ENVS 2210 Lecture Notes - Hyperallergic, Melittin, Ovipositor
9 Dec 2022
School
Department
Course
Professor
Document Summary
Evolved sting to defend nutritious resources sought by predators. >100 000 individuals stung annually in us and canada. Enzymes destroy cells, proteins cause pain and induce allergic rxn. Produced in venom glands, stored in poison sac. 3 types of reactions: normal, allergic, toxic. Stinger removal (scrape off with nail), cold compresses. Can be local or systemic (usually local) Systemic (anaphylactic)- life threatening, can cause loss of consciousness, massive swelling, suffocation, respiratory failure, heart failure (anaphylaxis) Immunization for hyperallergic people (venom harvested sold to pharmaceutical industry) Occurs because of too much venom by being stung 100s of bees. Susceptibility varies on health, weight and age. Bee venom is powerful allergen (antigen) that activates immune system. Immune system reacts by producing antibodies (immunoglobulins) These antibodies bind to antigens and neutralize proteins. First contact with antigen= production of igg and/or ige. Igg binds and neutralizes venom in blood stream.
