IMMUNIZATION OF RABBITS TO DIPHTHERIA WITHOUT INJECTION USING DMSO,
Abstract
The use of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to allow substances to pass through the skin has been reported in the literature. Prior experience indicated that is was possible to stimulate antibody formation by applying an antigen dissolved in DMSO to the skin of rabbits without obtaining toxic or allergic reactions. Therefore, it was believed that DMSO might be used for immunization against bacterial antigens and allergens. This study was designed to find out whether immunity to diphtheria could be produced by using DMSO as the solvent for the toxoid and applying the mixture to the skin. The Schick test was applied to four rabbits, and the results were positive. Then 1 cubic centimeter of the DMSO diphtheria-tetanus toxoid mixture was applied daily to the shaved backs of only two rabbits for 30 days; the other two rabbits were not treated. The one treated rabbit that survived had a smaller positive reaction than on the initial Schick test and than the untreated rabbit that survived had on its final Schick test. The procedure seemed to have produced partial immunity to diphtheria. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0699575
Entities
People
- Robert E. Smith
- Sandra S. Smith