Isolation and characterization of CvIV4: a pain inducing α-scorpion toxin.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Among scorpion species, the Buthidae produce the most deadly and painful venoms. However, little is known regarding the venom components that cause pain and their mechanism of action. Using a paw-licking assay (Mus musculus), this study compared the pain-inducing capabilities of venoms from two species of New World scorpion (Centruroides vittatus, C. exilicauda) belonging to the neurotoxin-producing family Buthidae with one species of non-neurotoxin producing scorpion (Vaejovis spinigerus) in the family Vaejovidae. A pain-inducing α-toxin (CvIV4) was isolated from the venom of C. vittatus and tested on five Na(+) channel isoforms.

Principal findings

C. vittatus and C. exilicauda venoms produced significantly more paw licking in Mus than V. spinigerus venom. CvIV4

SUBMITTER: Rowe AH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3160894 | biostudies-literature | 2011

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature