Alpha-bungarotoxin Protein
Snake venoms contain a multitude of biologically active toxins that work together to overpower and kill prey, one of which is alpha-bungarotoxin.
Protein Facts
• Alpha-bungarotoxin is a deadly venom produced by a snake called the
‘Many-banded Krait’ from South-East Asia.
• The snake venom kills the prey by paralysing their muscles.
• Other venomous snakes, including cobras and sea snakes, have similar
proteins that work in the same way.
• 30 milligrams of venom, less than a tenth of a teaspoon, is enough to kill a
100 kg human in 24 hours.
• Anti-venom is a treatment for snake bites; it attaches to the protein and
stops it from working which can save the lives of snake bite victims.
How does this protein relate to me?
Alpha-bungarotoxin, from the Many-banded krait, blocks signals between nerve and muscle cells and is used by scientists to study these signals. Along with other snake venoms, alpha-bungarotoxin has been studied as potential treatments for a range of conditions including arthritis, thrombosis and even some types of cancer. Research is still ongoing in this field.
