Apamin has been used: As a selective inhibitor of small conductance (SKCa) channels in HEK cells.To inhibit endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDHF) mediated responses.To block small-conductance Ca2-activated K current (ISK) in electrophysiological studies in hyperstriatum ventrale, pars caudalis (HVc) neurons.
Biochem/physiol Actions
Apamin is a neurotoxin and is cytotoxic to erythrocytes. Exposure to apamin leads to hypermotility and convulsions.
The only polypeptide neurotoxin that is known to pass the blood-brain barrier. Blocks ATP-type Ca+2-activated K+ channels.
General description
Apamin is a bee venom component and is strongly basic in nature. It has 18 amino acid residues and two disulphide bonds.