Α-cobratoxin

Α-cobratoxin is a neurotoxin that is found in the venom of certain species of cobras. It is a member of the three-finger toxin family, which also includes other potent neurotoxins such as α-bungarotoxin and α-conotoxin.

Structure and Function

Α-cobratoxin is a protein composed of 62-74 amino acid residues, depending on the species of cobra. It has a three-fingered structure, with each "finger" being a loop of amino acids stabilized by disulfide bonds. This structure allows the toxin to bind tightly to its target, the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR).

Upon binding to the nAChR, α-cobratoxin inhibits the flow of ions across the cell membrane, preventing the transmission of nerve impulses. This results in paralysis, which can be fatal if it affects the muscles involved in breathing.

Clinical Significance

Α-cobratoxin is one of the main components of cobra venom, and is responsible for much of the venom's toxicity. It is also used in scientific research to study the structure and function of nAChRs.

Despite its toxicity, α-cobratoxin has potential therapeutic uses. For example, it has been shown to have analgesic effects in animal models of pain, and it may also have potential as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease and other conditions involving dysfunction of the nAChR.

See Also

• Cobra
• Neurotoxin
• Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor
• Venom