ω-Conotoxin-SO3

Product Name:ω-Conotoxin-SO3

Purity:95%

Molar Mass:2561

Chemical Formula:C100H165N35O32S6

Storage:Store at -20 degrees Celsius

Sequence:CKAAGKPCSRIAYNCCTGSCRSGKC

Target:CaV2.2 Ca2+ channels

Application:

ω-Conotoxin SO3 is a peptide toxin isolated from the venom of the marine cone snail Conus striatus. This toxin specifically targets and blocks N-type voltage-gated calcium channels (Cav2.2), which play a critical role in neurotransmitter release at nerve terminals. By inhibiting these channels, ω-Conotoxin SO3 prevents calcium influx, reducing synaptic transmission and modulating pain signaling pathways. Due to its high specificity, this toxin is widely used in neurophysiological research to study calcium channel function and to explore its therapeutic potential in the development of novel analgesics, particularly for treating chronic pain and neuropathic conditions. Its ability to block Cav2.2 channels makes it a valuable tool for investigating the modulation of synaptic activity and neurochemical release.

Current Research:

ω-Conotoxin SO3 is a 25-amino-acid peptide toxin isolated from the venom of the marine cone snail Conus striatus. It functions as a potent and selective antagonist of N-type voltage-sensitive calcium channels (CaV2.2), which are crucial in neurotransmitter release and pain signal transmission.

Structural Characteristics

ω-Conotoxin SO3 belongs to the O-superfamily of conotoxins, characterized by a conserved cysteine framework forming three disulfide bridges. This structure stabilizes the peptide and facilitates its specific binding to target calcium channels. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) studies have revealed that ω-Conotoxin SO3 adopts a three-dimensional conformation stabilized by a short triple-stranded antiparallel β-sheet and four turns.

Mechanism of Action

By binding to the α1B subunit of N-type calcium channels, ω-Conotoxin SO3 inhibits calcium ion influx into presynaptic neurons. This action reduces the release of neurotransmitters, thereby modulating synaptic transmission and attenuating pain signaling pathways.

Analgesic Properties

In rodent models, ω-Conotoxin SO3 has demonstrated significant analgesic effects in both acute and chronic pain scenarios. Notably, it exhibits fewer adverse effects compared to ω-Conotoxin MVIIA (Ziconotide), a clinically approved N-type calcium channel blocker.

Research Applications

Due to its specificity and potency, ω-Conotoxin SO3 is a valuable tool in neurophysiological research:

Ion Channel Studies: It aids in elucidating the roles of N-type calcium channels in neuronal function and pain mechanisms.

Drug Development: Its unique properties make it a template for designing novel analgesics targeting N-type calcium channels.

Handling and Storage

ω-Conotoxin SO3 is typically supplied as a lyophilized powder. For optimal stability, it should be stored at -20°C, protected from light and moisture. Upon reconstitution, aliquots should be prepared to avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, which can degrade the peptide.

Conclusion

ω-Conotoxin SO3 is a potent and selective inhibitor of N-type voltage-sensitive calcium channels, offering significant insights into pain modulation and presenting promising avenues for the development of targeted analgesic therapies.

Reference:

Yan, Y., Tu, G., Luo, X., Dai, Q., Huang, P., & Zhang, R. (2003). Three-dimensional solution structure of ω-conotoxin SO3 determined by 1 H NMR. Chinese Science Bulletin, 48, 1097-1102.