Spider Neurotoxins as Tools for the Investigation of Glutamate Receptors

Abstract

Progress in the investigation of glutamate receptors structure and function requires the use of specific chemical tools affecting the responses to glutamate and other excitatory amino acids. Several low molecular weight spider and wasp toxins may be used as valuable tools for identification of certain subtypes of glutamate receptors and the study of their function. Some results obtained on different preparations with the help of argiotoxin 636 (argiopine), neurotoxin isolated from the venom Argiope lobata are reviewed in the present paper.