Journal Published Online: 01 July 1980
Volume 25, Issue 3

A Study of the Myocardial Depressant Factor and Its Relative Influence in Drug/Alcohol Mortality

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

A shock factor, a low molecular weight peptide, has been isolated from postmortem blood. High levels of this peptide, which depresses the myocardium, were seen in cases where drug overdose or alcoholism, or both, were the cause of death. An elevated myocardial depressant factor (MDF) level was also demonstrated in a fire victim and a patient in cardiogenic shock. The peptide analysis was accomplished by using an isolated cat papillary muscle followed by paper chromatographic confirmation. Postmortem electrolytes, alcohol, and various toxic agents were eliminated as causes of myocardial depression in the isolated cat papillary muscle assay. The presence of elevated MDF levels may be significant in the overall death process.

Author Information

Manning, TJ
Nassau County Medical Examiner's Office, East Meadow, N.Y.
Williams, LE
Nassau County Medical Center, East Meadow, N.Y.
Lynch, VD
St. John's University, Jamaica, N.Y.
Bidanset, JH
St. John's University, Jamaica, N.Y.
Drake, W
Nassau County Medical Examiner's Office, East Meadow, N.Y.
Lukash, L
Nassau County Medical Examiner's Office, East Meadow, N.Y.
Pages: 14
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS11257J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11257J