Huwentoxin XVI

Product Name:Huwentoxin XVI

CAS No:1600543-88-1

Purity:95%

Molar Mass:4437.13

Chemical Formula:C196H292N50O56S6

Storage:Store at -20 degrees Celsius

Sequence:CIGEGVPCDENDPRCCSGLVCLKPTLHGIWYKSYYCYKK

Target:N-type calcium channel

Application:

Huwentoxin XVI is a peptide toxin derived from the venom of the Chinese bird spider Ornithoctonus huwena. It is known for its selective inhibition of certain voltage-gated potassium channels, particularly those involved in the nervous system. Huwentoxin XVI has been studied for its potential to block potassium channels that regulate neuronal excitability, making it an important tool in neuropharmacology research. Its ability to modulate ion channel activity can also provide insights into potential therapeutic approaches for conditions related to nerve signal transmission, such as pain disorders or epilepsy.

Current Research:

Huwentoxin-XVI (HWTX-XVI) is a peptide toxin isolated from the venom of the Chinese tarantula Ornithoctonus huwena. Comprising 39 amino acids, including six cysteine residues forming three disulfide bridges, HWTX-XVI exhibits a compact and stable structure characteristic of spider toxins targeting ion channels.
Mechanism of Action
HWTX-XVI functions as a potent and selective antagonist of N-type voltage-gated calcium channels (CaV2.2). By binding to these channels, it inhibits calcium ion influx, thereby modulating neurotransmitter release and neuronal excitability. Electrophysiological studies have demonstrated that HWTX-XVI inhibits N-type calcium channels in rat dorsal root ganglion cells with an IC?? of approximately 60 nM.
Analgesic Properties
The inhibition of N-type calcium channels by HWTX-XVI has been associated with significant analgesic effects. In animal models, intraperitoneal injection of HWTX-XVI resulted in notable pain relief in formalin-induced inflammatory pain assays and increased withdrawal latency in hot plate tests. Additionally, intramuscular administration of the toxin reduced mechanical allodynia induced by incisional injury, indicating its potential as a therapeutic agent for pain management.
Selectivity and Reversibility
HWTX-XVI exhibits high selectivity for N-type calcium channels, with minimal effects on T-type calcium channels, potassium channels, or sodium channels. Notably, its inhibitory action is highly reversible, distinguishing it from other N-type calcium channel blockers like ??-conotoxins, which often have prolonged effects.
Research Applications
Due to its specificity and reversible action, HWTX-XVI serves as a valuable tool in neurophysiological research. It aids in elucidating the roles of N-type calcium channels in neurotransmission and pain pathways, and in exploring potential therapeutic interventions for conditions involving these channels.
Conclusion
Huwentoxin-XVI is a potent, selective, and reversible inhibitor of N-type calcium channels, offering significant potential in pain management and as a research tool for studying calcium channel physiology.

Reference:

Deng, M., Luo, X., Xiao, Y., Sun, Z., Jiang, L., Liu, Z., ... & Liang, S. (2014). Huwentoxin-XVI, an analgesic, highly reversible mammalian N-type calcium channel antagonist from Chinese tarantula Ornithoctonus huwena. Neuropharmacology, 79, 657-667.