Method for the quantitation and characterization of the cholinergic neurotoxin, monoethylcholine mustard aziridinium ion (AF64A).

Monoethylcholine aziridinium ion (AF64A), which is generated from the precursor, acetylcholine mustard hydrochloride, exerts selective neurotoxic effects against brain cholinergic neurons when injected intracerebrally. Conditions associated with optimal generation of AF64A were examined. The results indicate that hydrolysis and cyclization of the precursor are optimal at 25 degrees C with the former occurring at pH 9.0 and the latter at pH 7.3. The aziridinium ion is best stabilized at pH 7.3 at 4 degrees C.