Morantel citrate salt (CAS 69525-81-1)

Morantel citrate salt, with the CAS number 69525-81-1, is a chemical compound classified under the tetrahydropyrimidine group. It is known for its action as an agonist to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors located on the muscle cells of nematodes. By binding to these receptors, morantel citrate salt induces a prolonged opening of the receptor-associated ion channels, allowing an excessive influx of cations, particularly sodium ions, into the muscle cells. This results in a sustained depolarization of the muscle membrane, which disrupts normal neuromuscular transmission and leads to spastic paralysis of the affected nematodes. The paralysis prevents the nematodes from maintaining their position within the host, leading to their expulsion. In research contexts, morantel citrate salt is utilized to study the neuromuscular systems of parasitic nematodes, providing insights into the specific interactions between the chemical and the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. These studies are crucial for understanding how modifications in the receptor or the compound could influence the efficacy and specificity of this type of intervention. Furthermore, research involving morantel citrate salt helps in exploring resistance mechanisms that nematodes develop, which is essential for managing resistance and improving control strategies against parasitic infections in various environments.