An in vitro study on effect of Pimelea plant extract on pulmonary vein smooth muscle.

K. Mason. An in vitro study on effect of Pimelea plant extract on pulmonary vein smooth muscle. Toxicon 14, 175-178, 1976.-A direct contraction of pulmonary vein smooth muscle to Pimelea plant extract was demonstrated in vitro. This effect is discussed with regard to theories on the pathogenesis of St. George disease, and it is concluded that these results support Clark's hypothesis which is based on a contraction of smooth muscle. The potential of this preparation as a bioassay of the toxin(s) is discussed.