cardiotoxin

Cardiotoxin is a term used to describe a group of cytotoxins, or toxic substances, that specifically affect the heart muscle. These toxins are often found in the venom of certain animals, most notably snakes belonging to the Elapidae family, such as cobras and kraits. Cardiotoxins can also be found in other venomous creatures, though snake venom is the most studied source.

The primary mechanism of action for cardiotoxins involves disrupting the normal function of cardiac cells. They typically bind to specific receptors on the cell membrane, leading to changes in ion permeability. This disruption can cause uncontrolled influx or efflux of ions like sodium, potassium, and calcium, which are crucial for maintaining the electrical activity and contractility of the heart. The consequence of this disruption is often a decrease in the heart's pumping ability, leading to arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and potentially death.

The severity of cardiotoxin effects depends on various factors, including the dose, the specific type of cardiotoxin, and the species affected. While they are a significant component of snake venom and a major contributor to the lethality of certain bites, research into cardiotoxins is also of interest for potential therapeutic applications. Their ability to selectively target and induce cell death has led to investigations into their use in cancer research and treatment, as they might be engineered to target cancerous cells while sparing healthy ones.