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Toxic potential of palytoxin
Jiří Patocka1,2, Ramesh C Gupta3, Qing-Hua Wu4,5
1University of South Bohemia Ceske Budejovice, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, Department of Radiology and Toxicology, Ceske Budejovice, 37005, Czech Republic.
Palytoxin, a potent marine toxin from dinoflagellates and other organisms, is a neurotoxin affecting Na+/K+-ATPase. It poses significant risks through various exposure routes, including contaminated seafood and aerosols.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Toxicology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Palytoxin and its analogues are potent toxins produced by marine dinoflagellates, Zoanthids, and Cyanobacteria.
- Palytoxin is a large, complex molecule with both lipophilic and hydrophilic properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the origin, chemistry, mechanism of action, pharmacology, toxicology, and ecotoxicology of palytoxin.
- To highlight the global concern regarding palytoxin's toxicity in humans and animals.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on palytoxin.
- Analysis of pharmacological and electrophysiological data.
- Evaluation of toxicity data from animal models.
Main Results:
- Palytoxin is an extremely potent neurotoxin with an LD50 of 150 ng/kg in mice.
- It binds to Na+/K+-ATPase, transforming it into a cation-permeable channel.
- Toxic effects occur via multiple exposure routes, including ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact.
Conclusions:
- Palytoxin exhibits high toxicity and poses a significant global health concern.
- Understanding its mechanisms and sources is crucial for managing poisoning risks.
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