Scientists reveal the lethal mechanism of black widow venom and its potential applications.

The venom of the black widow spider contains seven toxins, among which α-latrotoxin is toxic to vertebrates. This toxin disrupts nerve signals, leading to muscle spasms.

Research from the University of Münster has revealed the complex mechanism of α-latrotoxin. After binding to nerve cell receptors, the toxin forms calcium channels, allowing calcium ions to flow in and trigger muscle contractions.

The study, utilizing cryo-electron microscopy and molecular dynamics simulations, found that the toxin molecules form a stalk-like structure that penetrates the cell membrane, creating small pores that act as calcium channels.

Professor Christos Gatsogiannis noted that α-latrotoxin mimics the function of calcium channels, differing from known toxins. The research findings were published in Nature Communications.

This study not only unveils the toxin's mechanism but also demonstrates its potential in the medical and biotechnological fields, such as developing antidotes and biological pesticides.