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He D, Hu S, Huang Z, Mo C, Cheng X, Song P, Li Y, Song T, Guan Z, Zhou Y, Zhang X, Liao M. Metabolomics analyses of serum metabolites perturbations associated with Naja atra bite. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011507. [PMID: 37639406 PMCID: PMC10461852 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Naja atra bite is one of the most common severe snakebites in emergency departments. Unfortunately, the pathophysiological changes caused by Naja atra bite are unclear due to the lack of good animal models. In this study, an animal model of Naja atra bite in Guangxi Bama miniature pigs was established by intramuscular injection at 2 mg/kg of Naja atra venom, and serum metabolites were systematically analyzed using untargeted metabolomic and targeted metabolomic approaches. Untargeted metabolomic analysis revealed that 5045 chromatographic peaks were obtained in ESI+ and 3871 chromatographic peaks were obtained in ESI-. Screening in ESI+ modes and ESI- modes identified 22 and 36 differential metabolites compared to controls. The presence of 8 core metabolites of glutamine, arginine, proline, leucine, phenylalanine, inosine, thymidine and hippuric acid in the process of Naja atra bite was verified by targeted metabolomics significant difference (P<0.05). At the same time, during the verification process of the serum clinical samples with Naja atra bite, we found that the contents of three metabolites of proline, phenylalanine and inosine in the serum of the patients were significantly different from those of the normal human serum (P<0.05). By conducting functional analysis of core and metabolic pathway analysis, we revealed a potential correlation between changes in key metabolites after the Naja atra bite and the resulting pathophysiological alterations, and our research aims to establish a theoretical foundation for the prompt diagnosis and treatment of Naja atra bite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongling He
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Shaocong Hu
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Zhi Huang
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Caifeng Mo
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Xiaoyang Cheng
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Pengshu Song
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Yalan Li
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Tianlin Song
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Zhezhe Guan
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Xuerong Zhang
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
| | - Ming Liao
- Life Science Institute Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, PR China
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Pantaleão HQ, Araujo da Silva JC, Rufino da Silva B, Echeverry MB, Alberto-Silva C. Peptide fraction from B. jararaca snake venom protects against oxidative stress-induced changes in neuronal PC12 cell but not in astrocyte-like C6 cell. Toxicon 2023; 231:107178. [PMID: 37302421 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107178] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Venom-derived proteins and peptides have prevented neuronal cell loss, damage, and death in the study of neurodegenerative disorders. The cytoprotective effects of the peptide fraction (PF) from Bothrops jararaca snake venom were evaluated against oxidative stress changes in neuronal PC12 cells and astrocyte-like C6 cells. PC12 and C6 cells were pre-treated for 4 h with different concentrations of PF, and then H2O2 was added (0.5 mM in PC12 cells; 0.4 mM in C6 cells) and incubated for 20 h more. In PC12 cells, PF at 0.78 μg mL-1 increased viability (113.6 ± 6.3%) and metabolism (96.3 ± 10.3%) cell against H2O2-induced neurotoxicity (75.6 ± 5.8%; 66.5 ± 3.3%, respectively), reducing oxidative stress markers such as ROS generation, NO production, and arginase indirect activity through urea synthesis. Despite that, PF showed no cytoprotective effects in C6 cells, but potentiated the H2O2-induced damage at a concentration lower than 0.07 μg mL-1. Furthermore, the role of metabolites derived from L-arginine metabolism was verified in PF-mediated neuroprotection in PC12 cells, using specific inhibitors of two of the key enzymes in the L-arginine metabolic pathway: the α-Methyl-DL-aspartic acid (MDLA) to argininosuccinate synthetase (AsS), responsible for the recycling of L-citrulline to L-arginine; and, L-NΩ-Nitroarginine methyl ester (L-Name) to nitric oxide synthase (NOS), which catalyzes the synthesis of NO from L-arginine. The inhibition of AsS and NOS suppressed PF-mediated cytoprotection against oxidative stress, indicating that its mechanism is dependent on the production pathway of L-arginine metabolites such as NO and, more importantly, polyamines from ornithine metabolism, which are involved in the neuroprotection mechanism described in the literature. Overall, this work provides novel opportunities for evaluating whether the neuroprotective properties of PF shown in particular neuronal cells are sustained and for exploring potential drug development pathways for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halyne Queiroz Pantaleão
- Natural and Humanities Sciences Center (CCNH), Experimental Morphophysiology Laboratory Federal University of ABC (UFABC), São Bernardo Do Campo, 09606-070, SP, Brazil
| | - Julio Cezar Araujo da Silva
- Natural and Humanities Sciences Center (CCNH), Experimental Morphophysiology Laboratory Federal University of ABC (UFABC), São Bernardo Do Campo, 09606-070, SP, Brazil
| | - Brenda Rufino da Silva
- Natural and Humanities Sciences Center (CCNH), Experimental Morphophysiology Laboratory Federal University of ABC (UFABC), São Bernardo Do Campo, 09606-070, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcela Bermudez Echeverry
- Center for Mathematics, Computation and Cognition (CMCC), UFABC, São Bernardo Do Campo, 09606-070, SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos Alberto-Silva
- Natural and Humanities Sciences Center (CCNH), Experimental Morphophysiology Laboratory Federal University of ABC (UFABC), São Bernardo Do Campo, 09606-070, SP, Brazil.
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Rezaei Orimi J, Eskandarzadeh N, Amrollahi-Sharifabadi M, Miri V, Aghabeiglooei Z, Rezghi M. Analyzing the biological traits of snakes in Avicenna's Canon of medicine and making a comparison with contemporary serpentology. Toxicon 2023; 231:107198. [PMID: 37331525 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107198] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Snakes are a group of reptiles in the order of squamata that have been the subject of scientific research for years. This study aimed to determine the biological characteristics of snakes that were mentioned in Avicenna's Canon of Medicine to compare with modern serpentology. Data were obtained from the Canon of Medicine using keywords concerning snakes and also appropriate literature in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Scientific Information Database (SID), and IranDoc. Our results revealed that Avicenna divided snakes into three classes including highly, moderately, and slightly venomous snakes that are comparable to modern serpontology. Moreover, Avicenna clarified physiological factors such as age, gender, size, psychological state, hunger state, physical features, the type of living climate, habitat, and the time of snakebite. Considering the snake features presented in the Canon of Medicine, even though is not feasible to make a full comparison between Avicenna's snake knowledge and modern serpentology but some characteristics can be still applicable. Conclusively, the present study suggested that the criteria used for the identification and classification of snakes have changed from the medieval ages to the nowadays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamal Rezaei Orimi
- Traditional Medicine and History of Medical Sciences Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
| | | | | | - Vajihe Miri
- Department of Research Sciences, Faculty of Theology, Law and Political Sciences, Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zahra Aghabeiglooei
- Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maedeh Rezghi
- Traditional Medicine and History of Medical Sciences Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran; Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
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Singkham-In U, Thaveekarn W, Noiphrom J, Khow O, Ponwaranon S, Issara-Amphorn J, Sitprija V, Leelahavanichkul A. Hydrogen peroxide from L-amino acid oxidase of king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) venom attenuates Pseudomonas biofilms. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11304. [PMID: 37438396 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37914-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Because of the high incidence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms-related nosocomial infections, venoms from common Thai snakes were tested. Although venoms from king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah; OH) and green pit viper (Trimeresurus albolabris) showed the broadest antibacterial spectrum, OH venom demonstrated more profound anti-biofilm activities against P. aeruginosa. Additionally, purified L-amino acid oxidase from OH venom (OH-LAAO), using a three-step chromatography and protein identification, reduced biofilm mass as indicated by the downregulation of several genes, including the genes for biofilm synthesis (algD and pslB) and biofilm regulators (algU, gacA, and siaD). Moreover, OH-LAAO disrupted Pseudomonas-preformed biofilms via upregulation of several genes for biofilm dispersion (nbdA, bdlA, and dipA) and biofilm degradation (endA and pslG), resulting in a reduction of the biofilm biomass. Due to the antimicrobial effects and anti-biofilm activities (reduced production plus increased dispersion) neutralized by catalase, a hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-degrading enzyme, the enhanced H2O2 by OH venom might be one of the anti-biofilm mechanisms. Hence, OH-LAAO was proposed as a novel agent against Pseudomonas biofilms for either treatment or prevention. More studies are interesting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uthaibhorn Singkham-In
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Translational Research in Inflammatory and Immunology (CETRII), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Wichit Thaveekarn
- Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, 1871 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Jureeporn Noiphrom
- Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, 1871 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Orawan Khow
- Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, 1871 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Surada Ponwaranon
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Center of Excellence in Translational Research in Inflammatory and Immunology (CETRII), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Jiraphorn Issara-Amphorn
- Functional Cellular Networks Section, Laboratory of Immune System Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Visith Sitprija
- Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, 1871 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Asada Leelahavanichkul
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
- Center of Excellence in Translational Research in Inflammatory and Immunology (CETRII), Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, 1873 Rama 4 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
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de Melo Fernandes TA, Teixeira SC, Costa TR, Rosini AM, de Souza G, Polloni L, Barbosa BDF, Silva MJB, Ferro EAV, Ávila VDMR. BjussuLAAO-II, an l-amino acid oxidase from Bothrops jararacussu snake venom, impairs Toxoplasma gondii infection in human trophoblast cells and villous explants from the third trimester of pregnancy. Microbes Infect 2023; 25:105123. [PMID: 36870599 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2023.105123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
One-third of the world's population is estimated to be affected by toxoplasmosis. Pregnancy-related Toxoplasma gondii infection can cause vertical transmission, infect the fetus, and cause miscarriage, stillbirth, and fetal death. The current study showed that both human trophoblast cells (BeWo lineage) and human explant villous were resistant to T. gondii infection after incubation with BjussuLAAO-II, an l-amino acid oxidase isolated from Bothrops jararacussu. Almost 90% of the parasite's ability to proliferate in BeWo cells was decreased by the toxin at 1.56 μg/mL and showed an irreversible anti-T. gondii effect. Also, BjussuLAAO-II impaired the key events of adhesion and invasion of T. gondii tachyzoites in BeWo cells. BjussuLAAO-II antiparasitic properties were associated with the intracellular production of reactive oxygen species and hydrogen peroxide, since the presence of catalase restored the parasite's growth and invasion. In addition, T. gondii growth in human villous explants was decreased to approximately 51% by the toxin treatment at 12.5 μg/mL. Furthermore, BjussuLAAO-II treatment altered IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 and MIF cytokines levels, assuming a pro-inflammatory profile in the control of T. gondii infection. This study contributes to the potential use of a snake venom l-amino acid oxidase for the development of agents against congenital toxoplasmosis and the discovery of new targets in parasites and host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thales Alves de Melo Fernandes
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Animal Toxins, Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Campus Umuarama, St. Acre s/n, 38402-902, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | - Samuel Cota Teixeira
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Campus Umuarama, Av. Para, 1720, 38400-239, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | - Tássia Rafaela Costa
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Animal Toxins, Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Campus Umuarama, St. Acre s/n, 38402-902, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | - Alessandra Monteiro Rosini
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Campus Umuarama, Av. Para, 1720, 38400-239, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | - Guilherme de Souza
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Campus Umuarama, Av. Para, 1720, 38400-239, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | - Lorena Polloni
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Animal Toxins, Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Campus Umuarama, St. Acre s/n, 38402-902, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | - Bellisa de Freitas Barbosa
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Campus Umuarama, Av. Para, 1720, 38400-239, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | - Marcelo José Barbosa Silva
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Campus Umuarama, Av. Para, 1720, 38400-239, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | - Eloisa Amália Vieira Ferro
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Campus Umuarama, Av. Para, 1720, 38400-239, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | - Veridiana de Melo Rodrigues Ávila
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Animal Toxins, Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Campus Umuarama, St. Acre s/n, 38402-902, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
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Takayasu BS, Rodrigues SS, Madureira Trufen CE, Machado-Santelli GM, Onuki J. Effects on cell cycle progression and cytoskeleton organization of five Bothrops spp. venoms in cell culture-based assays. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18317. [PMID: 37539139 PMCID: PMC10393766 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18317] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Snake envenomation is a neglected tropical disease. In Brazil, the Bothrops genus is responsible for about 86% of snakebite accidents. Despite extensive evidence of the cytotoxicity of snake venoms, the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved are not fully understood, especially regarding the effects on cell cycle progression and cytoskeleton organization. Traditionally, the effectiveness and quality control tests of venoms and antivenoms are assessed by in vivo assays. Despite this, there is a rising effort to develop surrogate in vitro models according to the 3R principle (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement). In this study, we treated rat liver cells (BRL-3A) with venoms from five Bothrops species (B. jararaca, B. jararacussu, B. moojeni, B. alternatus, and B. neuwiedi) and analyzed cell viability and IC50 by MTT assay, cell cycle phases distribution by flow cytometry, and morphology and cytoskeleton alterations by immunofluorescence. In addition, we evaluated the correlation between IC50 and the enzymatic and biological activities of each venom. Our results indicated that Bothrops spp. venoms decreased the cell viability of rat liver BRL-3A cells. The rank order of potency was B. jararacussu > B. moojeni > B. alternatus > B. jararaca > B. neuwiedi. The mechanisms of cytotoxicity were related to microtubules and actin network disruption, but not to cell cycle arrest. No clear correlation was found between the IC50 and retrieved literature data of in vitro enzymatic and in vivo biological activities. This work contributed to understanding cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the Bothrops spp. venom cytotoxicity, which can help to improve envenomation treatment, as well as disclose potential therapeutic properties of snake venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Sayuri Takayasu
- Laboratory of Structural Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Glaucia Maria Machado-Santelli
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Janice Onuki
- Laboratory of Structural Biology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratory of Herpetology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
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Chen W, Yu H, Sun C, Dong M, Zhao N, Wang Y, Yu K, Zhang J, Xu N, Liu W. γ-Bungarotoxin impairs the vascular endothelial barrier function by inhibiting integrin α5. Toxicol Lett 2023; 383:177-191. [PMID: 37392970 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2023.06.009] [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: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
γ-bungarotoxin (γ-BGT) is an RGD motif-containing protein, derived from the venom of Bungarus multicinctus, leading to acute death in mice. These RGD motif-containing proteins from snake venom belonging to the disintegrin family can interfere with vascular endothelial homeostasis by directly binding cell surface integrins. Targeting integrins that generate vascular endothelial dysfunction may contribute to γ-BGT poisoning, however, the underlying mechanisms have not been investigated in detail. In this study, the results showed that γ-BGT played a role in -promoting the permeability of the vascular endothelial barrier. Depending on its selective binding to integrin α5 in vascular endothelium (VE), γ-BGT initiated downstream events, including focal adhesion kinase dephosphorylation and cytoskeleton remodeling, resulting in the intercellular junction interruption. Those alternations facilitated paracellular permeability of VE and barrier dysfunction. Proteomics profiling identified that as a downstream effector of the integrin α5 / FAK signaling pathway cyclin D1 partially mediated the cellular structural changes and barrier dysfunction. Furthermore, VE-released plasminogen activator urokinase and platelet-derived growth factor D could serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers for γ-BGT-induced vascular endothelial dysfunction. Our results indicate the mechanisms through which γ-BGT as a novel disintegrin directly interacts with the VE, with consequences for barrier dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, PR China
| | - Haotian Yu
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130122, Jilin, PR China
| | - Chengbiao Sun
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130122, Jilin, PR China
| | - Mingxin Dong
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130122, Jilin, PR China
| | - Na Zhao
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130122, Jilin, PR China
| | - Yan Wang
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130122, Jilin, PR China
| | - Kaikai Yu
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130122, Jilin, PR China
| | - Jianxu Zhang
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130122, Jilin, PR China
| | - Na Xu
- Jilin Medical University, Jilin 132013, Jilin, PR China.
| | - Wensen Liu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, PR China; Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun 130122, Jilin, PR China.
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Polloni L, Costa TR, Morais LP, Borges BC, Teixeira SC, de Melo Fernandes TA, Correia LIV, Bastos LM, Amorim FG, Quinton L, Soares AM, Silva MJB, Ferro EAV, Lopes DS, de Melo Rodrigues Ávila V. Oxidative stress induced by Pollonein-LAAO, a new L-amino acid oxidase from Bothrops moojeni venom, prompts prostate tumor spheroid cell death and impairs the cellular invasion process in vitro. Cell Signal 2023:110785. [PMID: 37364850 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells produce abnormal levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that contribute to promote their malignant phenotype. In this framework, we hypothesized that the change in ROS concentration above threshold could impair key events of prostate cancer cells (PC-3) progression. Our results demonstrated that Pollonein-LAAO, a new L-amino acid oxidase obtained from Bothrops moojeni venom, was cytotoxic to PC-3 cells in two-dimensional and in tumor spheroid assays. Pollonein-LAAO was able to increase the intracellular ROS generation that culminates in cell death from apoptosis by both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways due to the up-regulation of TP53, BAX, BAD, TNFRSF10B and CASP8. Additionally, Pollonein-LAAO reduced mitochondrial membrane potential and caused G0/G1 phase to delay, due to the up-regulation of CDKN1A and the down-regulation of the expression of CDK2 and E2F. Interestingly, Pollonein-LAAO inhibited critical steps of the cellular invasion process (migration, invasion and adhesion), due to the down-regulation of SNAI1, VIM, MMP2, ITGA2, ITGAV and ITGB3. Furthermore, the Pollonein-LAAO effects were associated with the intracellular ROS production, since the presence of catalase restored the invasiveness of PC-3 cells. In this sense, this study contributes to the potential use of Pollonein-LAAO as ROS-based agent to enhance the current understanding of cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Polloni
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | - Tássia Rafaella Costa
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Lorena Pinheiro Morais
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Bruna Cristina Borges
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Samuel Cota Teixeira
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | | | | | - Luciana Machado Bastos
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Loïc Quinton
- Department of Chemistry, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Andreimar Martins Soares
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ) Rondônia, Federal University of Rondônia (UNIR), and National Institute of Science and Technology of Epidemiology of the Western Amazon (INCT-EPIAMO), Porto Velho, RO, Brazil
| | | | | | - Daiana Silva Lopes
- Multidisciplinary Institute for Health, Federal University of Bahia - UFBA, Vitoria da Conquista, BA, Brazil
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Truong NV, Phan TTT, Hsu TS, Phu Duc P, Lin LY, Wu WG. Action mechanism of snake venom l-amino acid oxidase and its double-edged sword effect on cancer treatment: Role of pannexin 1-mediated interleukin-6 expression. Redox Biol 2023; 64:102791. [PMID: 37385076 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Snake venom l-amino acid oxidases (svLAAOs) have been recognized as promising candidates for anticancer therapeutics. However, multiple aspects of their catalytic mechanism and the overall responses of cancer cells to these redox enzymes remain ambiguous. Here, we present an analysis of the phylogenetic relationships and active site-related residues among svLAAOs and reveal that the previously proposed critical catalytic residue His 223 is highly conserved in the viperid but not the elapid svLAAO clade. To gain further insight into the action mechanism of the elapid svLAAOs, we purify and characterize the structural, biochemical, and anticancer therapeutic potentials of the Thailand elapid snake Naja kaouthia LAAO (NK-LAAO). We find that NK-LAAO, with Ser 223, exhibits high catalytic activity toward hydrophobic l-amino acid substrates. Moreover, NK-LAAO induces substantial oxidative stress-mediated cytotoxicity with the magnitude relying on both the levels of extracellular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during the enzymatic redox reactions, but not being influenced by the N-linked glycans on its surface. Unexpectedly, we discover a tolerant mechanism deployed by cancer cells to dampen the anticancer activities of NK-LAAO. NK-LAAO treatment amplifies interleukin (IL)-6 expression via the pannexin 1 (Panx1)-directed intracellular calcium (iCa2+) signaling pathway to confer adaptive and aggressive phenotypes on cancer cells. Accordingly, IL-6 silencing renders cancer cells vulnerable to NK-LAAO-induced oxidative stress together with abrogating NK-LAAO-stimulated metastatic acquisition. Collectively, our study urges caution when using svLAAOs in cancer treatment and identifies the Panx1/iCa2+/IL-6 axis as a therapeutic target for improving the effectiveness of svLAAOs-based anticancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nam V Truong
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, College of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 300044, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Trinh T T Phan
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 300044, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Tzu-Sheng Hsu
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 300044, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Phan Phu Duc
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, College of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 300044, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Lih-Yuan Lin
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 300044, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Wen-Guey Wu
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, College of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu, 300044, Taiwan, ROC.
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Salimo ZM, Barros AL, Adrião AAX, Rodrigues AM, Sartim MA, de Oliveira IS, Pucca MB, Baia-da-Silva DC, Monteiro WM, de Melo GC, Koolen HHF. Toxins from Animal Venoms as a Potential Source of Antimalarials: A Comprehensive Review. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:375. [PMID: 37368676 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15060375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria is an infectious disease caused by Plasmodium spp. and it is mainly transmitted to humans by female mosquitoes of the genus Anopheles. Malaria is an important global public health problem due to its high rates of morbidity and mortality. At present, drug therapies and vector control with insecticides are respectively the most commonly used methods for the treatment and control of malaria. However, several studies have shown the resistance of Plasmodium to drugs that are recommended for the treatment of malaria. In view of this, it is necessary to carry out studies to discover new antimalarial molecules as lead compounds for the development of new medicines. In this sense, in the last few decades, animal venoms have attracted attention as a potential source for new antimalarial molecules. Therefore, the aim of this review was to summarize animal venom toxins with antimalarial activity found in the literature. From this research, 50 isolated substances, 4 venom fractions and 7 venom extracts from animals such as anurans, spiders, scorpions, snakes, and bees were identified. These toxins act as inhibitors at different key points in the biological cycle of Plasmodium and may be important in the context of the resistance of Plasmodium to currently available antimalarial drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeca M Salimo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Metabolômica e Espectrometria de Massas, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69065-001, Brazil
| | - André L Barros
- Setor de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Nilton Lins, Manaus 69058-030, Brazil
| | - Asenate A X Adrião
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Metabolômica e Espectrometria de Massas, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69065-001, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia-Rede BIONORTE, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69065-001, Brazil
| | - Aline M Rodrigues
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Metabolômica e Espectrometria de Massas, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69065-001, Brazil
| | - Marco A Sartim
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia-Rede BIONORTE, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69065-001, Brazil
- Pro-Reitoria de Pesquisa e Pós-Graduação, Universidade Nilton Lins, Manaus 69058-030, Brazil
| | - Isadora S de Oliveira
- Departamento de Ciências BioMoleculares, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14040-903, Brazil
| | - Manuela B Pucca
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Roraima, Boa Vista 69317-810, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Roraima, Boa Vista 69317-810, Brazil
| | - Djane C Baia-da-Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Nilton Lins, Manaus 69058-030, Brazil
- Instituto Leônidas e Maria Deane, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Manaus 69057-070, Brazil
- Programa de Pós Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus 69080-900, Brazil
| | - Wuelton M Monteiro
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
| | - Gisely C de Melo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
| | - Hector H F Koolen
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Metabolômica e Espectrometria de Massas, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69065-001, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia-Rede BIONORTE, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus 69065-001, Brazil
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Avella I, Damm M, Freitas I, Wüster W, Lucchini N, Zuazo Ó, Süssmuth RD, Martínez-Freiría F. One Size Fits All-Venomics of the Iberian Adder ( Vipera seoanei, Lataste 1878) Reveals Low Levels of Venom Variation across Its Distributional Range. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:371. [PMID: 37368672 PMCID: PMC10301717 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15060371] [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: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
European vipers (genus Vipera) are medically important snakes displaying considerable venom variation, occurring at different levels in this group. The presence of intraspecific venom variation, however, remains understudied in several Vipera species. Vipera seoanei is a venomous snake endemic to the northern Iberian Peninsula and south-western France, presenting notable phenotypic variation and inhabiting several diverse habitats across its range. We analysed the venoms of 49 adult specimens of V. seoanei from 20 localities across the species' Iberian distribution. We used a pool of all individual venoms to generate a V. seoanei venom reference proteome, produced SDS-PAGE profiles of all venom samples, and visualised patterns of variation using NMDS. By applying linear regression, we then assessed presence and nature of venom variation between localities, and investigated the effect of 14 predictors (biological, eco-geographic, genetic) on its occurrence. The venom comprised at least 12 different toxin families, of which five (i.e., PLA2, svSP, DI, snaclec, svMP) accounted for about 75% of the whole proteome. The comparative analyses of the SDS-PAGE venom profiles showed them to be remarkably similar across the sampled localities, suggesting low geographic variability. The regression analyses suggested significant effects of biological and habitat predictors on the little variation we detected across the analysed V. seoanei venoms. Other factors were also significantly associated with the presence/absence of individual bands in the SDS-PAGE profiles. The low levels of venom variability we detected within V. seoanei might be the result of a recent population expansion, or of processes other than directional positive selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignazio Avella
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, InBIO Laboratório Associado, Campus de Vairão, Universidade do Porto, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal; (I.F.); (N.L.)
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairão, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
| | - Maik Damm
- Institut für Chemie, Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17. Juni 124, 10623 Berlin, Germany; (M.D.)
| | - Inês Freitas
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, InBIO Laboratório Associado, Campus de Vairão, Universidade do Porto, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal; (I.F.); (N.L.)
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairão, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
| | - Wolfgang Wüster
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution at Bangor, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK;
| | - Nahla Lucchini
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, InBIO Laboratório Associado, Campus de Vairão, Universidade do Porto, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal; (I.F.); (N.L.)
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal
- BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairão, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
| | - Óscar Zuazo
- Calle La Puebla 1, 26250 Santo Domingo de la Calzada, Spain
| | - Roderich D. Süssmuth
- Institut für Chemie, Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17. Juni 124, 10623 Berlin, Germany; (M.D.)
| | - Fernando Martínez-Freiría
- CIBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, InBIO Laboratório Associado, Campus de Vairão, Universidade do Porto, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal; (I.F.); (N.L.)
- BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairão, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
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Almeida TC, de Morais Ribeiro Silva L, de Oliveira AMB, Lopes FSR, Sant'Anna MB, Picolo G. Cytotoxic effect of crotoxin on cancer cells and its antitumoral effects correlated to tumor microenvironment: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 242:124892. [PMID: 37196721 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and despite the effort of standard treatments, the search for new tools against this disease is necessary. Importantly, it is known that the tumor microenvironment plays a crucial role in tumor initiation, progression, and response to therapies. Therefore, studies of potential drugs that act on these components are as critical as studies regarding antiproliferative substances. Through the years, studies of several natural products, including animal toxins, have been conducted to guide the development of medical compounds. In this review, we present the remarkable antitumor activities of crotoxin, a toxin from the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus, highlighting its effects on cancer cells and in the modulation of relevant elements in the tumor microenvironment as well as the clinical trials conducted with this compound. In summary, crotoxin acts through several mechanisms of action, such as activation of apoptosis, induction of cell cycle arrest, inhibition of metastasis, and decrease of tumor growth, in different tumor types. Crotoxin also modulates tumor-associated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and immune cells, which contribute to its antitumoral effects. In addition, preliminary clinical studies confirm the promising results of crotoxin and support its potential future use as an anticancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Gisele Picolo
- Laboratory of Pain and Signaling, Butantan Institute, 05503-900 São Paulo, Brazil.
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Gopal G, Muralidar S, Prakash D, Kamalakkannan A, Indhuprakash ST, Thirumalai D, Ambi SV. The concept of Big Four: Road map from snakebite epidemiology to antivenom efficacy. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 242:124771. [PMID: 37169043 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Snake envenomation is a life-threatening disease caused by the injection of venom toxins from the venomous snake bite. Snakebite is often defined as the occupational or domestic hazard mostly affecting the rural population. India experiences a high number of envenoming cases and fatality due to the nation's diversity in inhabiting venomous snakes. The Indian Big Four snakes namely Russell's viper (Daboia russelii), spectacled cobra (Naja naja), common krait (Bungarus caeruleus), and saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus) are responsible for majority of the snake envenoming cases and death. The demographic characteristics including occupation, stringent snake habitat management, poor healthcare facilities and ignorance of the rural victims are the primary influencers of high mortality. Biogeographic venom variation greatly influences the clinical pathologies of snake envenomation. The current antivenoms against the Big Four snakes are found to be less immunogenic against the venom toxins emphasizing the necessity of alternative approaches for antivenom generation. This review summarizes the burden of snake envenomation in India by the Big Four snakes including the geographic distribution of snake species and biogeographic venom variation. We have provided comprehensive information on snake venom proteomics that has aided the better understanding of venom induced pathological features, summarized the impact of current polyvalent antivenom therapy highlighting the need for potential antivenom treatment for the effective management of snakebites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayathri Gopal
- Biopharmaceutical Research Lab, Anusandhan Kendra-1, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India; School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Shibi Muralidar
- Biopharmaceutical Research Lab, Anusandhan Kendra-1, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India; School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Diwahar Prakash
- Biopharmaceutical Research Lab, Anusandhan Kendra-1, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India; School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abishek Kamalakkannan
- Biopharmaceutical Research Lab, Anusandhan Kendra-1, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India; School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Srichandrasekar Thuthikkadu Indhuprakash
- Biopharmaceutical Research Lab, Anusandhan Kendra-1, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India; School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Diraviyam Thirumalai
- Biopharmaceutical Research Lab, Anusandhan Kendra-1, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India; School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Senthil Visaga Ambi
- Biopharmaceutical Research Lab, Anusandhan Kendra-1, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India; School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed-to-be-University, Thanjavur 613401, Tamil Nadu, India.
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64
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Almeida JR, Gomes A, Mendes B, Aguiar L, Ferreira M, Brioschi MBC, Duarte D, Nogueira F, Cortes S, Salazar-Valenzuela D, Miguel DC, Teixeira C, Gameiro P, Gomes P. Unlocking the potential of snake venom-based molecules against the malaria, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis triad. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 242:124745. [PMID: 37150376 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Malaria, leishmaniasis and Chagas disease are vector-borne protozoal infections with a disproportionately high impact on the most fragile societies in the world, and despite malaria-focused research gained momentum in the past two decades, both trypanosomiases and leishmaniases remain neglected tropical diseases. Affordable effective drugs remain the mainstay of tackling this burden, but toxicicty, inneficiency against later stage disease, and drug resistance issues are serious shortcomings. One strategy to overcome these hurdles is to get new therapeutics or inspiration in nature. Indeed, snake venoms have been recognized as valuable sources of biomacromolecules, like peptides and proteins, with antiprotozoal activity. This review highlights major snake venom components active against at least one of the three aforementioned diseases, which include phospholipases A2, metalloproteases, L-amino acid oxidases, lectins, and oligopeptides. The relevance of this repertoire of biomacromolecules and the bottlenecks in their clinical translation are discussed considering approaches that should increase the success rate in this arduous task. Overall, this review underlines how venom-derived biomacromolecules could lead to pioneering antiprotozoal treatments and how the drug landscape for neglected diseases may be revolutionized by a closer look at venoms. Further investigations on poorly studied venoms is needed and could add new therapeutics to the pipeline.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Rafael Almeida
- Biomolecules Discovery Group, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena 150150, Ecuador.
| | - Ana Gomes
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 687, P-4169-007 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Bruno Mendes
- Biomolecules Discovery Group, Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Tena 150150, Ecuador
| | - Luísa Aguiar
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 687, P-4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mariana Ferreira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 687, P-4169-007 Porto, Portugal.
| | | | - Denise Duarte
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo 13083-862, Brazil.
| | - Fátima Nogueira
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, GHTM, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, IHMT, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, UNL, Rua Junqueira 100, P-1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Sofia Cortes
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, GHTM, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, IHMT, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, UNL, Rua Junqueira 100, P-1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - David Salazar-Valenzuela
- Centro de Investigación de la Biodiversidad y Cambio Climático (BioCamb) e Ingeniería en Biodiversidad y Recursos Genéticos, Facultad de Ciencias de Medio Ambiente, Universidad Indoamérica, Quito 170103, Ecuador.
| | - Danilo C Miguel
- Centro de Investigación de la Biodiversidad y Cambio Climático (BioCamb) e Ingeniería en Biodiversidad y Recursos Genéticos, Facultad de Ciencias de Medio Ambiente, Universidad Indoamérica, Quito 170103, Ecuador.
| | - Cátia Teixeira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 687, P-4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Gameiro
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 687, P-4169-007 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Paula Gomes
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre 687, P-4169-007 Porto, Portugal.
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Castro-Amorim J, Oliveira A, Mukherjee AK, Ramos MJ, Fernandes PA. Unraveling the Reaction Mechanism of Russell's Viper Venom Factor X Activator: A Paradigm for the Reactivity of Zinc Metalloproteinases? J Chem Inf Model 2023. [PMID: 37092784 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.2c01156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs) are important drug targets against snakebite envenoming, the neglected tropical disease with the highest mortality worldwide. Here, we focus on Russell's viper (Daboia russelii), one of the "big four" snakes of the Indian subcontinent that, together, are responsible for ca. 50,000 fatalities annually. The "Russell's viper venom factor X activator" (RVV-X), a highly toxic metalloproteinase, activates the blood coagulation factor X (FX), leading to the prey's abnormal blood clotting and death. Given its tremendous public health impact, the WHO recognized an urgent need to develop efficient, heat-stable, and affordable-for-all small-molecule inhibitors, for which a deep understanding of the mechanisms of action of snake's principal toxins is fundamental. In this study, we determine the catalytic mechanism of RVV-X by using a density functional theory/molecular mechanics (DFT:MM) methodology to calculate its free energy profile. The results showed that the catalytic process takes place via two steps. The first step involves a nucleophilic attack by an in situ generated hydroxide ion on the substrate carbonyl, yielding an activation barrier of 17.7 kcal·mol-1, while the second step corresponds to protonation of the peptide nitrogen and peptide bond cleavage with an energy barrier of 23.1 kcal·mol-1. Our study shows a unique role played by Zn2+ in catalysis by lowering the pKa of the Zn2+-bound water molecule, enough to permit the swift formation of the hydroxide nucleophile through barrierless deprotonation by the formally much less basic Glu140. Without the Zn2+ cofactor, this step would be rate-limiting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Castro-Amorim
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, Porto 4169-007, Portugal
| | - Ana Oliveira
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, Porto 4169-007, Portugal
| | - Ashis K Mukherjee
- Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Vigyan Path Garchuk, Paschim Boragaon, Guwahati 781035, Assam, India
| | - Maria J Ramos
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, Porto 4169-007, Portugal
| | - Pedro A Fernandes
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, Porto 4169-007, Portugal
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66
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Castro-Amorim J, Novo de Oliveira A, Da Silva SL, Soares AM, Mukherjee AK, Ramos MJ, Fernandes PA. Catalytically Active Snake Venom PLA 2 Enzymes: An Overview of Its Elusive Mechanisms of Reaction. J Med Chem 2023; 66:5364-5376. [PMID: 37018514 PMCID: PMC10150362 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c00097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2023]
Abstract
Snake venom-secreted phospholipase A2 (svPLA2) enzymes, both catalytically active and inactive, are a central component in envenoming. These are responsible for disrupting the cell membrane's integrity, inducing a wide range of pharmacological effects, such as the necrosis of the bitten limb, cardiorespiratory arrest, edema, and anticoagulation. Although extensively characterized, the reaction mechanisms of enzymatic svPLA2 are still to be thoroughly understood. This review presents and analyses the most plausible reaction mechanisms for svPLA2, such as the "single-water mechanism" or the "assisted-water mechanism" initially proposed for the homologous human PLA2. All of the mechanistic possibilities are characterized by a highly conserved Asp/His/water triad and a Ca2+ cofactor. The extraordinary increase in activity induced by binding to a lipid-water interface, known as "interfacial activation," critical for the PLA2s activity, is also discussed. Finally, a potential catalytic mechanism for the postulated noncatalytic PLA2-like proteins is anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Castro-Amorim
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Novo de Oliveira
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Saulo Luís Da Silva
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Andreimar M Soares
- Laboratory of Biotechnology of Proteins and Bioactive Compounds (LABIOPROT), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, National Institute of Epidemiology in the Western Amazon (INCT-EpiAmO), Porto Velho, Rondônia 76812-245, Brazil
- Sao Lucas Universitary Center (UniSL), Porto Velho, Rondônia 76805-846, Brazil
| | - Ashis K Mukherjee
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784028, Assam, India
- Division of Life Sciences, Institute of Advanced Studies in Science and Technology, Vigyan Path, Garchuk, Paschim Boragaon, Guwahati 781035, Assam, India
| | - Maria João Ramos
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro A Fernandes
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, s/n, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
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67
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Križaj I. Toxinology and Pharmacology of Snake Venoms. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15030212. [PMID: 36977102 PMCID: PMC10051782 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15030212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Evolution endowed snakes with the ultimate weapon: venom [...]
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Križaj
- Department of Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Jožef Stefan Institute, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Lee CH, Lee YY, Chang YC, Pon WL, Lee SP, Wali N, Nakazawa T, Honda Y, Shie JJ, Hsueh YP. A carnivorous mushroom paralyzes and kills nematodes via a volatile ketone. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eade4809. [PMID: 36652525 PMCID: PMC9848476 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade4809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The carnivorous mushroom Pleurotus ostreatus uses an unknown toxin to rapidly paralyze and kill nematode prey upon contact. We report that small lollipop-shaped structures (toxocysts) on fungal hyphae are nematicidal and that a volatile ketone, 3-octanone, is detected in these fragile toxocysts. Treatment of Caenorhabditis elegans with 3-octanone recapitulates the rapid paralysis, calcium influx, and neuronal cell death arising from fungal contact. Moreover, 3-octanone disrupts cell membrane integrity, resulting in extracellular calcium influx into cytosol and mitochondria, propagating cell death throughout the entire organism. Last, we demonstrate that structurally related compounds are also biotoxic to C. elegans, with the length of the ketone carbon chain being crucial. Our work reveals that the oyster mushroom has evolved a specialized structure containing a volatile ketone to disrupt the cell membrane integrity of its prey, leading to rapid cell and organismal death in nematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Han Lee
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Yun Lee
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
- Molecular Cell Biology, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica and Graduate Institute of Life Science, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chu Chang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Li Pon
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Sue-Ping Lee
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Niaz Wali
- Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
- Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
- Chemical Biology and Molecular Biophysics, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Takehito Nakazawa
- Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan
| | - Yoichi Honda
- Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan
| | - Jiun-Jie Shie
- Institute of Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
- Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
- Chemical Biology and Molecular Biophysics, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Ping Hsueh
- Institute of Molecular Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
- Molecular Cell Biology, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica and Graduate Institute of Life Science, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10051, Taiwan
- Department of Biochemical Science and Technology, National Chiayi University, Chiayi City 60004, Taiwan
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69
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Shimwell C, Atkinson L, Graham MR, Murdoch B. A first molecular characterization of the scorpion telson microbiota of Hadrurus arizonensis and Smeringurus mesaensis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0277303. [PMID: 36649362 PMCID: PMC9844838 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Scorpions represent an ancient lineage of arachnids that have radiated across the globe and are incredibly resilient-since some thrive in harsh environments and can exist on minimal and intermittent feedings. Given the emerging importance of microbiomes to an organism's health, it is intriguing to suggest that the long-term success of the scorpion bauplan may be linked to the microbiome. Little is known about scorpion microbiomes, and what is known, concentrates on the gut. The microbiome is not limited to the gut, rather it can be found within tissues, fluids and on external surfaces. We tested whether the scorpion telson, the venom-producing organ, of two species, Smeringurus mesaensis and Hadrurus arizonensis, contain bacteria. We isolated telson DNA from each species, amplified bacterial 16S rRNA genes, and identified the collection of bacteria present within each scorpion species. Our results show for the first time that telsons of non-buthid scorpion species do indeed contain bacteria. Interestingly, each scorpion species has a phylogenetically unique telson microbiome including Mollicutes symbionts. This study may change how we view scorpion biology and their venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Shimwell
- Department of Biology, Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic, CT, United States of America
| | - Lauren Atkinson
- Department of Biology, Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic, CT, United States of America
| | - Matthew R. Graham
- Department of Biology, Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic, CT, United States of America
| | - Barbara Murdoch
- Department of Biology, Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic, CT, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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70
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A current perspective on snake venom composition and constituent protein families. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:133-153. [PMID: 36437303 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03420-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Snake venoms are heterogeneous mixtures of proteins and peptides used for prey subjugation. With modern proteomics there has been a rapid expansion in our knowledge of snake venom composition, resulting in the venom proteomes of 30% of vipers and 17% of elapids being characterised. From the reasonably complete proteomic coverage of front-fanged snake venom composition (179 species-68 species of elapids and 111 species of vipers), the venoms of vipers and elapids contained 42 different protein families, although 18 were only reported in < 5% of snake species. Based on the mean abundance and occurrence of the 42 protein families, they can be classified into 4 dominant, 6 secondary, 14 minor, and 18 rare protein families. The dominant, secondary and minor categories account for 96% on average of a snake's venom composition. The four dominant protein families are: phospholipase A2 (PLA2), snake venom metalloprotease (SVMP), three-finger toxins (3FTx), and snake venom serine protease (SVSP). The six secondary protein families are: L-amino acid oxidase (LAAO), cysteine-rich secretory protein (CRiSP), C-type lectins (CTL), disintegrins (DIS), kunitz peptides (KUN), and natriuretic peptides (NP). Venom variation occurs at all taxonomic levels, including within populations. The reasons for venom variation are complex, as variation is not always associated with geographical variation in diet. The four dominant protein families appear to be the most important toxin families in human envenomation, being responsible for coagulopathy, neurotoxicity, myotoxicity and cytotoxicity. Proteomic techniques can be used to investigate the toxicological profile of a snake venom and hence identify key protein families for antivenom immunorecognition.
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González García MC, Radix C, Villard C, Breuzard G, Mansuelle P, Barbier P, Tsvetkov PO, De Pomyers H, Gigmes D, Devred F, Kovacic H, Mabrouk K, Luis J. Myotoxin-3 from the Pacific Rattlesnake Crotalus oreganus oreganus Venom Is a New Microtubule-Targeting Agent. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27238241. [PMID: 36500334 PMCID: PMC9739105 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Microtubule targeting agents (MTA) are anti-cancer molecules that bind tubulin and interfere with the microtubule functions, eventually leading to cell death. In the present study, we used an in vitro microtubule polymerization assay to screen several venom families for the presence of anti-microtubule activity. We isolated myotoxin-3, a peptide of the crotamine family, and three isoforms from the venom of the Northern Pacific rattlesnake Crotalus oreganus oreganus, which was able to increase tubulin polymerization. Myotoxin-3 turned out to be a cell-penetrating peptide that slightly diminished the viability of U87 glioblastoma and MCF7 breast carcinoma cells. Myotoxin 3 also induced remodeling of the U87 microtubule network and decreased MCF-7 microtubule dynamic instability. These effects are likely due to direct interaction with tubulin. Indeed, we showed that myotoxin-3 binds to tubulin heterodimer with a Kd of 5.3 µM and stoichiometry of two molecules of peptide per tubulin dimer. Our results demonstrate that exogenous peptides are good candidates for developing new MTA and highlight the richness of venoms as a source of pharmacologically active molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Cecilia González García
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Caroline Radix
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Claude Villard
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Gilles Breuzard
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Pascal Mansuelle
- Institut de Microbiologie de la Méditerranée (Marseille Protéomique), IMM (MaP), CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 31 Chemin Joseph Aiguier, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Pascale Barbier
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Philipp O. Tsvetkov
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Harold De Pomyers
- Laboratoire LATOXAN SAS, 845 Avenue Pierre Brossolette, 26800 Portes-lès-Valence, France
| | - Didier Gigmes
- Institut de Chimie Radicalaire, ICR, Faculté des Sciences de Saint Jérôme, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13397 Marseille, France
| | - François Devred
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Hervé Kovacic
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Kamel Mabrouk
- Institut de Chimie Radicalaire, ICR, Faculté des Sciences de Saint Jérôme, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13397 Marseille, France
| | - José Luis
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-4-91-32-47-34
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72
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Offor BC, Muller B, Piater LA. A Review of the Proteomic Profiling of African Viperidae and Elapidae Snake Venoms and Their Antivenom Neutralisation. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14110723. [PMID: 36355973 PMCID: PMC9694588 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14110723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) that results from the injection of snake venom of a venomous snake into animals and humans. In Africa (mainly in sub-Saharan Africa), over 100,000 envenomings and over 10,000 deaths per annum from snakebite have been reported. Difficulties in snakebite prevention and antivenom treatment are believed to result from a lack of epidemiological data and underestimated figures on snakebite envenoming-related morbidity and mortality. There are species- and genus-specific variations associated with snake venoms in Africa and across the globe. These variations contribute massively to diverse differences in venom toxicity and pathogenicity that can undermine the efficacy of adopted antivenom therapies used in the treatment of snakebite envenoming. There is a need to profile all snake venom proteins of medically important venomous snakes endemic to Africa. This is anticipated to help in the development of safer and more effective antivenoms for the treatment of snakebite envenoming within the continent. In this review, the proteomes of 34 snake venoms from the most medically important snakes in Africa, namely the Viperidae and Elipdae, were extracted from the literature. The toxin families were grouped into dominant, secondary, minor, and others based on the abundance of the protein families in the venom proteomes. The Viperidae venom proteome was dominated by snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs-41%), snake venom serine proteases (SVSPs-16%), and phospholipase A2 (PLA2-17%) protein families, while three-finger toxins (3FTxs-66%) and PLA2s (16%) dominated those of the Elapidae. We further review the neutralisation of these snake venoms by selected antivenoms widely used within the African continent. The profiling of African snake venom proteomes will aid in the development of effective antivenom against snakebite envenoming and, additionally, could possibly reveal therapeutic applications of snake venom proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedict C. Offor
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa
| | - Beric Muller
- South Africa Venom Suppliers CC, Louis Trichardt 0920, South Africa
| | - Lizelle A. Piater
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-11-559-2403
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Ang WF, Koh CY, Kini RM. From Snake Venoms to Therapeutics: A Focus on Natriuretic Peptides. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15091153. [PMID: 36145374 PMCID: PMC9502559 DOI: 10.3390/ph15091153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Snake venom is a cocktail of multifunctional biomolecules that has evolved with the purpose of capturing prey and for defense. These biomolecules are classified into different classes based on their functions. They include three-finger toxins, natriuretic peptides, phospholipases and metalloproteinases. The focus for this review is on the natriuretic peptide (NP), which is an active component that can be isolated from the venoms of vipers and mambas. In these venoms, NPs contribute to the lowering of blood pressure, causing a rapid loss of consciousness in the prey such that its mobility is reduced, paralyzing the prey, and often death follows. Over the past 30 years since the discovery of the first NP in the venom of the green mamba, venom NPs have shown potential in the development of drug therapy for heart failure. Venom NPs have long half-lives, different pharmacological profiles, and may also possess different functions in comparison to the mammalian NPs. Understanding their mechanisms of action provides the strategies needed to develop new NPs for treatment of heart failure. This review summarizes the venom NPs that have been identified over the years and how they can be useful in drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Fong Ang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117558, Singapore
- NUS Graduate School of Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
| | - Cho Yeow Koh
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117559, Singapore
- Correspondence: (C.Y.K.); (R.M.K.); Tel.: +65-6601-1387 (C.Y.K.); +65-6516-5235 (R.M.K.)
| | - R. Manjunatha Kini
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117558, Singapore
- NUS Graduate School of Integrative Sciences and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077, Singapore
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298-0614, USA
- Correspondence: (C.Y.K.); (R.M.K.); Tel.: +65-6601-1387 (C.Y.K.); +65-6516-5235 (R.M.K.)
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