Conotoxins and their regulatory considerations

Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2014 Oct;70(1):197-202. doi: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2014.06.027. Epub 2014 Jul 8.

Abstract

Venom derived peptides from marine cone snails, conotoxins, have demonstrated unique pharmacological targeting properties that have been pivotal in advancing medical research. The awareness of their true toxic origins and potent pharmacological nature is emphasized by their 'select agent' classification by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We briefly introduce the biochemical and pharmacological aspects of conotoxins, highlighting current advancements into their biological engineering, and provide details to the present regulations that govern their use in research.

Keywords: Conotoxins; Cyclic peptides; Peptides; Regulation; Select agents.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biomedical Research / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Conotoxins / classification
  • Conotoxins / pharmacology
  • Conotoxins / therapeutic use*
  • Conus Snail / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • United States

Substances

  • Conotoxins