Convulxin

Glycoprotein GPVI receptor agonist. Can be used for studies on platelet receptors. Activates mammalian platelets via binding and clustering of GPVI-receptors under physiological conditions. Occupation and clustering of GPVI activates Src family kinases, phosphorylates Fc receptor gamma-chain and activates p72SYK that is critical for downstream activation of platelets. Causes cardiovascular and respiratory disturbances. Prostaglandins are strong inhibitors of convulxin-induced aggregation. Heterodimeric C-type lectin. Disulfide linked heterodimer consisting of homologous alpha and beta chains. The heterodimers are additionally linked by disulfide bridges to form cyclic alpha(4)beta(4)heterotetramers.