Beta-amanitin

Beta-amanitin is a potent and deadly toxin found in several species of the mushroom genus Amanita, most notably the death cap (Amanita phalloides) and the destroying angels (Amanita virosa and Amanita bisporigera). It is one of the most toxic of all the amatoxins, a group of closely related toxic compounds found in these deadly mushrooms.

Structure and Biochemistry

Beta-amanitin is a cyclic peptide consisting of eight amino acids. Its molecular structure includes a tryptathionine bridge, a sulfoxide, and hydroxyl groups which are essential for its toxic effects. The molecule inhibits RNA polymerase II, a critical enzyme in the synthesis of mRNA, which is crucial for DNA transcription and protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells. By inhibiting this enzyme, beta-amanitin effectively halts cellular metabolism, leading to cell death.

Toxicology

The toxicity of beta-amanitin is profound, with the compound being deadly in extremely low doses. The lethal dose for humans is typically around 0.1 mg/kg body weight. After ingestion, the toxin is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to severe and often fatal liver and kidney damage. Symptoms of poisoning by beta-amanitin include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, hypoglycemia, dehydration, liver failure, and, in many cases, death. These symptoms can take 6 to 24 hours to appear, which often delays treatment and increases the risk of severe outcomes.

Clinical Significance

Due to its potent action and lethal nature, beta-amanitin is a significant concern in medical toxicology. Poisoning typically occurs after individuals mistakenly consume toxic Amanita mushrooms, mistaking them for edible varieties. There is no known antidote for beta-amanitin poisoning, making prevention (through education and avoidance of wild mushrooms) and early aggressive supportive care the only strategies for managing exposure.

Research Applications

In scientific research, beta-amanitin is used to study the transcriptional machinery in cells, as its mechanism of action provides a method to inhibit transcription selectively. This can be useful in experiments designed to understand gene expression and the role of RNA polymerase II in various cellular processes.

See Also

• Mycotoxin
• Amanita phalloides
• RNA polymerase II
• Liver failure