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. 2008 Jan;1(1):3-6.
doi: 10.4103/0974-2077.41148.

Botulinum Toxin: Non-cosmetic Indications and Possible Mechanisms of Action

Uwe Wollina  1
Affiliations

Botulinum Toxin: Non-cosmetic Indications and Possible Mechanisms of Action

Uwe Wollina. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2008 Jan.

Abstract

Botulinum toxin (BTX) has gained a great interest in cosmetic dermatology for its effects on hyperkinetic facial lines. Understanding the basic research and analysis of effects of this potent drug can lead to other possible indications of interest for dermatologists. The use of BTX in focal hyperhidrosis is well established, but BTX has also effects on pain perception, itch and inflammation as discussed in this review.

Keywords: Acetylcholine; Botulinum toxin; SNARE complex.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest: None declared.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Synaptosomal acetylcholine vesicle fusion requires a complex interaction of VAMP and membrane bound SNAP25/syntaxin. BTXA is entering the nerve ending by endocytosis. The light chain of the molecule specifically cleaves SNAP-25. The target for some other BTX serotypes is different (see text). By this way, acetylcholine release from nerve endings is blocked.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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