Trichuris suis oxantel-sensitive acetylcholine receptor (Tsu-O-AChR) (Tsu-O-AChR)

The Trichuris suis oxantel-sensitive acetylcholine receptor (Tsu-O-AChR) is a novel nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) subtype found in the pig whipworm, Trichuris suis, and other Clade I parasitic nematodes [1, 3]. It is a homomeric ion channel formed by the ACR-16-like subunit and is characterized by its unique pharmacological profile, specifically its high sensitivity to the anthelmintic drug oxantel [1, 8]. Unlike many other nematode nAChRs, Tsu-O-AChR is relatively insensitive to classic nicotinic agonists but is potently activated by oxantel, making it a primary target for treating whipworm infections [1, 3]. Activation of this receptor by agonists leads to persistent depolarization of the parasite's muscle cells, resulting in spastic paralysis and eventual expulsion from the host [1, 5]. Understanding this receptor is crucial for developing targeted treatments for trichuriasis, especially given the limited efficacy of other common anthelmintics against Trichuris species [1, 2].

Other names

Tsu-ACR-16-like receptorOxantel-sensitive acetylcholine receptorO-AChRTrichuris suis nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit ACR-16-like

Agonist of the oxantel-sensitive acetylcholine receptor, leading to persistent depolarization and spastic paralysis of the parasite.