To clarify the toxic action of extracts of filarial worms, Setaria digitata, Setaria equina and Dirofilaria immitis, biological, chemical and pharmacological studies were performed.
1) The lethal dose of the crude fraction of S. digitata was 30 mg/kg, when given to guinea pigs intravenously.
2) The extract of S. digitata was able to divide into 3 kinds of fractions, fat, protein and polysaccharide and these fractions were not hemolytic.
3) The Shwartzman phenomenon of each fraction of filarial worms was positive except the fatty fraction. And the protein fraction was most active.
4) Relative reagin and allergic reactions were observed among Setaria digitata, S. equina and Dirofilarla immitis respectively.
5) Fractions of filarial extract were antigenetic, then it will be able to utilize to diagnostic use in future.
6) Pharmacological reactions with the extract of filarial worms were the combination of 3 kinds of action, allergic, allergy-like and toxic action of worms.
