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 scorpion were obtained using carrier protein-coupled toxin, Competitive RIA, receptor assays and mouse toxicity tests were performed to characterise mAbs in terms of affinity and neutralisation. Cross-reactivity studies and two-site ELISA results allowed some classification of mAbs into three groups. One mAb, 9C2, was particularly interesting since it recognised the parent toxin I with a K-D of 0.15 nM and was also reactive with toxins of the same immunological group, Its ability to neutralist the toxic effect of the parent toxin and the venom fraction has been investigated. This anti-Aah I mAb 9C2, associated,vith anti-Aah II mAb 4C1, provides a valuable tool to neutralise the toxicity of the venom. (C) 1999 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.