β-Pompilidotoxin

Product Name:β-Pompilidotoxin

CAS No:216064-36-7

Purity:95%

Molar Mass:1557.9

Chemical Formula:C71H124N22O17

Storage:Store at -20 degrees Celsius

Sequence:RIKIGLFDQLSRL

Application:

β-Pompilidotoxin is a potent neurotoxin derived from the venom of certain wasp species, particularly those in the Anoplius and Batozonellus genera. This toxin specifically targets voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve cells, prolonging the duration of action potentials and thereby enhancing neurotransmitter release. Due to its unique mode of action, β-Pompilidotoxin is used in neurobiological research to study the mechanisms of sodium channel function, synaptic transmission, and the excitability of neurons. Its effects on sodium channels make it a valuable tool for investigating the pathophysiology of neurological disorders and for developing potential therapeutic agents that target ion channel dysfunctions.

Current Research:

β-Pompilidotoxin (β-PMTX) is a neurotoxic peptide isolated from the venom of spider wasps (“Pompilidae”). Its unique mechanism of action involves selective modulation of voltage-gated sodium channels (Nav), making it a valuable tool for neuroscience and drug discovery research. β-PMTX specifically prolongs action potentials in excitable cells, leading to enhanced neurotransmitter release. This distinct pharmacological property underscores its potential for studying sodium channelopathies and for therapeutic applications targeting Nav-associated disorders.

Research Applications:
Current research explores β-PMTX’s capacity to elucidate the molecular underpinnings of neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission. Studies have demonstrated its utility in probing the dynamics of Nav1.2 and Nav1.6, subtypes highly expressed in the central nervous system. By modulating these channels, β-PMTX facilitates the investigation of epilepsy, chronic pain, and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, its role in distinguishing Nav channel subtypes contributes to a more precise understanding of channelopathies.

Drug Discovery Potential:
The specificity of β-PMTX for sodium channels positions it as a promising lead compound for drug development. Nav channels are implicated in a range of conditions, including cardiac arrhythmias and neuropathic pain. Modifying the β-PMTX structure could yield novel therapeutics with enhanced selectivity and reduced toxicity. Additionally, β-PMTX serves as a molecular probe to validate Nav channel-targeted drug candidates, accelerating the screening and optimization phases in drug discovery pipelines.

Conclusion:
As research advances, β-PMTX continues to provide critical insights into sodium channel physiology and pathology. Its integration into drug discovery frameworks highlights its dual role as a research tool and a foundation for therapeutic innovation. Future studies may unlock its full potential in developing targeted treatments for Nav channel-related disorders, reinforcing its significance in translational neuroscience.

Reference:

Grieco, T. M., & Raman, I. M. (2004). Production of resurgent current in NaV1. 6-null Purkinje neurons by slowing sodium channel inactivation with β-pompilidotoxin. Journal of Neuroscience, 24(1), 35-42.