Gold nanoparticle-choline complexes can block nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.
We identified a novel class of direct ion-channel blockers of ligand-gated ion channels called the gold nanoparticle-choline complex. Negatively charged gold nanoparticles (1.4 nm) block ion pores by binding to the sulfur group of the cysteine loop of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), and currents evoked by acetylcholine (Ach) can break these bonds. The current evoked by ACh in nAChRs was blocked directly in ion pores by the gold nanoparticle- choline complex. In adrenal-gland perfusion studies, the complex also blocked nAChRs by diminishing catecholamine release by about 75%. An in vivo study showed muscle relaxation in rats after injection of the complex. These results will foster the application of gold nanoparticles as a direct ion-channel blocker.
Department of Pediatrics, Fatima Hospital, Daegu, Korea.
Chur
C
Chin
In Kyeom
IK
Kim
Dong Yoon
DY
Lim
Ki Suk
KS
Kim
Hyang Ae
HA
Lee
Eun Joo
EJ
Kim
D000818:Animals; D002460:Cell Line; D002794:Choline / Q000737:chemistry*; D006046:Gold / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000737:chemistry*; D015640:Ion Channel Gating / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D008422:Materials Testing; D018485:Muscle Fibers, Skeletal / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D053758:Nanoparticles / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000737:chemistry*; D018733:Nicotinic Antagonists / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000737:chemistry*; D051381:Rats
D018733:Nicotinic Antagonists; D006046:Gold; D002794:Choline