α-conotoxin-GI

Product Name:α-conotoxin-GI

CAS No:76862-65-2

Purity:95%

Molar Mass:1437.61

Chemical Formula:C55H80N20O18S4

Storage:Store at -20 degrees Celsius

Sequence:ECCNPACGRHYSC

Application:

α-Conotoxin GI is a peptide toxin isolated from the venom of the marine cone snail Conus geographus. It specifically targets and inhibits muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), particularly those containing the α1 subunit. By blocking these receptors, α-Conotoxin GI interferes with acetylcholine binding and disrupts neuromuscular transmission, leading to muscle paralysis. This toxin is widely used in research to study the function and pharmacology of nAChRs, as well as in exploring therapeutic interventions for conditions involving nAChR dysfunction. Due to its high specificity for muscle-type receptors, α-Conotoxin GI plays a critical role in advancing the understanding of neuromuscular processes and receptor-ligand interactions.

Current Research:

α-Conotoxin GI is a peptide toxin isolated from the venom of the marine cone snail Conus geographus. This 13-amino-acid peptide is a member of the α-conotoxin family, known for their ability to selectively inhibit nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). α-Conotoxin GI specifically targets muscle-type nAChRs, particularly those composed of α1β1γδ subunits.

Mechanism of Action

α-Conotoxin GI functions as a competitive antagonist at muscle-type nAChRs. By binding to the receptor's ligand-binding sites, it prevents acetylcholine from activating the receptor, thereby inhibiting synaptic transmission at the neuromuscular junction. This blockade can lead to muscle paralysis, highlighting its potential utility in studying neuromuscular physiology.

Research Applications

Due to its specificity for muscle-type nAChRs, α-Conotoxin GI serves as a valuable tool in neuropharmacological research:

Receptor Characterization: It aids in elucidating the structural and functional dynamics of muscle-type nAChRs, particularly in distinguishing between different receptor subtypes.

Drug Development: Insights into its interaction with nAChRs contribute to the design of novel therapeutics for neuromuscular disorders and conditions involving dysfunctional cholinergic signaling.

Conclusion

α-Conotoxin GI is a potent and selective inhibitor of muscle-type nAChRs, offering significant insights into neuromuscular transmission and potential therapeutic avenues for related disorders. Its applications extend from fundamental research to the development of novel pharmacological agents.

Reference:

Yu, S., Yang, B., Yan, L., & Dai, Q. (2017). Sensitive Detection of α-Conotoxin GI in Human Plasma Using a Solid-Phase Extraction Column and LC-MS/MS. Toxins, 9(8), 235.