latrotoxin
Latrotoxin is a class of neurotoxic proteins produced by venomous spiders, primarily those in the genus Latrodectus, commonly known as widow spiders. The most studied and potent of these toxins is alpha-latrotoxin, the primary component responsible for the characteristic symptoms of latrodectism, the envenomation syndrome caused by widow spider bites.
Alpha-latrotoxin exerts its effects by binding to receptors on the presynaptic terminal of neurons. Upon binding,
While the exact mechanism is still under investigation, it is understood that latrotoxin disrupts the normal
Antivenoms are available for severe latrodectism and are effective in neutralizing the toxin's effects. However, treatment