Electrophysiological Characterization of the Venom and Toxins from the Scorpion Tityus championi Targeting Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels and Molecular Modeling of Tch3, a Toxin with Therapeutic Potential for Pain Relief

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  Electrophysiological Characterization of the Venom and Toxins from the Scorpion Tityus championi Targeting Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels and Molecular Modeling of Tch3, a Toxin with Therapeutic Potential for Pain Relief Abstract Scorpion neurotoxins are small peptides that target ion channels and offer opportunities for novel therapeutic discovery. This study analyzed the functional effects of the venom and toxins from the Costa Rican endemic scorpion,  Tityus championi . Initially, crude venom was tested on different isoforms of voltage-gated sodium channels. Our findings revealed that the venom contains toxins that affect mammalian Na V 1.6 and Na V 1.7, as well as the cockroach BgNa V 1 channel. Increased currents through Na V 1.6 and BgNa V 1 channels were associated with bigger window currents and inhibition of inactivation. Decreased Na V 1.7 currents were associated with smaller conductance. Crude venom and TCh3 toxin inhibited action potential generation in invertebr...

About Me

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I am the founder and curator of Arácnido Taxonomy, a science-focused platform created to share knowledge and promote education in the areas of arachnid biology, venom systems, and their potential applications in medicine. My professional background spans more than 25 years in the fields of medicine, clinical research, and healthcare operations, where I have been deeply involved in study design, regulatory compliance, and the oversight of complex clinical trials.


Throughout my career, I have maintained a strong interest in how science, particularly in the biomedical and natural sciences, can be used to inform, educate, and inspire. My experience in clinical research and regulatory science has given me a solid foundation in evidence-based practice, which I now apply to the exploration of topics such as biodiversity, venom pharmacology, and evolutionary biology. While I am not a taxonomist by training, I bring a scientific and analytical lens to these subjects, viewing them through the broader framework of health, discovery, and public knowledge. My fascination with arachnids, especially spiders and scorpions, began early in life and has developed into a personal academic interest. Through Arácnido Taxonomy, I aim to share accurate, well-researched information about these often-misunderstood creatures. The platform is dedicated to making complex topics—such as arachnid classification, venom composition, and evolutionary adaptation- more accessible to a wide audience, including educators, researchers, healthcare professionals, and the general public.


In addition to highlighting the ecological and biological significance of arachnids, I focus much of my work on venomics and toxinology, with particular interest in the medical potential of venom-derived compounds. My research and educational efforts explore how these substances might contribute to the development of new therapeutics, improve antivenom strategies, and advance our understanding of physiological mechanisms at the molecular level.


Through the Arácnido Taxonomy website, I strive to blend scientific rigor with educational outreach. My goal is to foster curiosity, promote evidence-based learning, and encourage a multidisciplinary appreciation of how the natural world intersects with medicine and public health. Ultimately, this work reflects my commitment to advancing both scientific literacy and cross-disciplinary dialogue. By making specialized knowledge more approachable, we can build greater respect for biodiversity, drive innovation in healthcare, and support more informed conversations between the scientific community and the public.


Contact Information:
Luis A. Roque
Email: louaroque@aracnidotaxonomy.com