α-Conotoxin GI-FITC

Overview

α-Conotoxin GI-FITC is a research-grade protein/peptide reagent used in research settings. It is commonly applied as a tool reagent related to α1/β1/δ/γ nAChR biology and/or assay development. The reagent is provided as a FITC conjugate, supporting detection or imaging workflows where applicable. It is supplied in Lyophilized format to support flexible downstream use in RUO workflows. Researchers commonly pair it with applications such as Electrophysiology, Immunofluorescence, Fluorescence staining, Direct flow cytometry.

Key elements and design rationale

• Molecular identity: MW: 1827 Da.
• Source / origin: Conus geographus (Geography cone) (Nubecula geographus).
• Quality attributes: Bioassay tested: Yes; Sterile / endotoxin-free: No.

Modifications

Cys13 - C-terminal amidation Disulfide bonds between: Cys2-Cys7, Cys3-Cys13FITC

When used as a biochemical or pharmacological tool, results are best interpreted relative to the experimental system (species, expression level, and assay readout) and with appropriate negative and competition-style controls where relevant. This product is intended for research use only.

Biological background

α-Conotoxin GI is a 13 amino acid peptidyl toxin isolated from the Conus geographus (Geography cone) venom1,2,3. It belongs to the Conotoxin A superfamily and reversibly blocks α/δ nicotinic ACh channel receptors (nAChR). α-Conotoxin GI reversibly inhibits the high affinity α/δ site on mouse muscle-derived BC3H-1 receptor, a nAChR expressed on postsynaptic membranes4,5. Other low site (α/γ site) on nicotinic receptors from Torpedo californica electric organ is also inhibited by α-Conotoxin GI5.

Research relevance and current trends

• Using high-specificity ligands, toxins, and engineered peptides to dissect closely related receptor/channel subtypes and signaling microdomains.
• Pairing labeled (e.g., fluorescent) proteins/peptides with advanced imaging to map surface expression, trafficking, and nanoscale organization.
• Increasing emphasis on reproducibility through standardized characterization (identity, purity, and lot QC) and transparent reporting of reagent attributes.

Common research applications

• Electrophysiology: commonly used to compare signal, binding, or functional readouts across conditions without implying a specific protocol.
• Immunofluorescence: commonly used to compare signal, binding, or functional readouts across conditions without implying a specific protocol.
• Fluorescence staining: commonly used to compare signal, binding, or functional readouts across conditions without implying a specific protocol.
• Direct flow cytometry: commonly used to compare signal, binding, or functional readouts across conditions without implying a specific protocol.

Across these use cases, changes in signal or functional readout are generally interpreted as evidence of differences in target abundance, accessibility, or engagement, but alternative explanations (matrix effects, off-target interactions, or assay artifacts) should be considered.

Notes for experimental interpretation

• Assay context matters: binding assays, functional modulation, and detection workflows can yield different readouts even for the same target system.
• Target complexity: closely related family members, splice variants, and post-translational modifications can influence apparent specificity and potency.
• Matrix and sample effects: buffer composition, detergents, and biological matrices may alter stability or apparent activity; interpret with appropriate controls.
• Control concepts: include negative controls and orthogonal validation (e.g., genetic perturbation or alternative reagents) to support robust interpretation.

Can’t Find What You’re Looking For? We can help you source the best match or customize a recombinant protein solution for your study. Options may include species (human/mouse/rat), protein region/domain (full-length vs fragment), tag or label (His/GST/FLAG/biotin/fluorescent), expression system (E. coli/HEK293/insect), purity grade, formulation (buffer, carrier-free, glycerol-free), activity/functional validation (binding or enzymatic assays), endotoxin level (low-endotoxin for cell-based work), mutants/variants (point mutations, isoforms), and bulk or custom packaging. Click Talk to a Scientist to submit a request form, email us at support@biohippo.com, or explore our Research Services for additional support. Our team will be in contact with you shortly.