Solution structure of CnErg1 (Ergtoxin), a HERG specific scorpion toxin

The three-dimensional structure of chemically synthesized CnErg1 (Ergtoxin), which specifically blocks HERG (human ether-a-go-go-related gene) K⁺ channels, was determined by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. CnErg1 consists of a triple-stranded β-sheet and an α-helix, as is typical of K⁺ channel scorpion toxins. The peptide structure differs from the canonical structures in that the first β-strand is shorter and is nearer to the second β-strand rather than to the third β-strand on the C-terminus. There is also a large hydrophobic patch on the surface of the toxin, surrounding a central lysine residue, Lys13. We postulate that this hydrophobic patch is likely to form part of the binding surface of the toxin.