Immunization of rabbits, rats and guinea pigs with nicotinic
acetylcholine receptor from the electric organ of T. marmorata
leads to a production of antibodies in these animais. Simultaneously
a peripheral paralysis is seen, particularly .pronounced in rabbits.
In rats the symptoms are transient. The antibody titres in rabbits
are correlated to the visible symptoms. The highest antibody titres
are found in the most affected animals. Electrophysiolog;ical,
immunological and morphological analysis indicate disturbances of
the neuromuscular function, probably on the post.synaptic site.
Thymus reactions may also be involved as a thymit has been found
in the immunized rabbits