Potently and selectively blocks the desensitization of ionotropic glutamate AMPA receptor (GRIA1, GRIA2, GRIA3 and GRIA4). Can also open already desensitized GRIA1 receptors. Binds to a different site than does the drug cyclothiazide (PubMed:19481459). The toxin acts like a straightjacket on the ligand-binding domain (LBD) 'gating ring' of the receptor, restraining the domains via both intra- and interdimer cross-links such that agonist-induced closure of the LBD 'clamshells' is transduced into an irislike expansion of the gating ring (PubMed:25103405). Application of the toxin to hippocampal slices causes a large and rapid increase in resting AMPAR-mediated current leading to neuronal death (PubMed:19481459). Homodimer; disulfide-linked. Expressed by the venom duct. The cysteine framework is CC-CC-C-C-C-CC-C-C-C-C. Dimer. Ikot-ikot is a Filipino word that translates to 'spinning around' or 'turning around', a reference to the swimming phenotype observed in fish injected with the toxin.