New perspective in ion channel indicates treatment potential

New perspective in ion channel indicates treatment potential
A computer modelling of toxin and channel interaction

Scientists researching a toxin extracted from the venom of the honey bee have used this to inform the design of new treatments to alleviate the symptoms of conditions such as muscular dystrophy, depression and dementia.

Apamin, a natural peptide toxin found in bee venom, is known for its ability to block a type of that enables a high-speed and selective flow of out of nerves. The blocking of these channels in the brain causes nerves to become hyperexcitable, producing improved learning, which could have implications for the treatment of dementia and depression. In addition, injection of apamin improves the symptoms experienced by sufferers of myotonic (MD).

Until now, the exact mechanism by which apamin acts was poorly understood.  In a study published in the , two teams from the University of Bristol and the University of Liege in Belgium describe the results of their joint work on these KCa2 potassium ion channels, also called SK channels. 

Using computer models and a genetic approach, the researchers were able to pinpoint exactly where apamin binds to block the channel.  To block ion channels, most molecules act as a plug at their external mouth.  The researchers have discovered that apamin binds away from the channel pore, and causes the shape of the channel to change through an ‘allosteric’ mechanism, resulting in block.

This discovery could accelerate research into the design of new SK channel blockers which could imitate the action of apamin, to target SK channels in neural and muscular conditions such as , depression or MD. 

Professor Neil Marrion, from the University of Bristol’s Physiology & Pharmacology department, said: “Drug design depends on knowing the target.  Our findings have provided a new approach to designing a therapeutic agent that could help with the treatment of a number of conditions.”

Professor Vincent Seutin, from the GIGA Neurosciences at the University of Ličge, added: “I am very enthusiastic about the results of our study and I believe that, with the help of this piece of information, the targeting of these channels for the development of future drugs has been made easier.”

Citation: New perspective in ion channel indicates treatment potential (2010, July 9) retrieved 29 March 2024 from https://phys.org/news/2010-07-perspective-ion-channel-treatment-potential.html
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