Molecular Origin of Novichok Nerve Agents

Nerve gasses have a devastating effect on the human body through their inhibition of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme, a crucial part of muscle control. In this review, we focus on the molecular aspects of the infamous Novichok nerve gasses. In addition to briefly outlining their development history, we place a lot of attention for the mode of action of these poisons. Secondary effects, medical treatment and legal aspects are also briefly reviewed. This document stands out from other reviews in this field by placing a focus on the (dynamic) properties of acetylcholinesterase, and by studying novichok as a carrier of a covalent warhead. In addition, by making use of recent crystal structures, the non-covalent binding aspects of novichok are described for the first time.