Effect of Naja nigricollis (Elapidae) Venom on Some Vital Organs of Oryctolagus cuniculus

Abstract

The general objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Naja nigricollis venom on some vital organs of rabbits. To carry out this study, nine (9) rabbits including five (5) males and four (4) females were divided into two (2) control lots and one (1) experimental lot. Each control lot was composed of three (3) rabbits (males or females) while the experimental lot was comprised of two (2) males and one (1) female. The rabbits of the experimental lot were injected with Naja nigricollis venom for about 20 to 30 minutes and then after the determination of their biochemical and hematological parameters, were autopsied for the removal of organs such as heart, liver, kidneys and lungs. These organs were weighed and their appearance was studied. The results of this study showed that the heart and lungs of control male rabbits weighed more than those of females, whereas the liver and kidneys did not. Then, the cytotoxins of the Naja nigricollis venom were at the origin of gangrene which induced necrosis by an increase in their volume in a general way and degradation of the organs studied. Finally, the dose of venom injected (2 mg/Kg of body weight) could also cause hypotension, so favoring the formation of oedemas and consequently gangrene.