Definition of Melittin

1. Bad Bugs and Their Bites Slideshow
2. Heartburn: Foods to Eat and Avoid Slideshow
3. Understanding Multiple Sclerosis Slideshow

Melittin: The principal toxic component in bee venom. Melittin is a relatively short peptide consisting of 26 amino acids. It is a powerful cell lytic agent and binds rapidly to red blood cells causing the release of hemoglobin in the blood plasma. Lysis of these cells occurs when the organization of a lipid bilayer is perturbed.

Need help identifying pills and medications?
Use the pill finder tool on RxList.