α-conotoxin-MI

Product Name:α-conotoxin-MI

CAS No:83481-45-2

Purity:95%

Molar Mass:1494

Chemical Formula:C58H88N22O17S4.

Storage:Store at -20 degrees Celsius

Sequence:GRCCHPACGKNYSC

Target:α1/β1/γ/δ nAChR

Application:

α-Conotoxin MI is a peptide toxin derived from the venom of the cone snail Conus magus. It selectively targets and inhibits nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), particularly the muscle-type receptors containing the α1/δ subunits. By blocking these receptors, α-Conotoxin MI disrupts acetylcholine-mediated neuromuscular transmission, leading to muscle paralysis. This toxin is widely used in research to study the structure and function of nAChRs, as well as to investigate neuromuscular signaling mechanisms. Due to its high specificity, α-Conotoxin MI is a valuable tool for exploring receptor pharmacology and developing potential therapeutic agents targeting conditions associated with nAChR dysfunction, such as muscle disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.

Current Research:

α-Conotoxin MI is a peptide toxin derived from the venom of the marine cone snail Conus magus. 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 MI specifically targets muscle-type nAChRs, particularly those composed of α1β1δε subunits.

Mechanism of Action

α-Conotoxin MI 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 MI 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 MI 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:

Guo, H., Deng, B., Zhao, L., Gao, Y., Zhang, X., Yang, C., … & Jiao, B. (2022). Programmed Aptamer Screening, Characterization, and Rapid Detection for α-Conotoxin MI. Toxins, 14(10), 706.