Electrocardiographic Changes Produced on the Syrian Hamster (Cricetus auratus) by Diphtherial Toxins

Abstract
Limb lead ecg''s. of the golden hamster (Cricetus auratus) were taken on an amplifier instrument. The normal pattern was established. M.L.D. of acid treated toxins (p H 6.7) of Coryne-bacteriumdiphtheriae(Park No.8 strain) did not cause apparent neurotoxic and ecg. abnormalities. Alkaline-treated (pH 8.5) toxins caused paresis and marked ecg. changes which frequently preceded the paresis; animals receiving sublethal doses showed still ecg. changes after the neurological symptoms had disappeared. Ecg. examination seems to be a very sensitive method of measuring the action of certain diphtherial toxins.

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