Recent Developments in Engineering Non-Paralytic Botulinum Molecules for Therapeutic Applications

Toxins (Basel). 2024 Apr 3;16(4):175. doi: 10.3390/toxins16040175.

Abstract

This review discusses the expanding application of botulinum neurotoxin in treating neurological conditions. The article specifically explores novel approaches to using non-paralytic botulinum molecules. These new molecules, such as BiTox or el-iBoNT, offer an alternative for patients who face limitations in using paralytic forms of botulinum neurotoxin due to concerns about muscle function loss. We highlight the research findings that confirm not only the effectiveness of these molecules but also their reduced paralytic effect. We also discuss a potential cause for the diminished paralytic action of these molecules, specifically changes in the spatial parameters of the new botulinum molecules. In summary, this article reviews the current research that enhances our understanding of the application of new botulinum neurotoxins in the context of common conditions and suggests new avenues for developing more efficient molecules.

Keywords: botulinum neurotoxin; efficacy; non-paralytic molecules; safety; treatment.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Botulinum Toxins* / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Nervous System Diseases / drug therapy
  • Protein Engineering

Substances

  • Botulinum Toxins

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.