photoactivatable AaH-II

Photoactivatable AaH-II is a light-sensitive, "caged" analogue of the alpha-scorpion toxin AaH-II, which is naturally derived from the venom of *Androctonus australis Hector*. This peptide is a potent and selective modulator of voltage-gated sodium channels, specifically acting to slow their inactivation process. In its photoactivatable form, the peptide is chemically modified with a light-removable protecting group that renders it biologically inactive until exposed to specific wavelengths of light (e.g., 405 nm). This technology, part of the field of photopharmacology, allows for high spatial and temporal control over ion channel modulation. Research presented at HRS 2026 demonstrates that when used in conjunction with wireless cardiac implants, photoactivatable AaH-II can locally modulate cardiac electrical activity, potentially offering a targeted approach to treating cardiac arrhythmias while minimizing systemic off-target effects.

Other names

caged AaH-IIphotoactivatable scorpion toxin AaH-II