to neutralist the toxic effect of the parent toxin and the venom fraction has been investigated. This anti-Aah I mAb 9C 2, associated,vith anti-Aah II mAb 4C1, provides a valuable tool to neutral ise the toxicity of the venom. (C) 1999 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.