Beta-mammal toxin Cn2 (Cn2)

Beta-mammal toxin Cn2 is a potent neurotoxin derived from the venom of the Mexican scorpion Centruroides noxius, one of the most dangerous scorpion species in the world. It functions as a beta-scorpion toxin that specifically targets voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels, particularly the Nav1.6 subtype, by shifting their activation threshold to more negative potentials and inducing a subthreshold sodium current. This leads to uncontrolled neuronal firing and systemic neurotoxicity, which can result in respiratory distress and death in mammals. In a therapeutic context, Cn2 is the primary target for neutralizing antivenoms and recombinant antibody fragments (scFvs) designed to treat severe envenomation. Understanding its structure and interaction with sodium channels is critical for the development of more effective, next-generation antivenoms and as a tool in neuropharmacological research.

Other names

Centruroides noxius toxin 2Cn2 toxinBeta-toxin Cn2Sodium channel modifier Cn2

Neutralization of the toxin by specific antibodies or F(ab')2 fragments to prevent its binding to voltage-gated sodium channels.