Alpha-Latrotoxin - Toxicokinetics

Toxicokinetics

α-LTX affects motor nerve endings and endocrine cells. No major enzymatic activities are associated. Instead, the toxin can form pores in the lipid membranes and induce Ca2+ ion flow. The onset of effects by intoxication can occur with a lag-period of 1 to 10 minutes, even at subnanomolar concentration levels. At nanomolar concentrations, bursts of neurotransmitter release occur. After the bursts, prolonged periods of steady-state release take effect.

Stimulation of small end-plate action potentials are initially induced by the neurotoxin, while later on the neurotransmission is blocked at the neuromuscular junction. This is due to depletion of synaptic vesicle contents.