Homologous low molecular weight compounds blocking postsynaptic glutamate receptors were isolated from the Argiope lobata spider venom by ion-exchange chromatography and reverse-phase HPLC. Structures of nine different blocking agents were determined by NMR and mass spectroscopy. They can be divided into three groups: argiopin, argiopinins and pseudoargiopinines. The major principles of the structural organization of the novel class of antagonists of glutamate receptors were considered.
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