STUDIES IN CHEMOTHERAPY

This investigation demonstrates the existence of a definite neutralizing power of leuco-dyes for toxins, very decided in vitro and quite distinct in vivo. The experiments can only be regarded as preliminary. They require to be extended to larger animals and the dosage and method of administration worked out more exactly. Also other leuco compounds should be brought within the field of investigation.

Despite their incompleteness, the results would seem to indicate a possible basis for the local treatment of diphtheria, tetanus and snake-bite.

The work described was carried out in the laboratories of King's College and Guy's Hospital (Pharmacological Department) and we desire to express our appreciation of the interest and assistance rendered us by Professor Sir William Simpson and Professor R. Tanner Hewlett of the former Institution and by Dr. Nathan Mutch and Mr. Ralph Thompson of the latter. We are indebted to the British Dyestuffs Corporation for the supply of the leuco-compounds employed and desire to thank Mr. S. C. Bate of this firm who kindly prepared for us the Leuco Sulphato Green and Leuco Sulphato Violet.

A portion of the cost of this investigation has been defrayed by a grant from the Science Committee of the British Medical Association.