Robustoxin

Robustoxin is a potent neurotoxic protein that is found in the venom of the Sydney funnel-web spider (Atrax robustus). It is one of the most toxic spider venoms known to man, and can cause serious illness or death in humans.

Structure and Function

Robustoxin is a polypeptide consisting of 42 amino acid residues. It is a member of the δ-atracotoxin family of toxins, which are known to affect the nervous system by slowing the inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels. This results in a prolonged depolarization of the nerve cell membrane, leading to spontaneous repetitive firing and the release of neurotransmitters.

Toxicity

The toxicity of robustoxin is primarily due to its effect on the nervous system. Symptoms of envenomation include profuse sweating, salivation, and muscle spasms, followed by hypertension, tachycardia, and pulmonary edema. In severe cases, envenomation can lead to death due to respiratory failure.

Treatment

The only effective treatment for robustoxin envenomation is the administration of antivenom, which is produced by immunizing rabbits with a non-lethal dose of the toxin. The antivenom contains antibodies that neutralize the toxin, preventing it from binding to sodium channels and causing further damage.

See Also

• Sydney funnel-web spider
• Venom
• Neurotoxin
• Antivenom

Robustoxin Resources
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