1
|
García-Villalvazo PE, Jiménez-Vargas JM, Lino-López GJ, Meneses EP, Bermúdez-Guzmán MDJ, Barajas-Saucedo CE, Delgado Enciso I, Possani LD, Valdez-Velazquez LL. Unveiling the Protein Components of the Secretory-Venom Gland and Venom of the Scorpion Centruroides possanii (Buthidae) through Omic Technologies. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:498. [PMID: 37624255 PMCID: PMC10467079 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15080498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Centruroides possanii is a recently discovered species of "striped scorpion" found in Mexico. Certain species of Centruroides are known to be toxic to mammals, leading to numerous cases of human intoxications in the country. Venom components are thought to possess therapeutic potential and/or biotechnological applications. Hence, obtaining and analyzing the secretory gland transcriptome and venom proteome of C. possanii is relevant, and that is what is described in this communication. Since this is a newly described species, first, its LD50 to mice was determined and estimated to be 659 ng/g mouse weight. Using RNA extracted from this species and preparing their corresponding cDNA fragments, a transcriptome analysis was obtained on a Genome Analyzer (Illumina) using the 76-base pair-end sequencing protocol. Via high-throughput sequencing, 19,158,736 reads were obtained and ensembled in 835,204 sequences. Of them, 28,399 transcripts were annotated with Pfam. A total of 244 complete transcripts were identified in the transcriptome of C. possanii. Of these, 109 sequences showed identity to toxins that act on ion channels, 47 enzymes, 17 protease inhibitors (PINs), 11 defense peptides (HDPs), and 60 in other components. In addition, a sample of the soluble venom obtained from this scorpion was analyzed using an Orbitrap Velos apparatus, which allowed for identification by liquid chromatography followed by mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) of 70 peptides and proteins: 23 toxins, 27 enzymes, 6 PINs, 3 HDPs, and 11 other components. Until now, this work has the highest number of scorpion venom components identified through omics technologies. The main novel findings described here were analyzed in comparison with the known data from the literature, and this process permitted some new insights in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Juana María Jiménez-Vargas
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad de Colima, Colima 28400, Mexico; (P.E.G.-V.); (J.M.J.-V.); (C.E.B.-S.)
- Consejo Nacional de Humanidades, Ciencia y Tecnología (CONAHCYT), Mexico City 03940, Mexico
| | - Gisela Jareth Lino-López
- Centro Nacional de Referencia de Control Biológico, Dirección General de Sanidad Vegetal SENASICASADER, Colima 28110, Mexico;
| | - Erika Patricia Meneses
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico;
| | | | | | | | - Lourival Domingos Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico;
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Montero-Dominguez PA, Corzo G. Characterization of the coupling mechanism of scorpion β-neurotoxins on the voltage-gated sodium channel hNav1.6. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:14419-14427. [PMID: 36812246 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2181629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Scorpion β-neurotoxins represent a pharmacological group that affects voltage-gated sodium channels (Nav). Despite knowing the electrophysiological effect of these toxins on Nav channels, the molecular mechanism by which the union is carried out is still undetermined. In this study, computational techniques such as modeling, docking and molecular dynamics were used to elucidate the mechanism of interaction between scorpion β-neurotoxins using the neurotoxin nCssII and its recombinant variant CssII-RCR, which bind to the site-4, an extracellular receptor, of the human sodium channel hNav1.6. Different modes of interaction were observed for both toxins, where the main distinguishing feature was the interaction generated by the residue E15 on such site-4; that is, E15 in nCssII exhibits an interaction with the voltage-sensing domain II, and the same residue E15 of CssII-RCR exhibits an interaction with domain III. Despite this difference in interaction by E15, it is seen that both neurotoxins interact with similar regions of the voltage sensing domain such as the S3-S4 connecting loop (L834-E838) of the hNav1.6. Our simulations present a first approach to the mode of interaction of scorpion beta-neurotoxins in toxin-receptor complexes, being able to explain at the molecular level the phenomenon of voltage sensor entrapment generated by these toxins.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pavel Andrei Montero-Dominguez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca Mor, México
| | - Gerardo Corzo
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca Mor, México
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
de Melo-Braga MN, Moreira RDS, Gervásio JHDB, Felicori LF. Overview of protein posttranslational modifications in Arthropoda venoms. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2022; 28:e20210047. [PMID: 35519418 PMCID: PMC9036706 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Accidents with venomous animals are a public health issue worldwide. Among the species involved in these accidents are scorpions, spiders, bees, wasps, and other members of the phylum Arthropoda. The knowledge of the function of proteins present in these venoms is important to guide diagnosis, therapeutics, besides being a source of a large variety of biotechnological active molecules. Although our understanding about the characteristics and function of arthropod venoms has been evolving in the last decades, a major aspect crucial for the function of these proteins remains poorly studied, the posttranslational modifications (PTMs). Comprehension of such modifications can contribute to better understanding the basis of envenomation, leading to improvements in the specificities of potential therapeutic toxins. Therefore, in this review, we bring to light protein/toxin PTMs in arthropod venoms by accessing the information present in the UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot database, including experimental and putative inferences. Then, we concentrate our discussion on the current knowledge on protein phosphorylation and glycosylation, highlighting the potential functionality of these modifications in arthropod venom. We also briefly describe general approaches to study "PTM-functional-venomics", herein referred to the integration of PTM-venomics with a functional investigation of PTM impact on venom biology. Furthermore, we discuss the bottlenecks in toxinology studies covering PTM investigation. In conclusion, through the mining of PTMs in arthropod venoms, we observed a large gap in this field that limits our understanding on the biology of these venoms, affecting the diagnosis and therapeutics development. Hence, we encourage community efforts to draw attention to a better understanding of PTM in arthropod venom toxins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcella Nunes de Melo-Braga
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Raniele da Silva Moreira
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - João Henrique Diniz Brandão Gervásio
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Liza Figueiredo Felicori
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Peptide Hydrazides as Thioester Equivalents for the Chemical Synthesis of Proteins. METHODS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (CLIFTON, N.J.) 2021; 2133:119-140. [PMID: 32144665 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0434-2_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The chemical synthesis of proteins allows for the precise control of structural information at the atomic level, overcoming the limits of protein expression. Peptide hydrazides are widely used as thioester equivalents in the total chemical synthesis and semisynthesis of proteins as they can be easily prepared using standard solid phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) and recombinant peptide techniques. Via treatment with NaNO2 and subsequent thiolysis, peptide hydrazides can be rapidly converted to peptide thioesters, which then selectively react with recombinant protein containing an N-terminal cysteine (Cys) to form a native peptide bond, thereby linking the two peptide segments without isolating any intermediates.
Collapse
|
5
|
Mulamreddy R, Lubell WD. Constrained Glu‐Gly and Gln‐Gly dipeptide surrogates from γ‐substituted α‐amino‐δ‐lactam synthesis. Pept Sci (Hoboken) 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/pep2.24149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
6
|
Riaño-Umbarila L, Gómez-Ramírez IV, Ledezma-Candanoza LM, Olamendi-Portugal T, Rodríguez-Rodríguez ER, Fernández-Taboada G, Possani LD, Becerril B. Generation of a Broadly Cross-Neutralizing Antibody Fragment against Several Mexican Scorpion Venoms. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11010032. [PMID: 30634620 PMCID: PMC6356842 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11010032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The recombinant antibody fragments generated against the toxic components of scorpion venoms are considered a promising alternative for obtaining new antivenoms for therapy. Using directed evolution and site-directed mutagenesis, it was possible to generate a human single-chain antibody fragment with a broad cross-reactivity that retained recognition for its original antigen. This variant is the first antibody fragment that neutralizes the effect of an estimated 13 neurotoxins present in the venom of nine species of Mexican scorpions. This single antibody fragment showed the properties of a polyvalent antivenom. These results represent a significant advance in the development of new antivenoms against scorpion stings, since the number of components would be minimized due to their broad cross-neutralization capacity, while at the same time bypassing animal immunization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Riaño-Umbarila
- CONACYT, Instituto de Biotecnología-Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico.
| | - Ilse V Gómez-Ramírez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico.
| | - Luis M Ledezma-Candanoza
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico.
| | - Timoteo Olamendi-Portugal
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico.
| | - Everardo Remi Rodríguez-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico.
| | - Guillermo Fernández-Taboada
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico.
| | - Lourival D Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico.
| | - Baltazar Becerril
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62250, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ward MJ, Ellsworth SA, Nystrom GS. A global accounting of medically significant scorpions: Epidemiology, major toxins, and comparative resources in harmless counterparts. Toxicon 2018; 151:137-155. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
|
8
|
Cardoso FC, Lewis RJ. Sodium channels and pain: from toxins to therapies. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:2138-2157. [PMID: 28749537 PMCID: PMC5980290 DOI: 10.1111/bph.13962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Revised: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV channels) are essential for the initiation and propagation of action potentials that critically influence our ability to respond to a diverse range of stimuli. Physiological and pharmacological studies have linked abnormal function of NaV channels to many human disorders, including chronic neuropathic pain. These findings, along with the description of the functional properties and expression pattern of NaV channel subtypes, are helping to uncover subtype specific roles in acute and chronic pain and revealing potential opportunities to target these with selective inhibitors. High-throughput screens and automated electrophysiology platforms have identified natural toxins as a promising group of molecules for the development of target-specific analgesics. In this review, the role of toxins in defining the contribution of NaV channels in acute and chronic pain states and their potential to be used as analgesic therapies are discussed. LINKED ARTICLES This article is part of a themed section on Recent Advances in Targeting Ion Channels to Treat Chronic Pain. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v175.12/issuetoc.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda C Cardoso
- Department of Chemistry and Structural Biology, Institute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| | - Richard J Lewis
- Department of Chemistry and Structural Biology, Institute for Molecular BioscienceThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQLDAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ward MJ, Ellsworth SA, Rokyta DR. Venom-gland transcriptomics and venom proteomics of the Hentz striped scorpion (Centruroides hentzi; Buthidae) reveal high toxin diversity in a harmless member of a lethal family. Toxicon 2018; 142:14-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.12.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
|
10
|
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are critical in generation and conduction of electrical signals in multiple excitable tissues. Natural toxins, produced by animal, plant, and microorganisms, target VGSCs through diverse strategies developed over millions of years of evolutions. Studying of the diverse interaction between VGSC and VGSC-targeting toxins has been contributing to the increasing understanding of molecular structure and function, pharmacology, and drug development potential of VGSCs. This chapter aims to summarize some of the current views on the VGSC-toxin interaction based on the established receptor sites of VGSC for natural toxins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yonghua Ji
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Neurotoxicology, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Updating knowledge on new medically important scorpion species in Mexico. Toxicon 2017; 138:130-137. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 08/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
|
12
|
Jiménez-Vargas JM, Quintero-Hernández V, González-Morales L, Ortiz E, Possani LD. Design and expression of recombinant toxins from Mexican scorpions of the genus Centruroides for production of antivenoms. Toxicon 2017; 128:5-14. [PMID: 28126552 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Revised: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This manuscript describes the design of plasmids containing the genes coding for four main mammalian toxins of scorpions from the genus Centruroides (C.) of Mexico. The genes that code for toxin 2 of C. noxius (Cn2), toxin 2 from C. suffusus (Css2) and toxins 1 and 2 from C. limpidus (Cll1 and Cll2) were included into individual plasmids carrying the genetic construction for expression of fusion proteins containing a leader peptide (pelB) that directs the expressed protein to the bacterial periplasm, a carrier protein (thioredoxin), the cleavage site for enterokinase, the chosen toxin and a poly-histidine tag (6xHis-tag) for purification of the hybrid protein by immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography after expression in Escherichia coli strain BL21 (DE3). The purified hybrid proteins containing the recombinant toxins (abbreviated Thio-EK-Toxin) were used for immunization of three independent groups of ten mice and four rabbits. Challenging the first group of mice, immunized with recombinant Thio-EK-Css2, with three median lethal doses (LD50) of C. suffusus soluble venom resulted in the survival of all the test animals without showing intoxication symptoms. All control mice (none immunized) died. Similar results were obtained with mice previously immunized with Thio-EK-Cn2 and challenged with C. noxius venom. The third group of mice immunized with both Thio-EK-Cll1 and Thio-EK-Cll2 showed an 80% survival ratio when challenged with only one LD50 of C. limpidus venom, all showing symptoms of intoxication. The sera from rabbits immunized with a combination of the four recombinant toxins were collected separately and used to assess their neutralization capacity in vitro (pre-incubating the serum with the respective scorpion venom and injecting the mixture into mice), using six mice for each serum/venom combination tested. The venoms from the six most dangerous scorpion species of Mexico were assayed: C. noxius, C. suffusus, C. limpidus, C. elegans, C. tecomanus and C. sculpturatus. Two hundred and 50 μL of serum from any of the immunized rabbits were enough to neutralize three LD50 of any of the tested venoms, with mice showing no symptoms of intoxication. These results confirm that the recombinant forms of the main toxins from the most dangerous scorpions of Mexico are excellent immunogens for the production of antivenoms to treat scorpion intoxications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J M Jiménez-Vargas
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - V Quintero-Hernández
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - L González-Morales
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - E Ortiz
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - L D Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Olamendi-Portugal T, Restano-Cassulini R, Riaño-Umbarila L, Becerril B, Possani LD. Functional and immuno-reactive characterization of a previously undescribed peptide from the venom of the scorpion Centruroides limpidus. Peptides 2017; 87:34-40. [PMID: 27871874 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2016.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A previously undescribed toxic peptide named Cl13 was purified from the venom of the Mexican scorpion Centruroides limpidus. It contains 66 amino acid residues, including four disulfide bonds. The physiological effects assayed in 7 different subtypes of voltage gated Na+-channels, showed that it belongs to the β-scorpion toxin type. The most notorious effects were observed in subtypes Nav1.4, Nav1.5 and Nav1.6. Although having important sequence similarities with two other lethal toxins from this scorpion species (Cll1m and Cll2), the recently developed single chain antibody fragments (scFv) of human origin were not capable of protecting against Cl13. At the amino acid sequence level, in 3 stretches of peptide Cl13 (positions 7-9, 30-38 and 62-66) some differences with respect to other similar toxins are observed. Some of these differences coincide with contact points with the human antibody fragments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timoteo Olamendi-Portugal
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510.3 Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - Rita Restano-Cassulini
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510.3 Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - Lidia Riaño-Umbarila
- CONACYT, Instituto de Biotecnología,Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico
| | - Baltazar Becerril
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510.3 Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - Lourival D Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510.3 Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Martin-Eauclaire MF, Salvatierra J, Bosmans F, Bougis PE. The scorpion toxin Bot IX is a potent member of the α-like family and has a unique N-terminal sequence extension. FEBS Lett 2016; 590:3221-32. [DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Juan Salvatierra
- Department of Physiology; School of Medicine; Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore MD USA
| | - Frank Bosmans
- Department of Physiology; School of Medicine; Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore MD USA
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience; School of Medicine; Johns Hopkins University; Baltimore MD USA
| | - Pierre E. Bougis
- Aix Marseille Université; CNRS; CRN2M; UMR7286; PFRN-CAPM; Marseille France
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Rodríguez-Rodríguez ER, Olamendi-Portugal T, Serrano-Posada H, Arredondo-López JN, Gómez-Ramírez I, Fernández-Taboada G, Possani LD, Anguiano-Vega GA, Riaño-Umbarila L, Becerril B. Broadening the neutralizing capacity of a family of antibody fragments against different toxins from Mexican scorpions. Toxicon 2016; 119:52-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Revised: 05/12/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
16
|
Martin-Eauclaire MF, Ferracci G, Bosmans F, Bougis PE. A surface plasmon resonance approach to monitor toxin interactions with an isolated voltage-gated sodium channel paddle motif. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 145:155-62. [PMID: 25624450 PMCID: PMC4306711 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201411268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The isolated Nav channel domain IV paddle motif remains susceptible to toxins that inhibit fast inactivation. Animal toxins that inhibit voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channel fast inactivation can do so through an interaction with the S3b–S4 helix-turn-helix region, or paddle motif, located in the domain IV voltage sensor. Here, we used surface plasmon resonance (SPR), an optical approach that uses polarized light to measure the refractive index near a sensor surface to which a molecule of interest is attached, to analyze interactions between the isolated domain IV paddle and Nav channel–selective α-scorpion toxins. Our SPR analyses showed that the domain IV paddle can be removed from the Nav channel and immobilized on sensor chips, and suggest that the isolated motif remains susceptible to animal toxins that target the domain IV voltage sensor. As such, our results uncover the inherent pharmacological sensitivities of the isolated domain IV paddle motif, which may be exploited to develop a label-free SPR approach for discovering ligands that target this region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-France Martin-Eauclaire
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre de Recherche en Neurobiologie et Neurophysiologie de Marseillle, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7286, Plates-Formes de Recherche en Neurosciences-Centre d'Analyse Protéomique de Marseille, Aix Marseille Université, 13344 Marseille, France
| | - Géraldine Ferracci
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre de Recherche en Neurobiologie et Neurophysiologie de Marseillle, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7286, Plates-Formes de Recherche en Neurosciences-Centre d'Analyse Protéomique de Marseille, Aix Marseille Université, 13344 Marseille, France
| | - Frank Bosmans
- Department of Physiology and Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 Department of Physiology and Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205
| | - Pierre E Bougis
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre de Recherche en Neurobiologie et Neurophysiologie de Marseillle, Unité Mixte de Recherche 7286, Plates-Formes de Recherche en Neurosciences-Centre d'Analyse Protéomique de Marseille, Aix Marseille Université, 13344 Marseille, France
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Carmo AO, Chatzaki M, Horta CCR, Magalhães BF, Oliveira-Mendes BBR, Chávez-Olórtegui C, Kalapothakis E. Evolution of alternative methodologies of scorpion antivenoms production. Toxicon 2015; 97:64-74. [PMID: 25701676 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2014] [Revised: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Scorpionism represents a serious public health problem resulting in the death of children and debilitated individuals. Scorpion sting treatment employs various strategies including the use of specific medicines such as antiserum, especially for patients with severe symptoms. In 1909 Charles Todd described the production of an antiserum against the venom of the scorpion Buthus quinquestriatus. Based on Todd's work, researchers worldwide began producing antiserum using the same approach i.e., immunization of horses with crude venom as antigen. Despite achieving satisfactory results using this approach, researchers in this field have developed alternative approaches for the production of scorpion antivenom serum. In this review, we describe the work published by experts in toxinology to the development of scorpion venom antiserum. Methods and results describing the use of specific antigens, detoxified venom or toxins, purified toxins and or venom fractions, native toxoids, recombinant toxins, synthetic peptides, monoclonal and recombinant antibodies, and alternative animal models are presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A O Carmo
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - M Chatzaki
- Department of Molecular Biology & Genetics, Democritus University of Thrace, University Campus, 69100 Komotini, Greece.
| | - C C R Horta
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - B F Magalhães
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - B B R Oliveira-Mendes
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - C Chávez-Olórtegui
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - E Kalapothakis
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Avenida Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Kalia J, Milescu M, Salvatierra J, Wagner J, Klint JK, King GF, Olivera BM, Bosmans F. From foe to friend: using animal toxins to investigate ion channel function. J Mol Biol 2014; 427:158-175. [PMID: 25088688 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2014.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Ion channels are vital contributors to cellular communication in a wide range of organisms, a distinct feature that renders this ubiquitous family of membrane-spanning proteins a prime target for toxins found in animal venom. For many years, the unique properties of these naturally occurring molecules have enabled researchers to probe the structural and functional features of ion channels and to define their physiological roles in normal and diseased tissues. To illustrate their considerable impact on the ion channel field, this review will highlight fundamental insights into toxin-channel interactions and recently developed toxin screening methods and practical applications of engineered toxins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeet Kalia
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Pune; Pune, Maharashtra 411 008 India
| | - Mirela Milescu
- Division of Biological Sciences; University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211 USA
| | - Juan Salvatierra
- Department of Physiology; Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Jordan Wagner
- Department of Physiology; Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Julie K Klint
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience; The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience; The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072 Australia
| | | | - Frank Bosmans
- Department of Physiology; Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA.,Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience; Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Estrada-Gómez S, Cupitra NI, Arango WM, Muñoz LJV. Intraspecific variation of centruroides edwardsii venom from two regions of Colombia. Toxins (Basel) 2014; 6:2082-96. [PMID: 25025710 PMCID: PMC4113743 DOI: 10.3390/toxins6072082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Revised: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 06/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the first description studies, partial characterization, and intraspecific difference of Centruroides edwardsii, Gervais 1843, venom. C. edwardsii from two Colombian regions (Antioquia and Tolima) were evaluated. Both venoms showed hemolytic activity, possibly dependent of enzymatic active phospholipases, and neither coagulant nor proteolytic activities were observed. Venom electrophoretic profile showed significant differences between C. edwardsii venom from both regions. A high concentration of proteins with molecular masses between 31 kDa and 97.4 kDa, and an important concentration close or below 14.4 kDa were detected. RP-HPLC retention times between 38.2 min and 42.1 min, showed bands close to 14.4 kDa, which may correspond to phospholipases. RP-HPLC venom profile showed a well conserved region in both venoms between 7 and 17 min, after this, significant differences were detected. From Tolima region venom, 50 well-defined peaks were detected, while in the Antioquia region venom, 55 well-defined peaks were detected. Larvicidal activity was only detected in the C. edwardsii venom from Antioquia. No antimicrobial activity was observed using complete venom or RP-HPLC collected fractions of both venoms. Lethally activity (carried out on female albino swiss mice) was detected at doses over 19.2 mg/kg of crude venom. Toxic effects included distress, excitability, eye irritation and secretions, hyperventilation, ataxia, paralysis, and salivation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián Estrada-Gómez
- Facultad de Quimica Farmaceutica, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Carrera 53 No. 61-30, Medellín 050010, Colombia.
| | - Nelson Ivan Cupitra
- Grupo de Investigación de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad del Tolima, Barrio Santa Helena Parte Alta, Ibagué 731020, Colombia.
| | - Walter Murillo Arango
- Grupo de Investigación de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad del Tolima, Barrio Santa Helena Parte Alta, Ibagué 731020, Colombia.
| | - Leidy Johana Vargas Muñoz
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Calle 50 A No. 41-20, Medellín 050010, Colombia.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Moreau A, Gosselin-Badaroudine P, Chahine M. Biophysics, pathophysiology, and pharmacology of ion channel gating pores. Front Pharmacol 2014; 5:53. [PMID: 24772081 PMCID: PMC3982104 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2014.00053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage sensor domains (VSDs) are a feature of voltage gated ion channels (VGICs) and voltage sensitive proteins. They are composed of four transmembrane (TM) segments (S1–S4). Currents leaking through VSDs are called omega or gating pore currents. Gating pores are caused by mutations of the highly conserved positively charged amino acids in the S4 segment that disrupt interactions between the S4 segment and the gating charge transfer center (GCTC). The GCTC separates the intracellular and extracellular water crevices. The disruption of S4–GCTC interactions allows these crevices to communicate and create a fast activating and non-inactivating alternative cation-selective permeation pathway of low conductance, or a gating pore. Gating pore currents have recently been shown to cause periodic paralysis phenotypes. There is also increasing evidence that gating pores are linked to several other familial diseases. For example, gating pores in Nav1.5 and Kv7.2 channels may underlie mixed arrhythmias associated with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) phenotypes and peripheral nerve hyperexcitability (PNH), respectively. There is little evidence for the existence of gating pore blockers. Moreover, it is known that a number of toxins bind to the VSD of a specific domain of Na+ channels. These toxins may thus modulate gating pore currents. This focus on the VSD motif opens up a new area of research centered on developing molecules to treat a number of cell excitability disorders such as epilepsy, cardiac arrhythmias, and pain. The purpose of the present review is to summarize existing knowledge of the pathophysiology, biophysics, and pharmacology of gating pore currents and to serve as a guide for future studies aimed at improving our understanding of gating pores and their pathophysiological roles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adrien Moreau
- Centre de Recherche de L'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | | | - Mohamed Chahine
- Centre de Recherche de L'Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Québec Quebec City, QC, Canada ; Department of Medicine, Université Laval Quebec City, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Quintero-Hernández V, Jiménez-Vargas J, Gurrola G, Valdivia H, Possani L. Scorpion venom components that affect ion-channels function. Toxicon 2013; 76:328-42. [PMID: 23891887 PMCID: PMC4089097 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 197] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The number and types of venom components that affect ion-channel function are reviewed. These are the most important venom components responsible for human intoxication, deserving medical attention, often requiring the use of specific anti-venoms. Special emphasis is given to peptides that recognize Na(+)-, K(+)- and Ca(++)-channels of excitable cells. Knowledge generated by direct isolation of peptides from venom and components deduced from cloned genes, whose amino acid sequences are deposited into databanks are nowadays in the order of 1.5 thousands, out of an estimate biodiversity closed to 300,000. Here the diversity of components is briefly reviewed with mention to specific references. Structural characteristic are discussed with examples taken from published work. The principal mechanisms of action of the three different types of peptides are also reviewed. Na(+)-channel specific venom components usually are modifier of the open and closing kinetic mechanisms of the ion-channels, whereas peptides affecting K(+)-channels are normally pore blocking agents. The Ryanodine Ca(++)-channel specific peptides are known for causing sub-conducting stages of the channels conductance and some were shown to be able to internalize penetrating inside the muscle cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V. Quintero-Hernández
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico
| | - J.M. Jiménez-Vargas
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico
| | - G.B. Gurrola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico
- Cardiovascular Center 2139, Michigan University, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5644, U.S.A
| | - H.H.F. Valdivia
- Cardiovascular Center 2139, Michigan University, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5644, U.S.A
| | - L.D. Possani
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Valdez-Velázquez LL, Quintero-Hernández V, Romero-Gutiérrez MT, Coronas FIV, Possani LD. Mass fingerprinting of the venom and transcriptome of venom gland of scorpion Centruroides tecomanus. PLoS One 2013; 8:e66486. [PMID: 23840487 PMCID: PMC3688770 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Centruroides tecomanus is a Mexican scorpion endemic of the State of Colima, that causes human fatalities. This communication describes a proteome analysis obtained from milked venom and a transcriptome analysis from a cDNA library constructed from two pairs of venom glands of this scorpion. High perfomance liquid chromatography separation of soluble venom produced 80 fractions, from which at least 104 individual components were identified by mass spectrometry analysis, showing to contain molecular masses from 259 to 44,392 Da. Most of these components are within the expected molecular masses for Na+- and K+-channel specific toxic peptides, supporting the clinical findings of intoxication, when humans are stung by this scorpion. From the cDNA library 162 clones were randomly chosen, from which 130 sequences of good quality were identified and were clustered in 28 contigs containing, each, two or more expressed sequence tags (EST) and 49 singlets with only one EST. Deduced amino acid sequence analysis from 53% of the total ESTs showed that 81% (24 sequences) are similar to known toxic peptides that affect Na+-channel activity, and 19% (7 unique sequences) are similar to K+-channel especific toxins. Out of the 31 sequences, at least 8 peptides were confirmed by direct Edman degradation, using components isolated directly from the venom. The remaining 19%, 4%, 4%, 15% and 5% of the ESTs correspond respectively to proteins involved in cellular processes, antimicrobial peptides, venom components, proteins without defined function and sequences without similarity in databases. Among the cloned genes are those similar to metalloproteinases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fredy I. V. Coronas
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Lourival D. Possani
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Nie Y, Zeng XC, Luo X, Wu S, Zhang L, Cao H, Zhou J, Zhou L. Tremendous intron length differences of the BmKBT and a novel BmKBT-like peptide genes provide a mechanical basis for the rapid or constitutive expression of the peptides. Peptides 2012; 37:150-6. [PMID: 22705625 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2012.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 06/07/2012] [Accepted: 06/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The cDNA sequence encoding a novel BmKBT-like peptide (referred to as BmKBy) was cloned and sequenced from the scorpion Mesobuthus martensii Karsch. Functional analysis indicated that both BmKBT and BmKBy possess strong toxicity in mice, but very weak toxicity in cotton bollworm. Phylogenetic analysis showed that BmKBy and BmKBT represent evolutionary intermediates between the α- and β-toxins from scorpions. The genomic sequences of BmKBT and BmKBy were also obtained. It is interesting to see that two genes, which contain an intron of 225 and 1529bp, respectively, exactly code for the BmKBT peptide. One gene, which contains an intron of 1312bp, codes for BmKBy. Given that genes with long introns favor constitutive expression, whereas those with short introns are rapidly regulated in response to stimulations, the BmKBT_a and BmKBT_b genes provide a mechanical basis for either constitutive expression or rapid generation of the toxic peptides in response to different signals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Nie
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, School of Environmental Studies & State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan 430074, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Schwartz EF, Mourão CBF, Moreira KG, Camargos TS, Mortari MR. Arthropod venoms: A vast arsenal of insecticidal neuropeptides. Biopolymers 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/bip.22100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
25
|
Chen R, Chung SH. Conserved functional surface of antimammalian scorpion β-toxins. J Phys Chem B 2012; 116:4796-800. [PMID: 22471309 DOI: 10.1021/jp300127j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Scorpion β-toxins bind to the voltage-sensing domain of voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels and trap the voltage-sensing domain in the activated state. Two structurally similar β-toxins from scorpions, Css4 and Cn2, selectively target different subtypes of mammalian NaV channels. While the receptor site on the channels is known, the functional surface of the toxins remains to be understood. Here, we predict the binding modes of Css4 and Cn2 to the voltage-sensing domains of NaV1.2 and NaV1.6, respectively, with a molecular docking method and molecular dynamics simulations. The dissociation constants for the predicted toxin-channel complexes derived with umbrella sampling simulations are in accord with experiment. Our calculations suggest that the functional surface of Cn2 and Css4 is primarily formed by the loop between positions 8 and 18, centered on the two charged residues Lys13 and Glu15.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rong Chen
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University , Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Saucedo AL, del Rio-Portilla F, Picco C, Estrada G, Prestipino G, Possani LD, Delepierre M, Corzo G. Solution structure of native and recombinant expressed toxin CssII from the venom of the scorpion Centruroides suffusus suffusus, and their effects on Nav1.5 Sodium channels. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2012; 1824:478-87. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2012.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2011] [Revised: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 01/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
27
|
Fabrichny IP, Mondielli G, Conrod S, Martin-Eauclaire MF, Bourne Y, Marchot P. Structural insights into antibody sequestering and neutralizing of Na+ channel α-type modulator from old world scorpion venom. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:14136-48. [PMID: 22371498 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.315382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The Old World scorpion Androctonus australis hector (Aah) produces one of the most lethal venoms for humans. Peptidic α-toxins AahI to AahIV are responsible for its potency, with AahII accounting for half of it. All four toxins are high affinity blockers of the fast inactivation phase of mammalian voltage-activated Na(+) channels. However, the high antigenic polymorphism of α-toxins prevents production of a polyvalent neutralizing antiserum, whereas the determinants dictating their trapping by neutralizing antibodies remain elusive. From an anti-AahII mAb, we generated an antigen binding fragment (Fab) with high affinity and selectivity for AahII and solved a 2.3 Å-resolution crystal structure of the complex. Sequestering of the C-terminal region of the bound toxin within a groove formed by the Fab combining loops is associated with a toxin orientation and main and side chain conformations that dictate the AahII antigenic specificity and efficient neutralization. From an anti-AahI mAb, we also preformed and crystallized a high affinity AahI-Fab complex. The 1.6 Å-resolution structure solved revealed a Fab molecule devoid of a bound AahI and with combining loops involved in packing interactions, denoting expulsion of the bound antigen upon crystal formation. Comparative analysis of the groove-like combining site of the toxin-bound anti-AahII Fab and planar combining surface of the unbound anti-AahI Fab along with complementary data from a flexible docking approach suggests occurrence of distinctive trapping orientations for the two toxins relative to their respective Fab. This study provides complementary templates for designing new molecules aimed at capturing Aah α-toxins and suitable for immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Igor P Fabrichny
- Faculté de Médecine Secteur Nord, Centre de Recherche en Neurobiologie-Neurophysiologie de Marseille, CRN2M, CNRS/Aix-Marseille Université UMR-6231, Institut Fédératif de Recherche Jean Roche, CS80011, F-13344 Marseille cedex 15, France
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Schiavon E, Pedraza-Escalona M, Gurrola GB, Olamendi-Portugal T, Corzo G, Wanke E, Possani LD. Negative-shift activation, current reduction and resurgent currents induced by β-toxins from Centruroides scorpions in sodium channels. Toxicon 2011; 59:283-93. [PMID: 22200496 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2011.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2011] [Revised: 12/03/2011] [Accepted: 12/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The β-toxins purified from the New World scorpion venoms of the Centruroides species affect several voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) and thus are essential tools not only for the discrimination of different channel sub-types but also for studying the structure-function relationship between channels and toxins. This communication reports the results obtained with four different peptides purified from three species of Centruroides scorpions and assayed on seven distinct isoforms of VGSC (Na(v)1.1-Na(v)1.7) by specific functional analysis conducted through single cell electrophysiology. The toxins studied were CssII from Centruroides suffusus suffusus, Cll1 and Cll2 from Centruroides limpidus limpidus and a novel toxin from Centruroides noxius, which was characterized for the first time here. It has 67 amino acid residues and four disulfide bridges with a molecular mass of 7626 Da. Three different functional features were identified: current reduction of macroscopic conductance, left shift of the voltage-dependent activation and induction of resurgent currents at negative voltages following brief, strong depolarizations. The isoforms which revealed to be more affected resulted to be Na(v)1.6 > 1.1 > 1.2 and, for the first time, a β-toxin is here shown to induce resurgent current also in isoforms different from Na(v)1.6. Additionally, these results were analyzed with molecular modelling. In conclusion, although the four toxins have a high degree of identity, they display tri-modal function, each of which shows selectivity among the different sub-types of Na+ -channels. Thus, they are invaluable as tools for structure-function studies of β-toxins and offer a basis for the design of novel ion channel-specific drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Schiavon
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Bosmans F, Puopolo M, Martin-Eauclaire MF, Bean BP, Swartz KJ. Functional properties and toxin pharmacology of a dorsal root ganglion sodium channel viewed through its voltage sensors. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 138:59-72. [PMID: 21670206 PMCID: PMC3135324 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201110614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The voltage-activated sodium (Nav) channel Nav1.9 is expressed in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons where it is believed to play an important role in nociception. Progress in revealing the functional properties and pharmacological sensitivities of this non-canonical Nav channel has been slow because attempts to express this channel in a heterologous expression system have been unsuccessful. Here, we use a protein engineering approach to dissect the contributions of the four Nav1.9 voltage sensors to channel function and pharmacology. We define individual S3b–S4 paddle motifs within each voltage sensor, and show that they can sense changes in membrane voltage and drive voltage sensor activation when transplanted into voltage-activated potassium channels. We also find that the paddle motifs in Nav1.9 are targeted by animal toxins, and that these toxins alter Nav1.9-mediated currents in DRG neurons. Our results demonstrate that slowly activating and inactivating Nav1.9 channels have functional and pharmacological properties in common with canonical Nav channels, but also show distinctive pharmacological sensitivities that can potentially be exploited for developing novel treatments for pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Bosmans
- Molecular Physiology and Biophysics Section, Porter Neuroscience Research Center, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. Frank.Bosmans@-nih.gov
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Fang GM, Li YM, Shen F, Huang YC, Li JB, Lin Y, Cui HK, Liu L. Protein Chemical Synthesis by Ligation of Peptide Hydrazides. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201100996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
|
31
|
Fang GM, Li YM, Shen F, Huang YC, Li JB, Lin Y, Cui HK, Liu L. Protein chemical synthesis by ligation of peptide hydrazides. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2011; 50:7645-9. [PMID: 21648030 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201100996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 582] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ge-Min Fang
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abbas N, Rosso JP, Céard B, Belghazi M, Lebrun R, Bougis PE, Martin-Eauclaire MF. Characterization of three "Birtoxin-like" toxins from the Androctonus amoreuxi scorpion venom. Peptides 2011; 32:911-9. [PMID: 21335045 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2011.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2010] [Revised: 02/07/2011] [Accepted: 02/09/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The venom of the North African scorpion Androctonus amoreuxi (Aam) was analyzed using a combination of gel filtration, C18 reverse phase HPLC together with mass spectrometry analysis and bioassays. Three novel Birtoxin-like (BTX-L) peptides of 58 amino acid residues comprising three disulfide bridges were isolated and chemically characterized. One peptide, AamBTX-L3, induced serious toxic symptoms in mice and was lethal at nanogram quantities using intracerebroventricular injection. The three BTX-L peptides were tested in competition experiments on rat brain synaptosomes against the (125)I-labeled "classical" α- and β-toxins of reference, as well as with the (125)I-KTX, a voltage-gated potassium channel blocker. Only AamBTX-L3 was able to prevent the equilibrium binding of the β-toxin (125)I-Css IV to its receptor site 4 with a IC(50) value of 189 nM. Even if previous electrophysiological data allowed the classification of other BTX-L peptides among the β-type toxins, this report clearly shows that AamBTX-L3 is pharmacologically a β-toxin, which recognizes the voltage-gated Na(+) (Na(v)) channels from central mammalian neurons. In order to uncover the residues functionally essential for interaction between the AamBTX-L3 with the putative receptor site of (125)I-Css IV on Na(v)1.2, molecular models of the three novel Aam BTX-L molecules were made and their surfaces were compared to the already described Css IV biologically interactive surfaces. A hypothesis is given that in BTX-L3, three residues found in the α-helix play a key role during target binding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Najwa Abbas
- CNRS UMR6231, CRN2M, Université de la Méditerranée, Faculté de Médecine secteur Nord, CS80011, Bd Pierre Dramard, F-13344 Marseille Cedex 15, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Espino-Solis GP, Estrada G, Olamendi-Portugal T, Villegas E, Zamudio F, Cestele S, Possani LD, Corzo G. Isolation and molecular cloning of beta-neurotoxins from the venom of the scorpion Centruroides suffusus suffusus. Toxicon 2011; 57:739-46. [PMID: 21329715 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2011.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2010] [Revised: 01/27/2011] [Accepted: 02/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This communication reports the identification and characterization of two new toxins from the venom of the scorpion Centruroides suffusus suffusus, named: CssVIII and CssIX, according to the original nomenclature of toxins previously described for this scorpion. The isolation was obtained by means of two chromatographic steps, and a cDNA library was used to fully identify their precursors. CssVIII and CssIX contain signal peptides of 19 and 17 amino acid residues, and mature peptides of 66 and 65 residues, respectively. Intracranial injections into mice of both purified toxins showed toxicity results similar to those found for toxins CssII and CssIV. Additionally, they compete with the parent toxin CssIV, in binding and displacement experiments, conducted with brain synaptosomes showing nanomolar affinities. These results strongly support the conclusion that they are new β-neurotoxins and certainly would be of the interest of researchers in the field of venomics for studying sodium channels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Pavel Espino-Solis
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 61500, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Solution structure of Cn5, a crustacean toxin found in the venom of the scorpions Centruroides noxius and Centruroides suffusus suffusus. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-PROTEINS AND PROTEOMICS 2009; 1794:1591-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbapap.2009.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2009] [Revised: 06/30/2009] [Accepted: 07/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
35
|
Heterologous expressed toxic and non-toxic peptide variants of toxin CssII are capable to produce neutralizing antibodies against the venom of the scorpion Centruroides suffusus suffusus. Immunol Lett 2009; 125:93-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2009.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2009] [Revised: 05/20/2009] [Accepted: 06/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
36
|
Gordon D, Savarin P, Gurevitz M, Zinn-Justin S. Functional Anatomy of Scorpion Toxins Affecting Sodium Channels. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.3109/15569549809009247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
37
|
Abbas N, Belghazi M, Abdel-Mottaleb Y, Tytgat J, Bougis PE, Martin-Eauclaire MF. A new Kaliotoxin selective towards Kv1.3 and Kv1.2 but not Kv1.1 channels expressed in oocytes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2008; 376:525-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2008.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2008] [Accepted: 09/05/2008] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
|
38
|
Lima MED, Martin-Eauclaire MF. The Toxins Purified fromTityus Serrulatus(Lutz & Mello)Venom. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.3109/15569549509019474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
39
|
Biochemical characterization of cysteine-rich peptides from Oxyopes sp. venom that block calcium ion channels. Toxicon 2008; 52:228-36. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2008.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2008] [Revised: 04/01/2008] [Accepted: 05/01/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
40
|
Estrada G, Garcia BI, Schiavon E, Ortiz E, Cestele S, Wanke E, Possani LD, Corzo G. Four disulfide-bridged scorpion beta neurotoxin CssII: Heterologous expression and proper folding in vitro. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2007; 1770:1161-8. [PMID: 17544584 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2007.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2006] [Revised: 03/29/2007] [Accepted: 04/20/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The gene of the four disulfide-bridged Centruroides suffusus suffusus toxin II was cloned into the expression vector pQE30 containing a 6His-tag and a FXa proteolytic cleavage region. This recombinant vector was transfected into Escherichia coli BL21 cells and expressed under induction with isopropyl thiogalactoside (IPTG). The level of expression was 24.6 mg/l of culture medium, and the His tagged recombinant toxin (HisrCssII) was found exclusively in inclusion bodies. After solubilization the HisrCssII peptide was purified by affinity and hydrophobic interaction chromatography. The reverse-phase HPLC profile of the HisrCssII product obtained from the affinity chromatography step showed several peptide fractions having the same molecular mass of 9392.6 Da, indicating that HisrCssII was oxidized forming several distinct disulfide bridge arrangements. The multiple forms of HisrCssII after reduction eluted from the column as a single protein component of 9400.6 Da. Similarly, an in vitro folding of the reduced HisrCssII generated a single oxidized component of HisrCssII, which was cleaved by the proteolytic enzyme FXa to the recombinant CssII (rCssII). The molecular mass of rCssII was 7538.6 Da as expected. Since native CssII (nCssII) is amidated at the C-terminal residue whereas the rCssII is heterologously expressed in the format of free carboxyl end, there is a difference of 1 Da, when comparing both peptides (native versus heterologously expressed). Nevertheless, they show similar toxicity when injected intracranially into mice, and both nCssII and rCssII show the typical electrophysiological properties of beta-toxins in Na(v)1.6 channels, which is for the first time demonstrated here. Binding and displacement experiments conducted with radiolabelled CssII confirms the electrophysiological results. Several problems associated with the heterologously expressed toxins containing four disulfide bridges are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgina Estrada
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM. Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca Morelos, 62250, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Gurevitz M, Karbat I, Cohen L, Ilan N, Kahn R, Turkov M, Stankiewicz M, Stühmer W, Dong K, Gordon D. The insecticidal potential of scorpion β-toxins. Toxicon 2007; 49:473-89. [PMID: 17197009 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2006.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2006] [Accepted: 11/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels are a major target for toxins and insecticides due to their central role in excitability, but due to the conservation of these channels in Animalia most insecticides do not distinguish between those of insects and mammals, thereby imposing risks to humans and livestock. Evidently, as long as modern agriculture depends heavily on the use of insecticides there is a great need for new substances capable of differentiating between sodium channel subtypes. Such substances exist in venomous animals, but ways for their exploitation have not yet been developed due to problems associated with manufacturing, degradation, and delivery to the target channels. Engineering of plants for expression of anti-insect toxins or use of natural vectors that express toxins near their target site (e.g. baculoviruses) are still problematic and raise public concern. In this problematic reality a rational approach might be to learn from nature how to design highly selective anti-insect compounds preferably in the form of peptidomimetics. This is a complex task that requires the elucidation of the face of interaction between insect-selective toxins and their sodium channel receptor sites. This review delineates current progress in: (i) elucidation of the bioactive surfaces of scorpion beta-toxins, especially the excitatory and depressant groups, which show high preference for insects and bind insect sodium channels with high affinity; (ii) studies of the mode of interaction of scorpion beta-toxins with receptor site-4 on voltage-gated sodium channels; and (iii) clarification of channel elements that constitute receptor site-4. This information may be useful in future attempts to mimic the bioactive surface of the toxins for the design of anti-insect selective peptidomimetics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Gurevitz
- Department of Plant Sciences, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv 69978, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
de la Vega RCR, Possani LD. Novel paradigms on scorpion toxins that affects the activating mechanism of sodium channels. Toxicon 2007; 49:171-80. [PMID: 17081580 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2006.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Scorpion toxins classified as beta-class are reviewed using a new paradigm. Four distinct sub types are recognized: "classical", "Tsgamma-like", "excitatory" and "depressant"beta-scorpion toxins. Recent experimental data have made possible to identify the interacting interfaces of the Na(+) channel-receptor site 4 with some of these toxins. The voltage-sensor trapping mechanism proposed for the action of these toxic peptides is analyzed in the context of what causes a modification of the activating mechanism of Na(+) channels. A cartoon model is presented with the purpose of summarizing the most current knowledge on the field. Finally, the recent advances on the knowledge of the specific interactions of beta-toxins and different sub types of Na(+) channels are also reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo C Rodríguez de la Vega
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Institute of Biotechnology, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Av. Universidad 2001, Cuernavaca Morelos 62210, México.
| | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Cestèle S, Yarov-Yarovoy V, Qu Y, Sampieri F, Scheuer T, Catterall WA. Structure and function of the voltage sensor of sodium channels probed by a beta-scorpion toxin. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:21332-21344. [PMID: 16679310 PMCID: PMC1551974 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m603814200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Voltage sensing by voltage-gated sodium channels determines the electrical excitability of cells, but the molecular mechanism is unknown. beta-Scorpion toxins bind specifically to neurotoxin receptor site 4 and induce a negative shift in the voltage dependence of activation through a voltage sensor-trapping mechanism. Kinetic analysis showed that beta-scorpion toxin binds to the resting state, and subsequently the bound toxin traps the voltage sensor in the activated state in a voltage-dependent but concentration-independent manner. The rate of voltage sensor trapping can be fit by a two-step model, in which the first step is voltage-dependent and correlates with the outward gating movement of the IIS4 segment, whereas the second step is voltage-independent and results in shifted voltage dependence of activation of the channel. Mutations of Glu(779) in extracellular loop IIS1-S2 and both Glu(837) and Leu(840) in extracellular loop IIS3-S4 reduce the binding affinity of beta-scorpion toxin. Mutations of positively charged and hydrophobic amino acid residues in the IIS4 segment do not affect beta-scorpion toxin binding but alter voltage dependence of activation and enhance beta-scorpion toxin action. Structural modeling with the Rosetta algorithm yielded a three-dimensional model of the toxin-receptor complex with the IIS4 voltage sensor at the extracellular surface. Our results provide mechanistic and structural insight into the voltage sensor-trapping mode of scorpion toxin action, define the position of the voltage sensor in the resting state of the sodium channel, and favor voltage-sensing models in which the S4 segment spans the membrane in both resting and activated states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Cestèle
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-7280; Facultéde Medecine Nord, Université de la Mediterranée, Bd. Pierre Dramard, 13916 Marseille Cedex 20, France
| | | | - Yusheng Qu
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-7280
| | - François Sampieri
- Facultéde Medecine Nord, Université de la Mediterranée, Bd. Pierre Dramard, 13916 Marseille Cedex 20, France
| | - Todd Scheuer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-7280
| | - William A Catterall
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195-7280.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Schiavon E, Sacco T, Cassulini RR, Gurrola G, Tempia F, Possani LD, Wanke E. Resurgent Current and Voltage Sensor Trapping Enhanced Activation by a β-Scorpion Toxin Solely in Nav1.6 Channel. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:20326-37. [PMID: 16702217 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m600565200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Resurgent currents are functionally crucial in sustaining the high frequency firing of cerebellar Purkinje neurons expressing Na(v)1.6 channels. Beta-scorpion toxins, such as CssIV, induce a left shift in the voltage-dependent activation of Na(v)1.2 channels by "trapping" the IIS4 voltage sensor segment. We found that the dangerous Cn2 beta-scorpion peptide induces both the left shift voltage-dependent activation and a transient resurgent current only in human Na(v)1.6 channels (among 1.1-1.7), whereas CssIV did not induce the resurgent current. Cn2 also produced both actions in mouse Purkinje cells. These findings suggest that only distinct beta-toxins produce resurgent currents. We suggest that the novel and unique selectivity of Cn2 could make it a model drug to replace deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus in patients with Parkinson disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Schiavon
- Department of Biotechnologies and Biosciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan 20126, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Cohen L, Gilles N, Karbat I, Ilan N, Gordon D, Gurevitz M. Direct evidence that receptor site-4 of sodium channel gating modifiers is not dipped in the phospholipid bilayer of neuronal membranes. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:20673-20679. [PMID: 16720570 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m603212200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In a recent note to Nature, R. MacKinnon has raised the possibility that potassium channel gating modifiers are able to partition in the phospholipid bilayer of neuronal membranes and that by increasing their partial concentration adjacent to their receptor, they affect channel function with apparent high affinity (Lee and MacKinnon (2004) Nature 430, 232-235). This suggestion was adopted by Smith et al. (Smith, J. J., Alphy, S., Seibert, A. L., and Blumenthal, K. M. (2005) J. Biol. Chem. 280, 11127-11133), who analyzed the partitioning of sodium channel modifiers in liposomes. They found that certain modifiers were able to partition in these artificial membranes, and on this basis, they have extrapolated that scorpion beta-toxins interact with their channel receptor in a similar mechanism as that proposed by MacKinnon. Since this hypothesis has actually raised a new conception, we examined it in binding assays using a number of pharmacologically distinct scorpion beta-toxins and insect and mammalian neuronal membrane preparations, as well as by analyzing the rate by which the toxin effect on gating of Drosophila DmNa(v)1 and rat brain rNa(v)1.2a develops. We show that in general, scorpion beta-toxins do not partition in neuronal membranes and that in the case in which a depressant beta-toxin partitions in insect neuronal membranes, this partitioning is unrelated to its interaction with the receptor site and the effect on the gating properties of the sodium channel. These results negate the hypothesis that the high affinity of beta-toxins for sodium channels is gained by their ability to partition in the phospholipid bilayer and clearly indicate that the receptor site for scorpion beta-toxins is accessible to the extracellular solvent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lior Cohen
- Department of Plant Sciences, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv 69978, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Nicolas Gilles
- Commissariat à l'Energie Atomique, Department d'Ingenierie et d'Etudes des Proteines, C.E. Saclay, F-91191 Gif Sur Yvette Cedex, France
| | - Izhar Karbat
- Department of Plant Sciences, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv 69978, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Nitza Ilan
- Department of Plant Sciences, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv 69978, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | - Dalia Gordon
- Department of Plant Sciences, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv 69978, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
| | - Michael Gurevitz
- Department of Plant Sciences, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv 69978, Tel-Aviv, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Mantegazza M, Cestèle S. Beta-scorpion toxin effects suggest electrostatic interactions in domain II of voltage-dependent sodium channels. J Physiol 2005; 568:13-30. [PMID: 16020455 PMCID: PMC1474769 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2005.093484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Beta-scorpion toxins specifically modulate the voltage dependence of sodium channel activation by acting through a voltage-sensor trapping model. We used mutagenesis, functional analysis and the action of beta-toxin as tools to investigate the existence and role in channel activation of molecular interactions between the charged residues of the S2, S3 and S4 segments in domain II of sodium channels. Mutating to arginine the acidic residues of the S2 and S3 transmembrane segments in domain II, or making charge-reversal mutation of the two outermost gating charges of the IIS4 voltage sensor, shifts the voltage dependence of channel activation to more positive potentials and enhances the effect of beta-scorpion toxin. Thus, mutations of acidic residues in IIS2 and IIS3 segments are able to promote voltage-sensor trapping in a way that is similar to the mutations of the arginines in the IIS4 segment. In order to disclose the network of interactions among acidic and basic residues we performed functional analysis of charge-inversion double mutants: our data suggest that the first arginine of the voltage sensor S4 in domain II (R850) interacts specifically with E805, D814 and E821 in the S2 and S3 segments, whereas the second arginine (R853) only interacts with D827 in the S3 segment. Our results suggest that the S2, S3 and S4 segments in domain II form a voltage-sensing structure, and that molecular interactions between the charged residues of this structure modulate the availability of the IIS4 voltage sensor for trapping by beta-toxins. They also provide unique insights into the molecular events that occur during channel activation, as well as into the structure of the channel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Mantegazza
- Dipartimento di Neurofisiopatologia, Istituto Neurologico Besta, Milano, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Cohen L, Karbat I, Gilles N, Ilan N, Benveniste M, Gordon D, Gurevitz M. Common features in the functional surface of scorpion beta-toxins and elements that confer specificity for insect and mammalian voltage-gated sodium channels. J Biol Chem 2004; 280:5045-53. [PMID: 15569679 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m408427200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpion beta-toxins that affect the activation of mammalian voltage-gated sodium channels (Navs) have been studied extensively, but little is known about their functional surface and mode of interaction with the channel receptor. To enable a molecular approach to this question, we have established a successful expression system for the anti-mammalian scorpion beta-toxin, Css4, whose effects on rat brain Navs have been well characterized. A recombinant toxin, His-Css4, was obtained when fused to a His tag and a thrombin cleavage site and had similar binding affinity for and effect on Na currents of rat brain sodium channels as those of the native toxin isolated from the scorpion venom. Molecular dissection of His-Css4 elucidated a functional surface of 1245 A2 composed of the following: 1) a cluster of residues associated with the alpha-helix, which includes a putative "hot spot" (this cluster is conserved among scorpion beta-toxins and contains their "pharmacophore"); 2) a hydrophobic cluster associated mainly with the beta2 and beta3 strands, which is likely to confer the specificity for mammalian Navs; 3) a single bioactive residue (Trp-58) in the C-tail; and 4) a negatively charged residue (Glu-15) involved in voltage sensor trapping as inferred from our ability to uncouple toxin binding from activity upon its substitution. This study expands our understanding about the mode of action of scorpion beta-toxins and illuminates differences in the functional surfaces that may dictate their specificities for mammalian versus insect sodium channels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lior Cohen
- Department of Plant Sciences, George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Ramat-Aviv 69978, Tel-Aviv, Israel
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Abstract
Neurodegeneration induced by excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate is considered to be of particular relevance in several types of acute and chronic neurological impairments ranging from cerebral ischaemia to neuropathological conditions such as motor neuron disease, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease and epilepsy. The hyperexcitation of glutamate receptors coupled with calcium overload can be prevented or modulated by using well-established competitive and non-competitive antagonists targeting ion/receptor channels. The exponentially increasing body of pharmacological evidence over the years indicates potential applications of peptide toxins, due to their exquisite subtype selectivity on ion channels and receptors, as lead structures for the development of drugs for the treatment of wide variety of neurological disorders. This review comprehensively highlights the overview of the diversity in the molecular as well as neurobiological mechanisms of different peptide toxins derived from venomous animals with particular reference to neuroprotection. In addition, the potential applications of peptide toxins in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders such as neuromuscular disorders, epilepsy, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, gliomas and ischaemic stroke and their future prospects in the diagnosis as well as in the therapy are addressed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wudayagiri Rajendra
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, National University of Singapore, 8 Medical Drive, Singapore 117597, Singapore
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Borges A, Alfonzo MJ, García CC, Winand NJ, Leipold E, Heinemann SH. Isolation, molecular cloning and functional characterization of a novel beta-toxin from the Venezuelan scorpion, Tityus zulianus. Toxicon 2004; 43:671-84. [PMID: 15109888 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2004.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2003] [Revised: 02/26/2004] [Accepted: 02/27/2004] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Sting in children by Tityus zulianus scorpions (western Venezuela) often produces cardiorespiratory arrest and death by pulmonary oedema. To assess its toxicity, lethality in mice of T. zulianus soluble venom was determined. Toxin composition was studied by fractionating the crude venom through reversed-phase HPLC. The most abundant peptide, Tz1, was purified further and its N-terminal sequence, amino acid composition and molecular mass (by electron-spray ionization mass spectrometry) determined. In the presence of Tz1, activation of recombinant rat skeletal muscle sodium channels (Na(V)1.4) was shifted about 35 mV in the hyperpolarizing direction in a prepulse-dependent manner. This typical beta-toxin effect had an apparent EC50 of 3.5 microM A cDNA sequence encoding Tz1 was isolated from T. zulianus venom gland RNA using a combination of 5'- and 3'-RACE PCR. Analysis of the encoded sequence indicated that Tz1 is the processed product of a precursor containing: (i) a 20-residue long leader peptide; (ii) the amino acid sequence of the mature toxin (64 residues); and (iii) an extra Gly-Lys tail at the C-terminus, probably removed post-translationally. A comparison of Tz1 with Tityus serrulatus beta-toxin Ts1 revealed that some of the non-conservative replacements in Tz1 lie in regions potentially involved in receptor recognition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Borges
- Sección de Biomembranas, Instituto de Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Box 50587, Sabana Grande, Caracas 1051, Venezuela.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Distinct primary structures of the major peptide toxins from the venom of the spider Macrothele gigas that bind to sites 3 and 4 in the sodium channel. FEBS Lett 2003; 547:43-50. [PMID: 12860384 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-5793(03)00666-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Six peptide toxins (Magi 1-6) were isolated from the Hexathelidae spider Macrothele gigas. The amino acid sequences of Magi 1, 2, 5 and 6 have low similarities to the amino acid sequences of known spider toxins. The primary structure of Magi 3 is similar to the structure of the palmitoylated peptide named PlTx-II from the North American spider Plectreurys tristis (Plectreuridae). Moreover, the amino acid sequence of Magi 4, which was revealed by cloning of its cDNA, displays similarities to the Na+ channel modifier delta-atracotoxin from the Australian spider Atrax robustus (Hexathelidae). Competitive binding assays using several 125I-labelled peptide toxins clearly demonstrated the specific binding affinity of Magi 1-5 to site 3 of the insect sodium channel and also that of Magi 5 to site 4 of the rat sodium channel. Only Magi 6 did not compete with the scorpion toxin LqhalphaIT in binding to site 3 despite high toxicity on lepidoptera larvae of 3.1 nmol/g. The K(i)s of other toxins were between 50 pM for Magi 4 and 1747 nM for Magi 1. In addition, only Magi 5 binds to both site 3 in insects (K(i)=267 nM) and site 4 in rat brain synaptosomes (K(i)=1.2 nM), whereas it showed no affinities for either mammal binding site 3 or insect binding site 4. Magi 5 is the first spider toxin with binding affinity to site 4 of a mammalian sodium channel.
Collapse
|