Premium
The cellular actions of the avermectins
Author(s) -
Wann Kenneth T.
Publication year - 1987
Publication title -
phytotherapy research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.019
H-Index - 129
eISSN - 1099-1573
pISSN - 0951-418X
DOI - 10.1002/ptr.2650010402
Subject(s) - avermectin , mode of action , action (physics) , ivermectin , broad spectrum , antiparasitic agent , drug , pharmacology , drug action , computational biology , antiparasitic , biology , neuroscience , medicine , toxicology , chemistry , combinatorial chemistry , ecology , pathology , physics , anatomy , quantum mechanics
Abstract Ivermectin is a synthetic derivative of the naturally occurring fermentation products, the avermectins. It was introduced as an antiparasitic drug in 1981, is now widely used in many countries, and as a drug has attracted considerable attention. In veterinary medicine its broad spectrum of activity has proved invaluable. In clinical trials in man its action seems to surpass that of currently available alternatives. The putative mode of action of the avermectins (AVMs) is unique, and this action has prompted within the industry a rethink of current strategies and a search for new drugs with equal activity. As tools the AVMs are also sufficiently refined to permit detailed probing of the properties of the GABA receptor channels of both mammalian and non‐mammalian systems. Consequently our knowledge of such systems has been enhanced by the judicious use of these probes. In this review the principal cellular actions of the AVMs are discussed. These actions provide insight into the possible mechanisms underlying the potent biological activity displayed by these agents.