The Sound of Evolution
Ziconotide
Mechanism of action:
Ziconotide is an N-type calcium channel blocker and a synthetic peptide derived from the toxin of the cone snail Conus magus. It selectively binds to N-type calcium channels located on the presynaptic membrane of primary sensory neurons in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, thereby blocking action potential-induced calcium influx. Once calcium influx is inhibited, the release of pain-related neurotransmitters is reduced, including glutamate, substance P, and calcitonin gene-related peptide.
Reference(s):
1. Skov MJ et al. (2007). Nonclinical safety of ziconotide: an intrathecal analgesic of a new pharmaceutical class. Int J Toxicol.
2. Miljanich GP et al. (2004). Ziconotide: neuronal calcium channel blocker for treating severe chronic pain. Curr Med Chem.
3. McGivern JG et al. (2007). Ziconotide: a review of its pharmacology and use in the treatment of pain. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat.