Toxin Name Loxosceles astacin-like metalloprotease
Source Species Loxosceles  intermedia
Toxin Group Sicaritoxin
Description The astacins are a subfamily of the metzincin superfamily of metalloproteinases. They are named after the prototypic family member, astacin (EC 3.4.24.21), from the crayfish Astacus astacus. Astacins are zinc-dependent metallopeptidases that are found in a diverse range of animals from hydra to humans. They are characterized by a conserved zinc-binding motif (HEXXHXXGFXHE) and two conserved disulphide bridges with a 1-4, 2-3 connectivity. Astacins share common features with serralysins, matrix metalloendopeptidases, and snake venom proteases.

Loxosceles astacin-like protease (LALP) is proteolytically active against fibronectin, fibrinogen, and gelatin. Moreover, it alters the morphology of cultured rabbit endothelial cells and causes them to detach from substrate. Its role in the venom is not fully understood but it might act as a spreading factor that facilitates diffusion of other venom toxins. Alternatively, LALP might be involved in the proteolytic processing of other venom toxins or it might play a role in extra-oral digestion of prey.
Discovered 2006
Sex: Female, Prosoma length: 4mm
Photo courtesy of Bastian Rast
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This toxin last updated on Jun 02, 2009

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