Neurobiology and therapeutic utility of neurotoxins targeting postsynaptic mechanisms of neuromuscular transmission
Language English Country Great Britain, England Media print-electronic
Document type Journal Article, Review
PubMed
31247153
DOI
10.1016/j.drudis.2019.06.012
PII: S1359-6446(18)30521-X
Knihovny.cz E-resources
- MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Models, Neurological MeSH
- Neuromuscular Junction physiology MeSH
- Synaptic Transmission physiology MeSH
- Neurotoxins pharmacology therapeutic use MeSH
- Post-Synaptic Density drug effects MeSH
- Animals MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Animals MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- Review MeSH
- Names of Substances
- Neurotoxins MeSH
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is the principal site for the translation of motor neurochemical signals to muscle activity. Therefore, the release and sensing machinery of acetylcholine (ACh) along with muscle contraction are two of the main targets of natural toxins and pathogens, causing paralysis. Given pharmacology and medical advances, the active ingredients of toxins that target postsynaptic mechanisms have become of major interest, showing promise as drug leads. Herein, we review key facets of prevalent toxins modulating the mechanisms of ACh sensing and generation of the postsynaptic response, with muscle contraction. We consider the correlation between their outstanding selectivity and potency plus effects on motor function, and discuss emerging data advocating their usage for the development of therapies alleviating neuromuscular dysfunction.
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