1
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Bebal FF, Bagwe AD, D’Souza RC, Sharma BB. Identifying toxic effects and metabolic perturbations of Duttaphrynus melanostictus skin extracts in human erythrocytes. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2024; 13:tfae086. [PMID: 38835821 PMCID: PMC11145735 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfae086] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Skin secretions of toads are widely used in medicine all over the world for their antiviral, anti-infective, and cardiotonic properties. Because these secretions are mostly employed to combat blood parasite infection, it is important to understand their potential toxic effects on human erythrocytes. Therefore, the objective of the current investigation was to elucidate the effects of Duttaphrynus melanostictus (Schneider) skin extracts on the physiology of human erythrocytes. Methods Toads captured from their natural habitat were separated into three groups according to their body size. Hydroalcoholic extracts of toad skin were prepared by reflux heating. These extracts were then evaluated for their hemolytic and hemoglobin denaturation potential. The effects of the extracts on cytosolic and membrane-bound enzymes of human erythrocytes were assessed. Results The hemolysis and hemoglobin denaturation caused by these extracts correlated positively with the respective toad sizes. Extracts from medium and large toads led to increased osmotic fragility even at near iso-osmotic concentrations. Biochemical analysis of hemolysate showed that the treatment induced a shift of metabolic flux toward the glutathione pathway. Analysis of membrane-bound enzymes revealed a significant decrease in the activity of Na+/K+ ATPase and acetylcholinesterase. SDS-PAGE analysis of the erythrocyte membrane did not show the band of tropomodulin for the cells treated with 1000 𝜇g/ml extract from large toads. Conclusions In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that the toxicity of toad skin secretions aggravates with the size of the animal and interferes with the physiology of human erythrocytes, leading to their membrane disruption and rapid lysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima F Bebal
- Department of Zoology, KET’s V. G. Vaze College of Arts, Science & Commerce (Autonomous), Mithagar Road, Mumbai - 400 081, Maharashtra, India
| | - Akshay D Bagwe
- Department of Zoology, KET’s V. G. Vaze College of Arts, Science & Commerce (Autonomous), Mithagar Road, Mumbai - 400 081, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Zoology, Sophia College for Women (Autonomous), Bhulabhai Desai Road, Mumbai - 400 026, Maharashtra, India
| | - Roshan C D’Souza
- Department of Zoology, Sophia College for Women (Autonomous), Bhulabhai Desai Road, Mumbai - 400 026, Maharashtra, India
| | - Bharatbhushan B Sharma
- Department of Zoology, KET’s V. G. Vaze College of Arts, Science & Commerce (Autonomous), Mithagar Road, Mumbai - 400 081, Maharashtra, India
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2
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Rodriguez C, Ibáñez R, Olmedo DA, Ng M, Spadafora C, Durant-Archibold AA, Gutiérrez M. Anti-Trypanosomal Bufadienolides from the Oocytes of the Toad Rhinella alata (Anura, Bufonidae). Molecules 2023; 29:196. [PMID: 38202779 PMCID: PMC10779871 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29010196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Amphibians are widely known as a prolific source of bioactive metabolites. In this work, we isolated and characterized compounds with antiparasitic activity from the oocytes of the toad Rhinella alata collected in Panama. Bio-guided isolation and structural elucidation were carried out using chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques, respectively. The organic extract was subjected to solid phase extraction followed by HPLC purification of the fraction with in vitro activity against Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes. Seven steroids (1-7) of the bufadienolide family were isolated, and their structures were determined using NMR and MS analyses; of these 19-formyl-dyscinobufotalin, (3) is reported as a new natural product. Compounds 1 and 3-7 resulted in a good anti-trypanosomal activity profile. Among these, 16β-hydroxyl-hellebrigenin (1) and bufalin (7) showed significant selectivity values of >5 and 2.69, respectively, while the positive control benznidazole showed a selectivity of 18.81. Furthermore, molecular docking analysis showed compounds 1, 3 and 7 interact through H-bonds with the amino acid residues GLN-19, ASP-158, HIS-159 and TRP-177 from cruzipain at the catalytic site. Given the lack of therapeutic options to treat American trypanosomiasis, this work can serve as the basis for further studies that aim for the development of bufadienolides or their derivatives as drugs against Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candelario Rodriguez
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panamá 0843-01103, Panama; (C.R.); (A.A.D.-A.)
- Department of Biotechnology, Acharya Nagarjuna University, Nagarjuna Nagar, Guntur 522510, India
| | - Roberto Ibáñez
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa, Ancon 0843-03092, Panama;
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y Tecnología, Universidad de Panamá, Panamá 0824-03366, Panama
| | - Dionisio A. Olmedo
- Centro de Investigaciones Farmacognósticas de la Flora Panameña (CIFLORPAN), Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Panamá, Panamá 0824-03366, Panama;
| | - Michelle Ng
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, INDICASAT AIP, Panamá 0843-01103, Panama; (M.N.); (C.S.)
| | - Carmenza Spadafora
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, INDICASAT AIP, Panamá 0843-01103, Panama; (M.N.); (C.S.)
| | - Armando A. Durant-Archibold
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panamá 0843-01103, Panama; (C.R.); (A.A.D.-A.)
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y Tecnología, Universidad de Panamá, Panamá 0824-03366, Panama
| | - Marcelino Gutiérrez
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panamá 0843-01103, Panama; (C.R.); (A.A.D.-A.)
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3
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Ye Q, Zhong Z, Chao S, Liu L, Chen M, Feng X, Wu H. Antifungal Effect of Bacillus velezensis ZN-S10 against Plant Pathogen Colletotrichum changpingense and Its Inhibition Mechanism. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16694. [PMID: 38069016 PMCID: PMC10705930 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In order to optimize crop production and mitigate the adverse impacts associated with the utilization of chemical agents, it is necessary to explore new biocontrol agents. Bacillus velezensis has been widely studied as a biocontrol agent because of its efficient and ecofriendly plant disease control mechanisms. This study shows that the strain ZN-S10 effectively reduces the area of leaf spots caused by the pathogen Colletotrichum changpingense ZAFU0163-1, which affects conidia production and germination, inhibits mycelium growth, and induces mycelium deformation. In antifungal experiments with crude extracts, we observed a delay in the cell cycle of conidia, which may be responsible for the inhibition of conidial germination. Among the bioactive metabolites detected through integrated LC-MS- and GC-MS-based untargeted metabolomics, 7-O-Succinyl macrolactin A, telocinobufagin, and surfactin A may be the main antifungal metabolites of strain ZN-S10. The presence of 7-O-Succinyl macrolactin A could explain the cell damage in germ tubes. This is the first report of telocinobufagin detected in B. velezensis. These results are significant for understanding the inhibitory mechanisms employed by B. velezensis and should serve as a reference in the production of biocontrol agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingling Ye
- Jixian Honors College, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China;
| | - Zhupeiqi Zhong
- College of Advanced Agriculture Sciences, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China; (Z.Z.); (S.C.); (L.L.); (M.C.)
| | - Shufeng Chao
- College of Advanced Agriculture Sciences, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China; (Z.Z.); (S.C.); (L.L.); (M.C.)
| | - Lu Liu
- College of Advanced Agriculture Sciences, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China; (Z.Z.); (S.C.); (L.L.); (M.C.)
| | - Mengli Chen
- College of Advanced Agriculture Sciences, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China; (Z.Z.); (S.C.); (L.L.); (M.C.)
| | - Xiaoxiao Feng
- Agricultural Experiment Station, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Huiming Wu
- College of Advanced Agriculture Sciences, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China; (Z.Z.); (S.C.); (L.L.); (M.C.)
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4
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Woodhams DC, McCartney J, Walke JB, Whetstone R. The adaptive microbiome hypothesis and immune interactions in amphibian mucus. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 145:104690. [PMID: 37001710 PMCID: PMC10249470 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2023.104690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The microbiome is known to provide benefits to hosts, including extension of immune function. Amphibians are a powerful immunological model for examining mucosal defenses because of an accessible epithelial mucosome throughout their developmental trajectory, their responsiveness to experimental treatments, and direct interactions with emerging infectious pathogens. We review amphibian skin mucus components and describe the adaptive microbiome as a novel process of disease resilience where competitive microbial interactions couple with host immune responses to select for functions beneficial to the host. We demonstrate microbiome diversity, specificity of function, and mechanisms for memory characteristic of an adaptive immune response. At a time when industrialization has been linked to losses in microbiota important for host health, applications of microbial therapies such as probiotics may contribute to immunotherapeutics and to conservation efforts for species currently threatened by emerging diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas C Woodhams
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, 02125, USA.
| | - Julia McCartney
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, 02125, USA
| | - Jenifer B Walke
- Department of Biology, Eastern Washington University, Cheney, WA, 99004-2440, USA
| | - Ross Whetstone
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, 02125, USA
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5
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Üveges B, Kalina C, Szabó K, Móricz ÁM, Holly D, Gabor CR, Hettyey A, Bókony V. Does the Glucocorticoid Stress Response Make Toads More Toxic? An Experimental Study on the Regulation of Bufadienolide Toxin Synthesis. Integr Org Biol 2023; 5:obad021. [PMID: 37435008 PMCID: PMC10331804 DOI: 10.1093/iob/obad021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemical defense is a crucial component of fitness in many organisms, yet the physiological regulation of defensive toxin synthesis is poorly understood, especially in vertebrates. Bufadienolides, the main defensive compounds of toads, are toxic to many predators and other natural enemies, and their synthesis can be upregulated by stressors, including predation risk, high conspecific density, and pollutants. Thus, higher toxin content may be the consequence of a general endocrine stress response in toads. Therefore, we hypothesized that bufadienolide synthesis may be stimulated by elevated levels of corticosterone (CORT), the main glucocorticoid hormone of amphibians, or by upstream regulators that stimulate CORT production. To test these alternatives, we treated common toad tadpoles with exogenous CORT (exoCORT) or metyrapone (MTP, a CORT-synthesis inhibitor that stimulates upstream regulators of CORT by negative feedback) in the presence or absence of predation cues for 2 or 6 days, and subsequently measured their CORT release rates and bufadienolide content. We found that CORT release rates were elevated by exoCORT, and to a lesser extent also by MTP, regardless of treatment length. Bufadienolide content was significantly decreased by treatment with exoCORT for 6 days but was unaffected by exposure to exoCORT for 2 days or to MTP for either 6 or 2 days. The presence or absence of predation cues affected neither CORT release rate nor bufadienolide content. Our results suggest that changes in bufadienolide synthesis in response to environmental challenges are not driven by CORT but may rather be regulated by upstream hormones of the stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Üveges
- Department of Evolutionary Ecology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Herman Ottó út 15, 1022 Budapest, Hungary
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution at Bangor, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Environment Centre Wales, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - C Kalina
- Department of Evolutionary Ecology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Herman Ottó út 15, 1022 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Ecology, Institute of Biology, University of Veterinary Medicine, István u. 2, 1078 Budapest, Hungary
| | - K Szabó
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department for Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Móricz Zsigmond út 22, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Á M Móricz
- Department of Pathophysiology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Herman Ottó út 15, 1022 Budapest, Hungary
| | - D Holly
- Department of Evolutionary Ecology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Herman Ottó út 15, 1022 Budapest, Hungary
| | - C R Gabor
- Department of Evolutionary Ecology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Herman Ottó út 15, 1022 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Biology, College of Science and Engineering, Texas State University, 601 University Dr., San Marcos, TX 78666, USA
| | - A Hettyey
- Department of Evolutionary Ecology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Herman Ottó út 15, 1022 Budapest, Hungary
| | - V Bókony
- Department of Evolutionary Ecology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Herman Ottó út 15, 1022 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Ecology, Institute of Biology, University of Veterinary Medicine, István u. 2, 1078 Budapest, Hungary
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6
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Ibarra-Vega R, Galván-Hernández AR, Salazar-Monge H, Zataraín-Palacios R, García-Villalvazo PE, Zavalza-Galvez DI, Valdez-Velazquez LL, Jiménez-Vargas JM. Antimicrobial Compounds from Skin Secretions of Species That Belong to the Bufonidae Family. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:145. [PMID: 36828459 PMCID: PMC9968139 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15020145] [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: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin secretions of toads are a complex mixture of molecules. The substances secreted comprise more than 80 different compounds that show diverse pharmacological activities. The compounds secreted through skin pores and parotid glands are of particular interest because they help toads to endure in habitats full of pathogenic microbes, i.e., bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa, due to their content of components such as bufadienolides, alkaloids, and antimicrobial peptides. We carried out an extensive literature review of relevant articles published until November 2022 in ACS Publications, Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. It was centered on research addressing the biological characterization of the compounds identified in the species of genera Atelopus, Bufo, Duttaphrynus, Melanophryniscus, Peltopryne, Phrynoidis, Rhaebo, and Rhinella, with antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic activities; as well as studies performed with analogous compounds and skin secretions of toads that also showed these activities. This review shows that the compounds in the secretions of toads could be candidates for new drugs to treat infectious diseases or be used to develop new molecules with better properties from existing ones. Some compounds in this review showed activity against microorganisms of medical interest such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Coronavirus varieties, HIV, Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania chagasi, Plasmodium falciparum, and against different kinds of fungi that affect plants of economic interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Ibarra-Vega
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad de Colima, Coquimatlán 28040, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Juana María Jiménez-Vargas
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad de Colima, Coquimatlán 28040, Mexico
- Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT), Mexico City 03940, Mexico
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7
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Loudon AH, Terrell KA, Davis RW, Umile TP, Lipps GJ, Greathouse J, Chapman E, Roblee K, Kleopfer JD, Bales EK, Hyman OJ, Harris RN, Minbiole KPC. Metabolite compositions on skins of eastern hellbenders Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis differ with location and captivity. DISEASES OF AQUATIC ORGANISMS 2023; 153:9-16. [PMID: 36727687 DOI: 10.3354/dao03715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Eastern hellbenders Cryptobranchus alleganiensis alleganiensis, large aquatic salamanders, are declining over most of their range. The amphibian-killing fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) has contributed to global amphibian declines and has been detected on eastern hellbenders, but infection intensities were lower than those of species that are more susceptible to Bd. The factors limiting Bd on hellbenders may include antifungal metabolites produced by their skin microbiota. We used a metabolite fingerprinting technique to noninvasively identify the presence, but not identity, of metabolites associated with eastern hellbenders. We surveyed the skin of wild eastern hellbenders to test whether the composition and richness (i.e. number of metabolites) of their metabolites are explained by Bd status or location. Furthermore, we surveyed for metabolites on captive eastern hellbenders to test whether metabolite compositions were different between captive and wild eastern hellbenders. Bd detection was not associated with either metabolite richness or composition. Both metabolite composition and richness differed significantly on hellbenders from different locations (i.e. states). For metabolite composition, there was a statistical interaction between location and Bd status. Metabolite richness was greater on captive eastern hellbenders compared to wild hellbenders, and metabolite compositions differed between wild and captive eastern hellbenders. The methods we employed to detect metabolite profiles effectively grouped individuals by location even though metabolite composition and richness have high levels of intraspecific variation. Understanding the drivers and functional consequences of assemblages of skin metabolites on amphibian health will be an important step toward understanding the mechanisms that result in disease vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew H Loudon
- Biology Department, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, British Columbia V9R 5S5, Canada
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8
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Mohammadi S, Yang L, Bulbert M, Rowland HM. Defence mitigation by predators of chemically defended prey integrated over the predation sequence and across biological levels with a focus on cardiotonic steroids. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 9:220363. [PMID: 36133149 PMCID: PMC9449480 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.220363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Predator-prey interactions have long served as models for the investigation of adaptation and fitness in natural environments. Anti-predator defences such as mimicry and camouflage provide some of the best examples of evolution. Predators, in turn, have evolved sensory systems, cognitive abilities and physiological resistance to prey defences. In contrast to prey defences which have been reviewed extensively, the evolution of predator counter-strategies has received less attention. To gain a comprehensive view of how prey defences can influence the evolution of predator counter-strategies, it is essential to investigate how and when selection can operate. In this review we evaluate how predators overcome prey defences during (i) encounter, (ii) detection, (iii) identification, (iv) approach, (v) subjugation, and (vi) consumption. We focus on prey that are protected by cardiotonic steroids (CTS)-defensive compounds that are found in a wide range of taxa, and that have a specific physiological target. In this system, coevolution is well characterized between specialist insect herbivores and their host plants but evidence for coevolution between CTS-defended prey and their predators has received less attention. Using the predation sequence framework, we organize 574 studies reporting predators overcoming CTS defences, integrate these counter-strategies across biological levels of organization, and discuss the costs and benefits of attacking CTS-defended prey. We show that distinct lineages of predators have evolved dissecting behaviour, changes in perception of risk and of taste perception, and target-site insensitivity. We draw attention to biochemical, hormonal and microbiological strategies that have yet to be investigated as predator counter-adaptations to CTS defences. We show that the predation sequence framework will be useful for organizing future studies of chemically mediated systems and coevolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Mohammadi
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
- Institut für Zell- und Systembiologie der Tiere, Universität Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - Lu Yang
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Matthew Bulbert
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Oxford Brookes, Oxford, UK
- Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
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9
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Mohammadi S, Yang L, Bulbert M, Rowland HM. Defence mitigation by predators of chemically defended prey integrated over the predation sequence and across biological levels with a focus on cardiotonic steroids. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 9:220363. [PMID: 36133149 DOI: 10.6084/m9.figshare.c.6168216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Predator-prey interactions have long served as models for the investigation of adaptation and fitness in natural environments. Anti-predator defences such as mimicry and camouflage provide some of the best examples of evolution. Predators, in turn, have evolved sensory systems, cognitive abilities and physiological resistance to prey defences. In contrast to prey defences which have been reviewed extensively, the evolution of predator counter-strategies has received less attention. To gain a comprehensive view of how prey defences can influence the evolution of predator counter-strategies, it is essential to investigate how and when selection can operate. In this review we evaluate how predators overcome prey defences during (i) encounter, (ii) detection, (iii) identification, (iv) approach, (v) subjugation, and (vi) consumption. We focus on prey that are protected by cardiotonic steroids (CTS)-defensive compounds that are found in a wide range of taxa, and that have a specific physiological target. In this system, coevolution is well characterized between specialist insect herbivores and their host plants but evidence for coevolution between CTS-defended prey and their predators has received less attention. Using the predation sequence framework, we organize 574 studies reporting predators overcoming CTS defences, integrate these counter-strategies across biological levels of organization, and discuss the costs and benefits of attacking CTS-defended prey. We show that distinct lineages of predators have evolved dissecting behaviour, changes in perception of risk and of taste perception, and target-site insensitivity. We draw attention to biochemical, hormonal and microbiological strategies that have yet to be investigated as predator counter-adaptations to CTS defences. We show that the predation sequence framework will be useful for organizing future studies of chemically mediated systems and coevolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shabnam Mohammadi
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, USA
- Institut für Zell- und Systembiologie der Tiere, Universität Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
| | - Lu Yang
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Matthew Bulbert
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Biological and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Oxford Brookes, Oxford, UK
- Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, Jena, Germany
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10
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Kásler A, Ujszegi J, Holly D, Üveges B, Móricz ÁM, Herczeg D, Hettyey A. Metamorphic common toads keep chytrid infection under control, but at a cost. J Zool (1987) 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Kásler
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group Centre for Agricultural Research Plant Protection Institute Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology Institute of Biology ELTE Eötvös Loránd University Budapest Hungary
| | - J. Ujszegi
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group Centre for Agricultural Research Plant Protection Institute Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
- Department of Systematic Zoology and Ecology Institute of Biology ELTE Eötvös Loránd University Budapest Hungary
| | - D. Holly
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group Centre for Agricultural Research Plant Protection Institute Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology Institute of Biology ELTE Eötvös Loránd University Budapest Hungary
| | - B. Üveges
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group Centre for Agricultural Research Plant Protection Institute Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
- Molecular Ecology and Evolution at Bangor School of Natural Sciences Bangor University Bangor UK
| | - Á. M. Móricz
- Department of Pathophysiology Centre for Agricultural Research Plant Protection Institute Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
| | - D. Herczeg
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group Centre for Agricultural Research Plant Protection Institute Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
| | - A. Hettyey
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group Centre for Agricultural Research Plant Protection Institute Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
- Department of Systematic Zoology and Ecology Institute of Biology ELTE Eötvös Loránd University Budapest Hungary
- Department of Ecology University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest Hungary
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11
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Shen Y, Cai H, Ma S, Zhu W, Zhao H, Li J, Ye H, Yang L, Zhao C, Huang X, Xiao Z. Telocinobufagin Has Antitumor Effects in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer by Inhibiting STAT3 Signaling. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2022; 85:765-775. [PMID: 35200033 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.1c00761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Non-small-cell lung carcer (NSCLC), the main histological subtype of lung cancer, is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Telocinobufagin, an active compound of the Chinese traditional medicine ChanSu, has antitumor effects, but its mechanism of action remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated the effect of telocinobufagin on NSCLC growth and metastasis and its possible mechanism of action, in vitro and in vivo. Cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis were measured by methyl thiazol tetrazolium assay, colony formation, 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine incorporation, Transwell migration, wound healing, and flow cytometry analysis. A mouse xenograft model was used to evaluate tumor formation in vivo. Telocinobufagin was found to suppress proliferation and metastasis and induce apoptosis in human NSCLC cells. Moreover, telocinobufagin was able to significantly inhibit STAT3 phosphorylation at tyrosine 705 (Y705) and its downstream targets. Additionally, telocinobufagin also impaired the IL-6-induced nuclear translocation of STAT3. Consistent with the in vitro experiments, telocinobufagin reduced the A549 xenograft tumor burden and the levels of P-STAT3Y705, MCL1, BCL2, and cleaved PARP1 in vivo. These results support telocinobufagin as a promising STAT3 signaling inhibitor candidate for the treatment of NSCLC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yili Shen
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Haijian Cai
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Shenjie Ma
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Wenjing Zhu
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Haiyang Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Jifa Li
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China
| | - Hua Ye
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China
| | - Lehe Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Chengguang Zhao
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325035, China
| | - Xiaoying Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325000, China
| | - Zhongxiao Xiao
- Affiliated Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325600, China
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Pearson KC, Tarvin RD. A review of chemical defense in harlequin toads (Bufonidae: Atelopus). Toxicon X 2022; 13:100092. [PMID: 35146414 PMCID: PMC8801762 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2022.100092] [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: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Toads of the genus Atelopus are chemically defended by a unique combination of endogenously synthesized cardiotoxins (bufadienolides) and neurotoxins which may be sequestered (guanidinium alkaloids). Investigation into Atelopus small-molecule chemical defenses has been primarily concerned with identifying and characterizing various forms of these toxins while largely overlooking their ecological roles and evolutionary implications. In addition to describing the extent of knowledge about Atelopus toxin structures, pharmacology, and biological sources, we review the detection, identification, and quantification methods used in studies of Atelopus toxins to date and conclude that many known toxin profiles are unlikely to be comprehensive because of methodological and sampling limitations. Patterns in existing data suggest that both environmental (toxin availability) and genetic (capacity to synthesize or sequester toxins) factors influence toxin profiles. From an ecological and evolutionary perspective, we summarize the possible selective pressures acting on Atelopus toxicity and toxin profiles, including predation, intraspecies communication, disease, and reproductive status. Ultimately, we intend to provide a basis for future ecological, evolutionary, and biochemical research on Atelopus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kannon C. Pearson
- Museum of Vertebrate Zoology and Department of Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Rebecca D. Tarvin
- Museum of Vertebrate Zoology and Department of Integrative Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
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13
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NEERATI P, MUNIGADAPA S. Novel Indole Derivative as the First P-glycoprotein Inhibitor from the Skin of Indian Toad <i>(Bufo melanostictus)</i>. Turk J Pharm Sci 2022; 19:63-69. [DOI: 10.4274/tjps.galenos.2021.47417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Bufadienolides from the Skin Secretions of the Neotropical Toad Rhinella alata (Anura: Bufonidae): Antiprotozoal Activity against Trypanosoma cruzi. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26144217. [PMID: 34299492 PMCID: PMC8305532 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26144217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Toads in the family Bufonidae contain bufadienolides in their venom, which are characterized by their chemical diversity and high pharmacological potential. American trypanosomiasis is a neglected disease that affects an estimated 8 million people in tropical and subtropical countries. In this research, we investigated the chemical composition and antitrypanosomal activity of toad venom from Rhinella alata collected in Panama. Structural determination using mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy led to the identification of 10 bufadienolides. Compounds identified include the following: 16β-hydroxy-desacetyl-bufotalin-3-adipoyl-arginine ester (1), bufotalin (2), 16β-hydroxy-desacetyl-bufotalin-3-pimeloyl-arginine ester (3), bufotalin-3-pimeloyl-arginine ester (4), 16β-hydroxy-desacetyl-bufotalin-3-suberoyl-arginine ester (5), bufotalin-3-suberoyl-arginine ester (6), cinobufagin-3-adipoyl-arginine ester (7), cinobufagin-3-pimeloyl-arginine ester (8), cinobufagin-3-suberoyl-arginine ester (9), and cinobufagin (10). Among these, three new natural products, 1, 3, and 5, are described, and compounds 1-10 are reported for the first time in R. alata. The antitrypanosomal activity assessed in this study revealed that the presence of an arginyl-diacid attached to C-3, and a hydroxyl group at C-14 in the structure of bufadienolides that is important for their biological activity. Bufadienolides showed cytotoxic activity against epithelial kidney Vero cells; however, bufagins (2 and 10) displayed low mammalian cytotoxicity. Compounds 2 and 10 showed activity against the cancer cell lines MCF-7, NCI-H460, and SF-268.
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Üveges B, Basson AC, Móricz ÁM, Bókony V, Hettyey A. Chemical defence effective against multiple enemies: Does the response to conspecifics alleviate the response to predators? Funct Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.13870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bálint Üveges
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group Plant Protection Institute Centre for Agricultural Research Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
| | - Anna C. Basson
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group Plant Protection Institute Centre for Agricultural Research Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
- Department of Systematic Zoology and Ecology Eötvös Loránd University Budapest Hungary
| | - Ágnes M. Móricz
- Department of Pathophysiology Plant Protection Institute Centre for Agricultural Research Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
| | - Veronika Bókony
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group Plant Protection Institute Centre for Agricultural Research Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
- Department of Systematic Zoology and Ecology Eötvös Loránd University Budapest Hungary
| | - Attila Hettyey
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group Plant Protection Institute Centre for Agricultural Research Eötvös Loránd Research Network Budapest Hungary
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16
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Ujszegi J, Ludányi K, Móricz ÁM, Krüzselyi D, Drahos L, Drexler T, Németh MZ, Vörös J, Garner TWJ, Hettyey A. Exposure to Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis affects chemical defences in two anuran amphibians, Rana dalmatina and Bufo bufo. BMC Ecol Evol 2021; 21:135. [PMID: 34217227 PMCID: PMC8254444 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-021-01867-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) is the causative agent of chytridiomycosis, one of the major causes of worldwide amphibian biodiversity loss. Many amphibians exhibit skin-based chemical defences, which may play an important role against invading pathogens, but whether the synthesis of these chemical compounds is enhanced or suppressed in the presence of pathogens is largely unknown. Here we investigated direct and indirect effects of larval exposure to the globally distributed and highly virulent Bd-GPL strain on skin secreted chemical defences and life history traits during early ontogeny of agile frogs (Rana dalmatina) and common toads (Bufo bufo). Results Exposure to Bd during the larval stage did not result in enhanced synthesis of the antimicrobial peptide Brevinin-1 Da in R. dalmatina tadpoles or in increased production of bufadienolides in B. bufo tadpoles. However, exposure to Bd during the larval stage had a carry-over effect reaching beyond metamorphosis: both R. dalmatina and B. bufo froglets contained smaller quantities of defensive chemicals than their Bd-naïve conspecifics in the control treatment. Prevalence of Bd and infection intensities were very low in both larvae and metamorphs of R. dalmatina, while in B. bufo we observed high Bd prevalence and infection intensities, especially in metamorphs. At the same time, we did not find a significant effect of Bd-exposure on body mass or development rate in larvae or metamorphs in either species. Conclusions The lack of detrimental effect of Bd-exposure on life history traits, even parallel with high infection intensities in the case of B. bufo individuals, is surprising and suggests high tolerance of local populations of these two species against Bd. However, the lowered quantity of defensive chemicals may compromise antimicrobial and antipredatory defences of froglets, which may ultimately contribute to population declines also in the absence of conspicuous mass-mortality events.
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Affiliation(s)
- János Ujszegi
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Herman Ottó út 15, Budapest, 1022, Hungary.
| | - Krisztina Ludányi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Semmelweis University, Hőgyes Endre utca 7, Budapest, 1092, Hungary
| | - Ágnes M Móricz
- Department of Pathophysiology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Herman Ottó út 15, Budapest, 1022, Hungary
| | - Dániel Krüzselyi
- Department of Pathophysiology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Herman Ottó út 15, Budapest, 1022, Hungary
| | - László Drahos
- MS Proteomics Research Group, Institute of Organic Chemistry, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Magyar tudósok körútja 2, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Tamás Drexler
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Herman Ottó út 15, Budapest, 1022, Hungary.,Department of Ecology, Institute for Biology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Rottenbiller utca 50, Budapest, 1077, Hungary
| | - Márk Z Németh
- Department of Plant Pathology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Herman Ottó út 15, Budapest, 1022, Hungary
| | - Judit Vörös
- Department of Zoology, Hungarian Natural History Museum, Baross street 13, Budapest, 1088, Hungary
| | - Trenton W J Garner
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK.,Unit for Environmental Sciences and Management, North-West University, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Attila Hettyey
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Herman Ottó út 15, Budapest, 1022, Hungary.,Department of Ecology, Institute for Biology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Rottenbiller utca 50, Budapest, 1077, Hungary
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17
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Stefanowicz-Hajduk J, Hering A, Gucwa M, Hałasa R, Soluch A, Kowalczyk M, Stochmal A, Ochocka R. Biological activities of leaf extracts from selected Kalanchoe species and their relationship with bufadienolides content. PHARMACEUTICAL BIOLOGY 2020; 58:732-740. [PMID: 32715869 PMCID: PMC7470146 DOI: 10.1080/13880209.2020.1795208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Kalanchoe species (Crassulaceae) are widely used in traditional medicine as remedies in infectious diseases and cancer treatment. OBJECTIVE Cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities of Kalanchoe daigremontiana Raym.-Hamet & H. Perrier, K. pinnata (Lam.) Pers., and K. blossfeldiana Poelln. extracts were determined. The relationship between biological activities and the extracts bufadienolides content was also investigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fresh leaves of Kalanchoe species were macerated with 95% ethanol or water. The quantitative analysis of bufadienolides in the extracts was carried out with mass spectrometry. Cytotoxicity tests were performed on human cancer cell lines - HeLa, SKOV-3, MCF-7, and A375 by MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and Real-Time Cell Analysis system. The microbiological study was done using a few bacteria strains (β-hemolytic Streptococcus, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Enterococcus hirae, Escherichia coli) and Candida albicans. RESULTS The K. blossfeldiana ethanol extract and K. daigremontiana water extract exhibited the most potent cytotoxic activity (IC50 < 19 µg/mL for HeLa and SKOV-3 cells). The strongest antibacterial effects showed ethanol extract of K. blossfeldiana and K. pinnata (MIC values were 8.45, 8.45, 0.25 and <33.75 µg/mL for S. aureus, S. epidermidis, and E. hirae, respectively). The highest total amount of bufadienolides was in K. daigremontiana ethanol extract. In contrast, K. blossfeldiana ethanol extract did not show the presence of these compounds. CONCLUSIONS Kalanchoe blossfeldiana ethanol extract is a potential candidate for cancer and bacterial infection treatment. Additionally, the biological effects of Kalanchoe extracts are not dependent on the presence and amount of bufadienolides in the plant extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Hering
- Department of Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Magdalena Gucwa
- Department of Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Rafał Hałasa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Agata Soluch
- Department of Biochemistry and Crop Quality, Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation, State Research Institute, Puławy, Poland
| | - Mariusz Kowalczyk
- Department of Biochemistry and Crop Quality, Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation, State Research Institute, Puławy, Poland
| | - Anna Stochmal
- Department of Biochemistry and Crop Quality, Institute of Soil Science and Plant Cultivation, State Research Institute, Puławy, Poland
| | - Renata Ochocka
- Department of Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Medical University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
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Rodriguez C, Ibáñez R, Rollins-Smith LA, Gutiérrez M, Durant-Archibold AA. Antimicrobial Secretions of Toads (Anura, Bufonidae): Bioactive Extracts and Isolated Compounds against Human Pathogens. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9120843. [PMID: 33255881 PMCID: PMC7761505 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9120843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Species of the family Bufonidae, better known as true toads, are widespread and produce bioactive substances in the secretions obtained from specialized skin macroglands. Some true toads have been employed as a folk remedy to treat infectious diseases caused by microbial pathogens. Recent publications based on in silico analysis highlighted the Bufonidae as promising sources of antimicrobial peptides. A review of the literature reveals that Bufonidae skin secretion extracts show inhibitory activity in vitro against clinical isolates of bacteria, resistant and standard strains of bacterial, and fungal and parasitic human pathogens. Secondary metabolites belonging to the classes of alkaloids, bufadienolides, and peptides with antimicrobial activity have been isolated from species of the genera Bufo, Bufotes, Duttaphrynus, and Rhinella. Additionally, some antimicrobial extracts and purified compounds display low cytotoxicity against mammal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candelario Rodriguez
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Clayton, Panama City 0843-01103, Panama;
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y Tecnología, Universidad de Panamá, Apartado 0824-03366, Panama
- Department of Biotechnology, Acharya Nagarjuna University, Nagarjuna Nagar, Guntur 522510, India
- Scientific Station COIBA, (COIBA AIP), Ciudad del Saber, Apartado 0816-02852, Panama
| | - Roberto Ibáñez
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), Balboa 0843-03092, Panama;
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y Tecnología, Universidad de Panamá, Apartado 0824-03366, Panama
| | - Louise A. Rollins-Smith
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, and Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA;
| | - Marcelino Gutiérrez
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Clayton, Panama City 0843-01103, Panama;
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (A.A.D.-A.)
| | - Armando A. Durant-Archibold
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Clayton, Panama City 0843-01103, Panama;
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y Tecnología, Universidad de Panamá, Apartado 0824-03366, Panama
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (A.A.D.-A.)
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19
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Ujszegi J, Vajna B, Móricz ÁM, Krüzselyi D, Korponai K, Krett G, Hettyey A. Relationships Between Chemical Defenses of Common Toad (Bufo bufo) Tadpoles and Bacterial Community Structure of their Natural Aquatic Habitat. J Chem Ecol 2020; 46:534-543. [PMID: 32468489 PMCID: PMC7332479 DOI: 10.1007/s10886-020-01184-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Many organisms synthesize secondary metabolites against natural enemies. However, to which environmental factors the production of these metabolites is adjusted to is poorly investigated in animals, especially so in vertebrates. Bufadienolides are steroidal compounds that are present in a wide range of plants and animals and, if present in large quantities, can provide protection against natural enemies, such as pathogens. In a correlative study involving 16 natural populations we investigated how variation in bufadienolide content of larval common toads (Bufo bufo) is associated with the bacterial community structure of their aquatic environment. We also evaluated pond size, macrovegetation cover, and the abundance of predators, conspecifics and other larval amphibians. We measured toxin content of tadpoles using HPLC-MS and determined the number of bufadienolide compounds (NBC) and the total quantity of bufadienolides (TBQ). AICc-based model selection revealed strong relationships of NBC and TBQ with bacterial community structure of the aquatic habitat as well as with the presence of conspecific tadpoles. The observed relationships may have arisen due to adaptation to local bacterial communities, phenotypic plasticity, differential biotransformation of toxin compounds by different bacterial communities, or a combination of these processes. Bacterial groups that contribute to among-population variation in toxin content remain to be pinpointed, but our study suggesting that toxin production may be influenced by the bacterial community of the environment represents an important step towards understanding the ecological and evolutionary processes leading to microbiota-mediated variation in skin toxin profiles of aquatic vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- János Ujszegi
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Herman Ottó út 15, Budapest, 1022, Hungary.
| | - Balázs Vajna
- Department of Microbiology, Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Ágnes M Móricz
- Department of Pathophysiology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Herman Ottó út 15, Budapest, 1022, Hungary
| | - Dániel Krüzselyi
- Department of Pathophysiology, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Herman Ottó út 15, Budapest, 1022, Hungary
| | - Kristóf Korponai
- Department of Microbiology, Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
| | - Gergely Krett
- Department of Microbiology, Eötvös Loránd University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, Budapest, 1117, Hungary
- Danube Research Institute, Centre for Ecological Research, Karolina út 29, Budapest, 1113, Hungary
| | - Attila Hettyey
- Lendület Evolutionary Ecology Research Group, Plant Protection Institute, Centre for Agricultural Research, Herman Ottó út 15, Budapest, 1022, Hungary
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Sinhorin AP, Kerkhoff J, Dall'Oglio EL, de Jesus Rodrigues D, de Vasconcelos LG, Sinhorin VDG. Chemical profile of the parotoid gland secretion of the Amazonian toad (Rhinella margaritifera). Toxicon 2020; 182:30-33. [PMID: 32387184 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.04.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The secreted poisonin bufonids (Anura: Bufonidae) include proteins, biogenic amines, toxic bufadienolides and alkaloids. The chemical composition of the methanolic extract of parotoid gland secretions by the Amazonian toad Rhinella margaritifera was evaluated in a UFLC-DAD-micrOTOF system. Of the twenty three compounds found in the methanolic extract, eighteen were identified by the mass/charge ratio as: five arginine diacids, six bufagenins (telocinobufagin, marinobufagin, bufotalin, cinobufotalin, bufalin and cinobufagin), six bufotoxins, and an alkaloid (dehydrobufotenin).
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Affiliation(s)
- Adilson Paulo Sinhorin
- Laboratórios Integrados de Pesquisa em Química (LIPEQ), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Instituto de Ciências Naturais, Humanas e Sociais, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Campus de Sinop. Avenida Alexandre Ferronato, nº 1200, Bairro Setor Industrial, CEP 78557-267, Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil.
| | - Jacqueline Kerkhoff
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Rede de Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia da Amazônia Legal - PPG-BIONORTE, Coordenação Geral do Doutorado em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Cidade Universitária Paulo VI, Predio da Veterinária. Av. Lourenço Vieira da Silva, nº 1000, CEP: 65.055-310, São Luis, MA, Brazil; Laboratórios Integrados de Pesquisa em Química (LIPEQ), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Instituto de Ciências Naturais, Humanas e Sociais, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Campus de Sinop. Avenida Alexandre Ferronato, nº 1200, Bairro Setor Industrial, CEP 78557-267, Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil.
| | - Evadro Luiz Dall'Oglio
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Rede de Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia da Amazônia Legal - PPG-BIONORTE, Coordenação Geral do Doutorado em Biodiversidade e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Cidade Universitária Paulo VI, Predio da Veterinária. Av. Lourenço Vieira da Silva, nº 1000, CEP: 65.055-310, São Luis, MA, Brazil; Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciência Exatas e da Terra, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso - UFMT, Av. Fernando Corrêa da Costa, nº 2367, Bairro Boa Esperança, Cuiabá, MT, 78060-900, Brazil.
| | - Domingos de Jesus Rodrigues
- Laboratórios Integrados de Pesquisa em Química (LIPEQ), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Instituto de Ciências Naturais, Humanas e Sociais, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Campus de Sinop. Avenida Alexandre Ferronato, nº 1200, Bairro Setor Industrial, CEP 78557-267, Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil.
| | - Leonardo Gomes de Vasconcelos
- Departamento de Química, Instituto de Ciência Exatas e da Terra, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso - UFMT, Av. Fernando Corrêa da Costa, nº 2367, Bairro Boa Esperança, Cuiabá, MT, 78060-900, Brazil.
| | - Valéria Dornelles Gindri Sinhorin
- Laboratórios Integrados de Pesquisa em Química (LIPEQ), Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Ambientais, Instituto de Ciências Naturais, Humanas e Sociais, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Campus de Sinop. Avenida Alexandre Ferronato, nº 1200, Bairro Setor Industrial, CEP 78557-267, Sinop, Mato Grosso, Brazil.
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Rodriguez C, Ibáñez R, Ng M, Spadafora C, Durant-Archibold AA, Gutiérrez M. 19-Hydroxy-bufalin, a major bufadienolide isolated from the parotoid gland secretions of the Panamanian endemic toad Rhinella centralis (Bufonidae), inhibits the growth of Trypanosoma cruzi. Toxicon 2020; 177:89-92. [PMID: 32061723 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
American trypanosomiasis is a parasitic neglected disease, responsible for the death of approximately 10,000 people every year. Amphibians are recognized for producing in their cutaneous glands substances with pharmacological potential against a variety of pathologies. Here we investigated the antiprotozoal activity against Trypanosoma cruzi of bufadienolides isolated from the parotoid glands secretions of the toad Rhinella centralis from Panama. NMR and mass spectrometry analysis led to the identification of the active compound 19-hydroxy-bufalin, for which its antitrypanosomal activity and occurrence in the genus Rhinella are reported for the first time. This compound showed low cytotoxicity and significant selectivity which confers to it a potential role for the treatment of Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Candelario Rodriguez
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panama; Department of Biotechnology, Acharya Nagarjuna University, India; Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y Tecnología, Universidad de Panamá, Panama
| | - Roberto Ibáñez
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), Panama; Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y Tecnología, Universidad de Panamá, Panama
| | - Michelle Ng
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, INDICASAT AIP, Panama
| | - Carmenza Spadafora
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, INDICASAT AIP, Panama
| | - Armando A Durant-Archibold
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panama; Departamento de Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y Tecnología, Universidad de Panamá, Panama
| | - Marcelino Gutiérrez
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panama.
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Ocular Hypotonia and Transient Decrease of Vision as a Consequence of Exposure to a Common Toad Poison. Case Rep Ophthalmol Med 2020; 2020:2983947. [PMID: 32015920 PMCID: PMC6988675 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2983947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The common toad produces venom (bufotoxin) that is produced in the parotid gland of the toad as well as in the skin. This toxic compound is a potent inhibitor of Na+/K+-ATPase activity. Physiological effects of bufotoxin are similar to those of digitalis and cause increased heart rate and muscle contractions. Ocular toxicity was described. A 67-year-old female patient was admitted to the emergency service because of sudden vision loss and a burning sensation in both eyes after she had been exposed to the poison of a toad. Slit lamp examination showed conjunctival hyperaemia and signs of ocular hypotonia. Topical antibiotic treatment was administered, and after 24 hours, corneal oedema and ocular hypotonia were in remission. Inhibition of Na+/K+-ATPase is a well-known effect of the toad venom. Na+/K+-ATPase is a part of corneal endothelial cells, ciliary body, and iris, and its inhibition caused by exposure to bufadienolides induces corneal dysfunction, decreased vision, and ocular hypotonia. Effects of bufadienolides on the decrease of ocular pressure appear to be very strong, with quick action. This rarely described effect of the bufotoxin can be used as a basis for further research of toad venom and its pharmacological potential. Purpose. To present a case of a 67-year-old female patient who experienced a sudden decrease in vision after exposure to the poison from a common toad (Bufo bufo).
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Javůrková VG, Kreisinger J, Procházka P, Požgayová M, Ševčíková K, Brlík V, Adamík P, Heneberg P, Porkert J. Unveiled feather microcosm: feather microbiota of passerine birds is closely associated with host species identity and bacteriocin-producing bacteria. THE ISME JOURNAL 2019; 13:2363-2376. [PMID: 31127178 PMCID: PMC6775979 DOI: 10.1038/s41396-019-0438-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The functional relevance of microbiota is a key aspect for understanding host-microbiota interactions. Mammalian skin harbours a complex consortium of beneficial microorganisms known to provide health and immune-boosting advantages. As yet, however, little is known about functional microbial communities on avian feathers, including their co-evolution with the host and factors determining feather microbiota (FM) diversity. Using 16S rRNA profiling, we investigated how host species identity, phylogeny and geographic origin determine FM in free-living passerine birds. Moreover, we estimated the relative abundance of bacteriocin-producing bacteria (BPB) and keratinolytic feather damaging bacteria (FDB) and evaluated the ability of BPB to affect FM diversity and relative abundance of FDB. Host species identity was associated with feather bacterial communities more strongly than host geographic origin. FM functional properties differed in terms of estimated BPB and FDB relative abundance, with both showing interspecific variation. FM diversity was negatively associated with BPB relative abundance across species, whereas BPB and FDB relative abundance was positively correlated. This study provides the first thorough evaluation of antimicrobial peptides-producing bacterial communities inhabiting the feather integument, including their likely potential to mediate niche-competition and to be associated with functional species-specific feather microbiota in avian hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Gvoždíková Javůrková
- Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Department of Animal Science, Czech University of Life Sciences, Kamýcká 129, 165 00, Prague-Suchdol, Czech Republic.
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, 603 65, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Jakub Kreisinger
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Charles University, Viničná 7, 128 44, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Procházka
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, 603 65, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Milica Požgayová
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, 603 65, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kateřina Ševčíková
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Palacký University, 17. listopadu 50, 771 46, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Vojtěch Brlík
- Institute of Vertebrate Biology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Květná 8, 603 65, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Peter Adamík
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Palacký University, 17. listopadu 50, 771 46, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Heneberg
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Ruská 87, 100 00, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Porkert
- Home address: Gočárova třída 542/12, 500 02, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
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Toads phenotypically adjust their chemical defences to anthropogenic habitat change. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3163. [PMID: 30816222 PMCID: PMC6395641 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39587-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the well-documented effects of human-induced environmental changes on the morphology, physiology, behaviour and life history of wild animals, next to nothing is known about how anthropogenic habitats influence anti-predatory chemical defence, a crucial fitness component of many species. We investigated the amount and composition of defensive toxins in adult common toads (Bufo bufo) captured in natural, agricultural and urban habitats, and in their offspring raised in a common-garden experiment. We found that, compared to toads captured from natural habitats, adults from both types of anthropogenic habitats had larger toxin glands (parotoids) and their toxin secretion contained higher concentrations of bufagenins, the more potent class of bufadienolide toxins. Furthermore, urban toads had lower concentrations of bufotoxins, the compounds with lower toxicity. None of these differences were present in the captive-raised juveniles; instead, toadlets originating from agricultural habitats had smaller parotoids and lower bufotoxin concentrations. These results suggest that toads' chemical defences respond to the challenges of anthropogenic environments via phenotypic plasticity. These responses may constitute non-adaptive consequences of pollution by endocrine-disrupting chemicals as well as adaptive adjustments to the altered predator assemblages of urban and agricultural habitats.
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Effects of Emerging Infectious Diseases on Amphibians: A Review of Experimental Studies. DIVERSITY-BASEL 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/d10030081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Numerous factors are contributing to the loss of biodiversity. These include complex effects of multiple abiotic and biotic stressors that may drive population losses. These losses are especially illustrated by amphibians, whose populations are declining worldwide. The causes of amphibian population declines are multifaceted and context-dependent. One major factor affecting amphibian populations is emerging infectious disease. Several pathogens and their associated diseases are especially significant contributors to amphibian population declines. These include the fungi Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and B. salamandrivorans, and ranaviruses. In this review, we assess the effects of these three pathogens on amphibian hosts as found through experimental studies. Such studies offer valuable insights to the causal factors underpinning broad patterns reported through observational studies. We summarize key findings from experimental studies in the laboratory, in mesocosms, and from the field. We also summarize experiments that explore the interactive effects of these pathogens with other contributors of amphibian population declines. Though well-designed experimental studies are critical for understanding the impacts of disease, inconsistencies in experimental methodologies limit our ability to form comparisons and conclusions. Studies of the three pathogens we focus on show that host susceptibility varies with such factors as species, host age, life history stage, population and biotic (e.g., presence of competitors, predators) and abiotic conditions (e.g., temperature, presence of contaminants), as well as the strain and dose of the pathogen, to which hosts are exposed. Our findings suggest the importance of implementing standard protocols and reporting for experimental studies of amphibian disease.
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Ujszegi J, Móricz ÁM, Krüzselyi D, Hettyey A. Skin toxin production of toads changes during early ontogeny but is not adjusted to the microbiota of the aquatic environment. Evol Ecol 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10682-017-9920-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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