Botulinal neurotoxins: revival of an old killer

Curr Opin Pharmacol. 2005 Jun;5(3):274-9. doi: 10.1016/j.coph.2004.12.006.

Abstract

Botulinal neurotoxins (BoNTs) produced by anaerobic bacteria of the genus Clostridium are the most toxic proteins known, with mouse LD(50) values in the range of 1-5 ng/kg. They are responsible for the pathophysiology of botulism. BoNTs are metalloproteinases that enter peripheral cholinergic nerve terminals, where they cleave one or two of the three core proteins of the neuroexocytosis apparatus and elicit persistent but reversible inhibition of neurotransmitter release. Their specificity of action has made them useful therapeutic agents for many human syndromes caused by hyperactivity of cholinergic nerve terminals. Their range of clinical applications is continuously growing, and BoNT/A is being used extensively as a pharmaco-cosmetic.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Dyskinesia Agents / therapeutic use
  • Anti-Dyskinesia Agents / toxicity
  • Botulinum Toxins* / therapeutic use
  • Botulinum Toxins* / toxicity
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / adverse effects*
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / therapeutic use
  • Botulism / physiopathology*
  • Cosmetic Techniques
  • Humans
  • Nerve Endings / drug effects*
  • Neuromuscular Agents / adverse effects*
  • Neuromuscular Agents / therapeutic use
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Anti-Dyskinesia Agents
  • Neuromuscular Agents
  • Botulinum Toxins
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A