Preparation and biological activity of some complexes of trypanocidal phenanthridinium compounds

Abstract

Abstract The preparation and in vivo testing is described of complexes of some phenanthridinium trypanocides with polysaccharides and polymeric materials possessing strong anionic groups. The laminarin sulphate complex of Prothidium bromide [2-amino-7-(2-amino-6-methyl-4-pyrimidylamino)-9-p-aminophenylphenanthridium 10,1′-dimethobromide] shows enhanced prophylactic activity in mice challenged with Trypanosoma congolense (F.N.). When tested in cattle in East Africa the complex produced less local reaction at the site of injection but prophylactic activity was similar to that obtained with the equivalent dose of Prothidium bromide itself. Possible reasons for these results are discussed.