Other · Conotoxin peptide
alpha-Conotoxin GI
Also known as α-Conotoxin GI
A 13-amino acid peptide from cone snail venom, α-Conotoxin GI is a selective antagonist of muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptors for research.
- Length
- 13 amino acids
- Half-life
- Not well characterised
- Mechanism
- This peptide acts as a potent and selective competitive antagonist of the muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR).
- Studied in
- It is a standard tool in electrophysiology and pharmacology to isolate and study the function of nAChRs at the neuromuscular junction.
About alpha-Conotoxin GI
alpha-Conotoxin GI is a neurotoxic peptide originally isolated from the venom of the marine cone snail, *Conus geographus*. Its structure is defined by a 13-amino acid sequence constrained by two disulfide bridges, which create a rigid conformation essential for its biological activity. This structural rigidity allows it to bind with high affinity and specificity to its molecular target.
The peptide's primary mechanism involves the competitive inhibition of muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), specifically the α1β1δε/γ subtype. This makes it an invaluable tool in neuroscience research for distinguishing between different nAChR subtypes. In laboratory settings, it is used in receptor binding assays, to block synaptic transmission in neuromuscular preparations, and to investigate the biophysical properties of ion channels.
Laboratory notes
- The two disulfide bonds (Cys2-Cys7 and Cys3-Cys13) are critical for maintaining the peptide's active conformation.
- Exhibits high selectivity for muscle-type nAChRs over most neuronal nAChR subtypes.
- Due to its potency, careful concentration calculations are required for in vitro experiments to avoid off-target effects.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about alpha-Conotoxin GI
What is the primary molecular target of α-Conotoxin GI?
Its primary target is the muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) found at the neuromuscular junction.
How should lyophilised α-Conotoxin GI be reconstituted?
It is typically reconstituted in sterile, deionised water or a suitable aqueous buffer to a stock concentration. Avoid vigorous vortexing to prevent aggregation.
Is this peptide useful for studying CNS receptors?
Generally, no. Its value lies in its high selectivity for peripheral, muscle-type nAChRs, making it less suitable for studying the majority of central nervous system nAChRs.
Is alpha-Conotoxin GI for human use?
No. It is supplied strictly for in-vitro laboratory research and is not for human or animal consumption.
Related research peptides
All products are sold for laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption, not a medicine, not for diagnosing, treating or preventing any condition.