Internalization and mechanism of action of clostridial toxins in neurons

Neurotoxicology. 2005 Oct;26(5):761-7. doi: 10.1016/j.neuro.2004.12.012. Epub 2005 May 31.

Abstract

Botulinum toxins are metalloproteases that act inside nerve terminals and block neurotransmitter release via their activity directed specifically on SNARE proteins. This review summarizes data on botulinum toxin modes of binding, sites of action, and biochemical activities. Their use in cell biology and neuroscience is considered, as well as their therapeutic utilization in human diseases characterized by hyperfunction of cholinergic terminals.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Autonomic Nervous System Diseases / drug therapy
  • Botulinum Toxins / pharmacokinetics
  • Botulinum Toxins / pharmacology*
  • Botulinum Toxins / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Neurons / drug effects*
  • Neurotoxins / pharmacology*
  • Neurotoxins / therapeutic use
  • Protein Binding
  • SNARE Proteins / drug effects
  • Tetanus Toxin / pharmacokinetics
  • Tetanus Toxin / pharmacology*
  • Tetanus Toxin / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Neurotoxins
  • SNARE Proteins
  • Tetanus Toxin
  • Botulinum Toxins