A conjugate composed of nerve growth factor coupled to a non-toxic derivative of Clostridium botulinum neurotoxin type A can inhibit neurotransmitter release in vitro

JA Chaddock, JR Purkiss, MJ Duggan, CP Quinn… - Growth …, 2000 - Taylor & Francis
JA Chaddock, JR Purkiss, MJ Duggan, CP Quinn, CC Shone, KA Foster
Growth Factors, 2000Taylor & Francis
Nerve growth factor (NGF) receptor binding, internalisation and transportation of NGF has
been identified as a potential route of delivery for other molecules. A derivative of
Clostridium botulinum neurotoxin type A (LHN) that retains catalytic activity but has
significantly reduced cell-binding capability has been prepared and chemically coupled to
NGF. Intact clostridial neurotoxins potently inhibit neurotransmitter release at the
neuromuscular junction by proteolysis of specific components of the vesicle docking/fusion …
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) receptor binding, internalisation and transportation of NGF has been identified as a potential route of delivery for other molecules. A derivative of Clostridium botulinum neurotoxin type A (LHN) that retains catalytic activity but has significantly reduced cell-binding capability has been prepared and chemically coupled to NGF. Intact clostridial neurotoxins potently inhibit neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction by proteolysis of specific components of the vesicle docking/fusion complex. Here we report that the NGF-LHN/A conjugate, when applied to PC12 cells, significantly inhibited neurotransmitter release and cleaved the type A toxin substrate. This work represents the successful use of NGF as a targeting moiety for the delivery of a neurotoxin fragment.
Taylor & Francis Online