Omega-Atracotoxin

Omega-Atracotoxin is a type of neurotoxin produced by the Sydney funnel-web spider (Atrax robustus). It is one of the most potent toxins in the world, capable of causing severe illness or death in humans and other mammals.

Structure and Function

Omega-Atracotoxin is a polypeptide consisting of 42 amino acids. It has a compact, stable structure due to the presence of three disulfide bonds. The toxin binds to voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve cells, preventing them from closing. This results in a continuous influx of sodium ions, leading to a prolonged depolarization of the nerve cell membrane and continuous firing of the neuron. This causes the symptoms of envenomation, including severe pain, muscle spasms, and potentially life-threatening changes in heart rate and blood pressure.

Clinical Significance

Envenomation by the Sydney funnel-web spider, resulting in the introduction of Omega-Atracotoxin into the victim's body, is a medical emergency. Symptoms can appear within minutes and may include severe pain, sweating, salivation, and an irregular heartbeat. If left untreated, envenomation can lead to cardiac arrest and death.

Treatment involves the administration of antivenom, which contains antibodies that bind to the toxin and neutralize it. The antivenom for Sydney funnel-web spider bites is produced by the Australian Reptile Park through a process of milking the spiders for their venom and then injecting it into rabbits to produce the necessary antibodies.

Research and Therapeutic Potential

Research into Omega-Atracotoxin and other spider toxins is ongoing, with the aim of understanding their mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic uses. For example, the ability of these toxins to selectively target certain types of ion channels could be harnessed to develop new drugs for conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, and cardiac arrhythmias.

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