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The Sound of Evolution
Tubocurarine
Mechanism of action:
Tubocurarine is a non-depolarizing neuromuscular blocking agent and a plant-derived bis-quaternary ammonium alkaloid. It binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the motor end-plate, preventing acetylcholine from binding to the receptor. As a result, sodium channels do not open, the end-plate potential cannot reach the threshold for an action potential, and muscle fibers are therefore unable to contract.
Reference(s):
1. Bowman WC et al. (2006). Neuromuscular block. Br J Pharmacol.
2. Singla D et al. (2010). BIAdb: a curated database of benzylisoquinoline alkaloids. BMC Pharmacol.
3. Matteo RS et al. (1984). Distribution, elimination, and action of d-tubocurarine in neonates, infants, children, and adults. Anesth Analg.
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