TETRODOTOXIN CITRATE

Description

TTX is a potent marine-derived neurotoxin that reversibly inhibits the inward sodium current through voltage-activated sodium (Na_v) channels, blocking nerve and muscle action potentials. It inhibits the Na_v current in frog muscle and squid axon with IC₅₀ values of 4.1 and 5.2 nM, respectively, and binds to rat brain membranes with a K_d value of 1.8 nM. TTX was used in Hodgkin and Huxley’s classic experiments to elucidate the physical biology of nerve action potentials and remains an indispensible neuroscience tool to pharmacologically dissect the contribution of the Na_v current in excitable neurons and to rationally design compounds for the treatment of neuropathic pain. This citrate-stabilized form of TTX is designed for improved solubility over pure TTX , which is insoluble in water and most organic solvents. This preparation of TTX citrate consists of TTX that has been dissolved in a citrate solution and then lyophilized.

Description

Tetrodotoxin is one of the most poisonous substances known—it’s 100 times more lethal than KCN. Its name comes from Tetraodontiformes, the order of fish that includes pufferfish (fugu), porcupinefish, and triggerfish. Tetrodotoxin is produced by bacteria in the organs of these fish and other marine animals. The total synthesis of racemic tetrodotoxin was achieved by Y. Kishi and co-workers in 1972. In 2003, M. Isobe et al. and J. Du Bois et al. reported asymmetric total syntheses by very different methods.

The Uses of TETRODOTOXIN CITRATE

Tetrodotoxin Citrate is a highly selective, reversible sodium channel blocker.

Biological Activity

Highly selective, reversible sodium channel blocker; citrate salt of tetrodotoxin.

Storage

Store at -20°C