Knowra Batrachotoxin Batrachotoxin Batrachotoxin is a steroidal alkaloid neurotoxin that persistently activates voltage-gated sodium channels, disrupting electrical signaling in nerves and muscles.
Voltage-gated sodium channel : A membrane protein that opens in response to voltage changes, allowing sodium ions to cross cell membranes. Batrachotoxin binds these channels and prevents their normal inactivation.
Phyllobates : A genus of Neotropical poison frogs that includes species with exceptionally potent skin toxins. Several Phyllobates species are known for carrying batrachotoxin in their skin.
Poison dart : A small projectile coated with a toxic substance for use with a blowgun or similar weapon. Batrachotoxin-containing frog secretions have been used to poison darts.
Alkaloid : A naturally occurring nitrogen-containing organic compound, often with strong biological activity. Batrachotoxin is classified as an alkaloid because its structure contains nitrogen and has potent biological effects.
Action potential : A rapid, transient change in a cell's membrane voltage that carries signals in neurons and muscle cells. Persistent sodium entry disrupts the normal shape and propagation of these electrical signals.
Golden poison frog : A Colombian poison frog, Phyllobates terribilis, whose skin contains exceptionally potent toxins. It is the best-known natural source of batrachotoxin.
Poisoning : Illness or injury caused by exposure to a harmful substance. Batrachotoxin poisoning can disrupt cardiac, skeletal-muscle, and nervous-system function.
Steroid : An organic compound with a characteristic four-ring carbon framework. Batrachotoxin has a steroid-like carbon skeleton, the basis of its steroidal classification.
Sodium channel inactivation : The temporary closure of an activated sodium channel that stops sodium current during an action potential. Batrachotoxin impairs this shutoff, keeping channels conducting.
Chocó region : A biodiversity-rich region along Colombia's Pacific coast, extending into parts of Panama and Ecuador. Batrachotoxin-bearing frogs occur in this region's tropical forests.
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