Other · Peptide toxin
kappa-Conotoxin PVIIA
Also known as κ-Conotoxin PVIIA
A 27-amino-acid conotoxin that selectively blocks α3β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, used as a tool in receptor pharmacology research.
- Length
- 27 amino acids
- Half-life
- Not well characterised
- Mechanism
- Acts as a competitive antagonist of neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), with selectivity for the α3β2 subtype.
- Studied in
- Employed in neuropharmacology to functionally dissect the roles of α3β2 nAChRs in neurotransmission and to characterise receptor subtype diversity.
About kappa-Conotoxin PVIIA
Kappa-conotoxin PVIIA is a 27-amino-acid peptide toxin isolated from the venom of the cone snail *Conus purpurascens*. Its rigid three-dimensional structure, stabilised by two disulfide bridges, is critical for its specific receptor interaction. It belongs to the κ-conotoxin family, a structural class of conopeptides that target nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
This toxin functions as a competitive antagonist at neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs). It demonstrates marked selectivity for subtypes containing α3 and β2 subunits, particularly the α3β2 combination, which is prevalent in autonomic ganglia. Its ability to discriminate between different nAChR subtypes makes it a valuable research tool for characterising the properties of these specific receptors in native and recombinant systems.
Laboratory notes
- The integrity of the two disulfide bonds is essential for maintaining the active conformation and receptor binding.
- Use low-protein-binding labware to minimise loss of peptide from stock and working solutions.
- Potency can be assessed using electrophysiological techniques like two-electrode voltage clamp on *Xenopus* oocytes expressing the target α3β2 receptor.
Storage and reconstitution basics: storage guide.
Questions about kappa-Conotoxin PVIIA
What type of receptor does κ-Conotoxin PVIIA target?
It targets neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), showing high selectivity for the α3β2 subtype.
Is this peptide an agonist or antagonist?
It is a competitive antagonist. It binds to the receptor's agonist binding site but does not activate it, thereby blocking function.
Why is this toxin useful in research?
Its selectivity for the α3β2 nAChR subtype allows researchers to isolate and study the function of these specific receptors in complex biological systems.
Is kappa-Conotoxin PVIIA 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.