Neuromuscular transmission after immunization against acetylcholine receptors

Abstract

Injection of acetylcholine receptors from the electric organ of Torpedo into rabbits or rats, produces antibodies which bind to acetylcholine receptors in the muscle membrane or in solution. Binding of antibody to the receptors results in diminished acetylcholine sensitivity of the muscle fibres, reduced amplitude of miniature end-plate potentials, block of neuromuscular transmission and a decrease in the ability of the receptors to bind $\alpha $-bungarotoxin. Antibodies raised against acetylcholine receptors from Torpedo cross-react with acetylcholine receptors from rabbit, rat and frog muscle.