Melittin-induced changes in Na and Cl movements across the skin and cornea (in vitro) of the toad Bufo marinus.

Melittin, from bee venom, increases short-circuit current (Isc) across the skin and cornea of toads. In skin this reflects a rise in the influx of Na and is inhibited by meclofenamic acid (inhibits prostaglandin synthetase). In corneas with melittin on the inside the rise in Isc is inhibited by bumetanide (inhibits Cl transport) and meclofenamic acid. Melittin on the tear side of the cornea causes a biphasic change in Isc, and a rise in all undirectional fluxes of Na and Cl. This effect was not changed by bumetanide or meclofenamic acid. Melittin apparently has two types of effects, one mediated by prostaglandins while the other is more direct.