Structure and Mode of Action of the Shark Repellent Pardaxin
Abstract
Pardaxin, a marine neurotoxic polypeptide, isolated from the secretions of the flatfish Pardachirus marmoratus or synthesized by the solid phase method is a single chain, acidic amphipathic polypeptide. Pardaxin is secreted via secretory ducts to the water. Pardaxin repels sharks and the gills and the pharynx are the target organs. On a molecular level, pardaxin forms voltage dependent, cation and anion permeable pores. Model of the pardaxin pore support an antiparallel oligomer of the helical segments with a narrow, negatively charged entrance due to the carboxy terminal segments. Pardaxin seems to be a suitable tool to investigate the molecular structures underlying channel selectivity and voltage dependence, and the relationship between channel activity, cytotoxicity and repellency to marine organisms.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 05, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA195824
Entities
People
- H. R. Guy
- Jay Fox
- Joe Gennaro
- Naftali Primor
- Philip Lazarovici