Resiniferatoxin (RTX) is a plant toxin and ultrapotent capsaicin analog that occurs in various species of plants, such as resin spurge (Euphorbia resinifera). It evokes a powerful irritant effect followed by desensitization and analgesia. (1)
belongs to the class of organic compounds known as rhamnofolane and daphnane diterpenoids. These are diterpenoids with a structure based on one the rhamnofolane or daphnane skeleton. The rhamnofolane and daphnane skeletons are closely related, being formally derived from casbane by two cyclizations (6,10 and 5,14) followed by cleavage of the 1,15 (daphnane) or 2,15 (rhamnofolane) cyclopropane bonds.
Resiniferatoxin activates the vanilloid receptor in a subpopulation of primary afferent sensory neurons involved in nociception (the transmission of physiological pain). RTX causes a novel ion channel in the plasma membrane of sensory neurons, the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1, to become permeable to cations, most particularly the calcium cation. This evokes a powerful irritant effect followed by desensitization and analgesia. (1)
No indication of carcinogenicity to humans (not listed by IARC).
Uses/Sources
Resiniferatoxin (RTX) is a plant toxin and ultrapotent capsaicin analog that occurs in various species of plants, such as resin spurge (Euphorbia resinifera). (1) Investigated for use/treatment in interstitial cystitis and urinary incontinence.
Minimum Risk Level
Not Available
Health Effects
Resiniferatoxin is a neurotoxin that targets afferent sensory neurons involved in nociception. It evokes a powerful irritant effect followed by desensitization and analgesia. (1)
Symptoms
Resiniferatoxin evokes a powerful irritant effect followed by desensitization and analgesia. (1)
