α-conotoxin-GID

Product Name:α-conotoxin-GID

CAS No:547741-78-6

Purity:95%

Molar Mass:2186.39

Chemical Formula:C84H132N30O31S4

Storage:Store at -20 degrees Celsius

Sequence:IRD-{Gla}-CCSNPACRVNN-{Hyp}-HVC

Target:nAChR

Application:

α-Conotoxin GID is a peptide toxin isolated from the venom of the cone snail Conus geographus. It selectively inhibits specific subtypes of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), particularly targeting the α3β2 and α4β2 subtypes, which are involved in modulating neurotransmission in the central and peripheral nervous systems. By blocking these receptors, α-Conotoxin GID interferes with cholinergic signaling, making it a valuable tool for studying the role of nAChRs in neurological processes such as cognition, pain, and addiction. Researchers utilize α-Conotoxin GID to explore potential therapeutic applications for conditions like neurodegenerative diseases, pain disorders, and nicotine addiction.

Current Research:

α-Conotoxin GID is a peptide toxin derived from the venom of the marine cone snail Conus geographus. This 14-amino-acid peptide is a member of the α-conotoxin family, known for their ability to selectively inhibit nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). α-Conotoxin GID exhibits high affinity for neuronal nAChR subtypes, particularly α4β2 and α7 receptors.

Structural Characteristics

The peptide sequence of α-Conotoxin GID is:

ECCNPACGRHYSC*NH₂
This sequence includes two disulfide bonds, forming a characteristic α-conotoxin fold that is crucial for its receptor-binding specificity.

Mechanism of Action

α-Conotoxin GID functions as a competitive antagonist at neuronal nAChRs. By binding to the receptor's ligand-binding sites, it prevents acetylcholine from activating the receptor, thereby inhibiting synaptic transmission. This blockade can modulate neuronal signaling, highlighting its potential utility in studying neurological processes.

Research Applications

Due to its specificity for neuronal nAChRs, α-Conotoxin GID serves as a valuable tool in neuropharmacological research:

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

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

Conclusion

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

Reference:

Banerjee, J., Yongye, A. B., Chang, Y. P., Gyanda, R., Medina‐Franco, J. L., & Armishaw, C. J. (2014). Design and synthesis of α‐conotoxin GID analogues as selective α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonists. Peptide Science, 102(1), 78-87.