TAT-CBD3 is the 15-amino acid peptide derived from the axonal collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP-2) conjugated to the cell penetrating motif of the HIV transduction domain protein TAT, which is a modulator of N-type voltage-gated calcium channels (CaV2.2). TAT-CBD3 functions as a CRMP2 - CaV2.2 interaction inhibitor and reduces CaV2.2 mediated currents, and also reduces T-type currents, which results in reduced nociceptor excitability, diminished neuropeptide release from sensory neurons and lower excitatory synaptic transmission. TAT-CBD3 can also reduce hypersensitive behaviour in chemical-induced inflammatory and neuropathic animal pain models.
