Neurotoxic kinins from wasp and ant venoms

Bioactive Peptides and Proteins from Wasp Venoms

Wasps, members of the order Hymenoptera, use their venom for predation and defense. Accordingly, their venoms contain various constituents acting on the circulatory, immune and nervous systems. Wasp venom possesses many allergens, enzymes, bioactive peptides, amino acids, biogenic amines, and volatile matters. In particular, some peptides show potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and anticoagulant activity. Additionally, proteinous components from wasp venoms can cause tissue damage or allergic reactions in organisms. These bioactive peptides and proteins involved in wasp predation and defense may be potential sources of lead pharmaceutically active molecules. In this review, we focus on the advances in bioactive peptides and protein from the venom of wasps and their biological effects, as well as the allergic reactions and immunotherapy induced by the wasp venom.

Itch in Hymenoptera Sting Reactions

Insect stings and the resulting itch are a ubiquitous problem. Stings by members of the insect order Hymenoptera, which includes sawflies, wasps, bees and ants, and especially by bees and wasps are extremely common, with 56–94% of the population being stung at least once in their lifetime. The complex process of venom activity and inflammation causes local reactions with pain and pruritus, sometimes anaphylactic reactions and more seldomly, as in case of numerous stings, systemic intoxication. We reviewed the literature regarding itch experienced after Hymenoptera stings, but found no study that placed a specific focus on this topic. Hymenoptera venoms are composed of many biologically active substances, including peptide toxins and proteinaceous toxins. Peptide toxins from bee venom cause cell lysis and ion channel modulation in the peripheral and central nervous systems, while toxins from wasp venom induce mast cell degranulation and chemotaxis of polymorphonuclear leukocytes in the skin. The proteinaceous toxins cause a disruption of the cell membranes and necrotic cell death, degradation of hyaluronan (an extracellular matrix glycosaminoglycan), increased vascular permeability, hemolysis, as well as activated platelet aggregation. Mediators which could be directly involved in the venom-induced pruritus include histamine and tryptase released from mast cells, interleukin-4 and interleukin-13 from Th2 lymphocytes, as well as leukotriene C4. We postulate that a pruriceptive itch is induced due to the pharmacological properties of Hymenoptera venoms.

Antiseizure potential of peptides from the venom of social wasp Chartergellus communis against chemically-induced seizures

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological diseases in the world. The objective of this research was to investigate a new peptide from the venom of the social wasp Chartergellus communis useful to the study or pharmacotherapy of epilepsy. The wasps were collected, and their venom was extracted. Afterward, the steps of fractionation, sequencing, and identification were carried out to obtain four peptides. These molecules were synthesized for behavioral evaluation tests and electroencephalographic assays to determine their antiseizure potential (induction of acute seizures using the chemical compounds, pentylenetetrazole - PTZ, and pilocarpine - PILO) and analysis of neuropharmacological profile (general spontaneous activity and alteration in motor coordination). Chartergellus-CP1 (i.c.v. - 3.0 μg/animal) caused beneficial alterations in some of the parameters evaluated in both models: PTZ (latency and duration of maximum seizures) and PILO (latency and duration of, and protection against, maximum seizures, and reduction of the median of the seizure scores. When evaluated in 3 doses in the seizure model induced by PILO, the dose of 3.0 μg/animal protected the animals against seizures, with an estimated ED₅₀ of 1.49 μg/animal. Electroencephalographic evaluation of Chartergellus-CP1 showed an improvement in latency, quantity, and percentage of protection against generalized electroencephalographic seizures in the PILO model. Further, Chartergellus-CP1 did not cause adverse effects on general spontaneous activity and motor coordination of animals. This study demonstrated how compounds isolated from wasps' venom may be important resources in the search for new drugs. Such compounds can be considered valuable therapeutic and biotechnological tools for the study and future treatment of epileptic disorders. In this context, a peptide that is potentially useful for epilepsy pharmacotherapy was identified in the venom of C. communis.

Chemical and Biological Characteristics of Antimicrobial α-Helical Peptides Found in Solitary Wasp Venoms and Their Interactions with Model Membranes

Solitary wasps use their stinging venoms for paralyzing insect or spider prey and feeding them to their larvae. We have surveyed bioactive substances in solitary wasp venoms, and found antimicrobial peptides together with some other bioactive peptides. Eumenine mastoparan-AF (EMP-AF) was the first to be found from the venom of the solitary eumenine wasp Anterhynchium flavomarginatum micado, showing antimicrobial, histamine-releasing, and hemolytic activities, and adopting an α-helical secondary structure under appropriate conditions. Further survey of solitary wasp venom components revealed that eumenine wasp venoms contained such antimicrobial α-helical peptides as the major peptide component. This review summarizes the results obtained from the studies of these peptides in solitary wasp venoms and some analogs from the viewpoint of (1) chemical and biological characterization; (2) physicochemical properties and secondary structure; and (3) channel-like pore-forming properties.

Evaluation of Thr6-bradykinin purified from Polybia occidentalis wasp venom in the choline uptake of mammal cortices

CONTEXT

Thr⁶-bradykinin is a peptide found in the venom of social and solitary wasps. This kinin, along with other bradykinin-like peptides, is known to cause irreversible paralysis in insects by presynaptic blockade of cholinergic transmission. However, this activity has never been tested in mammals.

OBJECTIVE

As such, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Thr⁶-bradykinin on the cholinergic system of rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The peptide was isolated from the venom of the Neotropical social wasp Polybia occidentalis Olivier (Vespidae). After correct identification and quantification by ESI-MS and MS/MS, the peptide was tested in [¹⁴C]-choline uptake using rat cortical synaptosomes. Each uptake assay was accompanied by lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH) activity measurement to evaluate synaptosome integrity in the presence of six increasing concentrations of BK or Thr⁶-BK (0.039, 0.156, 0.625, 2.500, 10.000 and 40.000 μM).

RESULTS

Data revealed that neither BK nor Thr⁶-BK at any of the six concentrations tested (from 0.039 to 40.000 μM) affected [¹⁴C]-choline uptake in synaptosomes. Moreover, there was no increase in LDH in the supernatants, indicating that BK and Thr⁶-BK did not disrupt the synaptosomes.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

In contrast to previous reports for the insect central nervous system (CNS), Thr⁶-BK had no effect on mammalian cholinergic transmission. Nevertheless, this selectivity for the insect CNS, combined with its irreversible mode of action may be relevant to the discovery of new sources of insecticides and could contribute to understanding the role of kinins in the mammalian CNS.

Peptide Toxins in Solitary Wasp Venoms

Solitary wasps paralyze insects or spiders with stinging venom and feed the paralyzed preys to their larva. Accordingly, the venoms should contain a variety of constituents acting on nervous systems. However, only a few solitary wasp venoms have been chemically studied despite thousands of species inhabiting the planet. We have surveyed bioactive substances in solitary wasp venoms found in Japan and discovered a variety of novel bioactive peptides. Pompilidotoxins (PMTXs), in the venoms of the pompilid wasps Anoplius samariensis and Batozonellus maculifrons, are small peptides consisting of 13 amino acids without a disulfide bond. PMTXs slowed Na⁺ channel inactivation, in particular against neuronal type Na⁺ channels, and were rather selective to the Nav1.6 channel. Mastoparan-like cytolytic and antimicrobial peptides are the major components of eumenine wasp venoms. They are rich in hydrophobic and basic amino acids, adopting a α-helical secondary structure, and showing mast cell degranulating, antimicrobial and hemolytic activities. The venom of the spider wasp Cyphononyx fulvognathus contained four bradykinin-related peptides. They are hyperalgesic and, dependent on the structure, differently associated with B₁ or B₂ receptors. Further survey led to the isolation of leucomyosuppressin-like FMRFamide peptides from the venoms of the digger wasps Sphex argentatus and Isodontia harmandi. These results of peptide toxins in solitary wasp venoms from our studies are summarized.

Anxiolytic activity and evaluation of potentially adverse effects of a bradykinin-related peptide isolated from a social wasp venom

Anxiety disorders are major health problems in terms of costs stemming from sick leave, disabilities, healthcare and premature mortality. Despite the availability of classic anxiolytics, some anxiety disorders are still resistant to treatment, with higher rates of adverse effects. In this respect, several toxins isolated from arthropod venoms are useful in identifying new compounds to treat neurological disorders, particularly pathological anxiety. Thus, the aims of this study were to identify and characterize an anxiolytic peptide isolated from the venom of the social wasp Polybia paulista. The peptide was identified as Polisteskinin R, with nominal molecular mass [M+H](+)=1301Da and primary structure consisting of Ala-Arg-Arg-Pro-Pro-Gly-Phe-Thr-Pro-Phe-Arg-OH. The anxiolytic effect was tested using the elevated plus maze test. Moreover, adverse effects on the spontaneous behavior and motor coordination of animals were assessed using the open field and rotarod tests. Polisteskinin R induced a dose-dependent anxiolytic effect. Animals treated with the peptide and diazepam spent significantly more time into the open arms when compared to the groups treated with the vehicle and pentylenetetrazole. No significant differences in spontaneous behavior or motor coordination were observed between the groups, showing that the peptide was well tolerated. The interaction by agonists in both known BK receptors induces a variability of physiological effects; Polisteskinin R can act on these receptors, inducing modulatory activity and thus, attenuating anxiety behaviors. The results of this study demonstrated that the compound Polisteskinin R exerted potent anxiolytic effects and its analogues are promising candidates for experimental pharmacology.

Peptidome profiling of venom from the social wasp Polybia paulista

Most crude venom from Polybia paulista is composed of short, linear peptides; however, only five of these peptides are structurally and functionally characterized. Therefore, the peptides in this venom were profiled using an HPLC-IT-TOF/MS and MS(n) system. The presence of type -d and -w ions that are generated from the fragmentation of the side chains was used to resolve I/L ambiguity. The distinction between K and Q residues was achieved through esterification of the α- and ε-amino groups in the peptide chains, followed by mass spectrometry analysis. Fourteen major peptides were detected in P. paulista venom and sequenced; all the peptides were synthesized on solid-phase and submitted to a series of bioassays. Five of them had been previously characterized, and nine were novel toxins. The novel peptides correspond to two wasp kinins, two chemotactic components, three mastoparans, and two peptides of unknown function. The seven novel peptides with identified functions appear to act synergistically with the previously known ones, constituting three well-known families of peptide toxins (wasp kinins, chemotactic peptides, and mastoparans) in the venom of social wasps. These multifunctional toxins can cause pain, oedema formation, haemolysis, chemotaxis of PMNLs, and mast cell degranulation in victims who are stung by wasps.

A rare case of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis precipitated by hydrocortisone

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP) is a rare, but serious condition characterized by acute paralytic attacks and hypokalemia in association with thyrotoxicosis. Although carbohydrate rich meals, strenuous exercise, alcohol, emotional stress are known precipitants of TPP, steroid treatment has rarely been reported to induce TPP. We report a case in which a patient with previously untreated Grave's disease developed TPP following administration of Intravenous hydrocortisone for control of severe anaphylaxis, which to best of our knowledge is very rare.

Anticonvulsant and anxiolytic activity of the peptide fraction isolated from the venom of the social wasp Polybia paulista

BACKGROUND

Arthropod venoms have attracted interest because they represent a source of neuroactive compounds that can be useful tools in neuroscience and pharmacological investigations.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the present work was to evaluate the anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, and behavioral effects of the peptide fraction separated from venom of the social wasp.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The low- molecular-weight compounds of the venom were separated by ultrafiltration and the bioassays were performed to test anticonvulsant and anxiolytic effects, as well as alterations in the spontaneous behavior of the animals.

RESULTS

Intracerebroventricular injections of the compounds induced dose-dependent anticonvulsant effects and a potent anxiolytic activity. Regarding behavioral effects, no significant differences were observed in relation to the saline control group.

CONCLUSION

The low-molecular-weight compounds of the venom of Polybia paulista include neuroactive peptides that can be used as pharmacological resources for anticonvulsant and anxiolytic drug research.

Differential gene expression profiles in the venom gland/sac of Orancistrocerus drewseni (Hymenoptera: Eumenidae)

To determine differential gene expression profiles in the venom gland and sac (gland/sac) of a solitary hunting wasp species, Orancistrocerus drewseni Saussure (1857), a subtractive cDNA library was constructed by suppression subtractive hybridization. A total of 498 expressed sequence tags (EST) were clustered and assembled into 205 contigs (94 multiple sequences and 111 singletons). About 65% (134) of the contigs had matched BLASTx hits (E< or =10(-4)). Among these, 115 contigs had similarity to proteins with assigned molecular function in the Gene Ontology database, and most of them (112 contigs, 83%) were homologous to genes from Hymenoptera, particularly to Apis mellifera (98 contigs). The contigs encoding hyaluronidase and phospholipase A2, known to be main components of wasp venoms, were found in high frequencies (27 and 4%, respectively, as judged by the number of ESTs) in the gene ontology category of catalytic activity. Full-length open reading frames of hyaluronidase and phospholipase A2 were characterized and their abundance in the venom gland/sac was confirmed by quantitative real-time PCR. Several contigs encoding enzymes, including zinc-metallopeptidases that are likely involved in the processing and activation of venomous proteins or peptides, were also identified from the library. Discovery of venom gland/sac-specific genes should promote further studies on biologically active components in the venom of O. drewseni.

Melectin: a novel antimicrobial peptide from the venom of the cleptoparasitic bee Melecta albifrons

A novel antimicrobial peptide designated melectin was isolated from the venom of the cleptoparasitic bee Melecta albifrons. Its primary sequence was established as H-Gly-Phe-Leu-Ser-Ile-Leu-Lys-Lys-Val-Leu-Pro-Lys-Val-Met-Ala-His-Met-Lys-NH(2) by Edman degradation and ESI-QTOF mass spectrometry. Synthetic melectin exhibited antimicrobial activity against both gram-positive and -negative bacteria and it degranulated rat peritoneal mast cells, but its hemolytic activity was low. The CD spectra of melectin measured in the presence of trifluoroethanol and sodium dodecyl sulfate showed a high content alpha-helices, which indicates that melectin can adopt an amphipathic alpha-helical secondary structure in an anisotropic environment such as the bacterial cell membrane. To envisage the role of the proline residue located in the middle of the peptide chain on biological activity and secondary structure, we prepared several melectin analogues in which the Pro11 residue was either replaced by other amino acid residues or was omitted. The results of biological testing suggest that a Pro kink in the alpha-helical structure of melectin plays an important role in selectivity for bacterial cells. In addition, a series of N- and C-terminal-shortened analogues was synthesized to examine which region of the peptide is related to antimicrobial activity.

Inhibition of acute nociceptive responses in rats after i.c.v. injection of Thr6-bradykinin, isolated from the venom of the social wasp, Polybia occidentalis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

In this work, a neuroactive peptide from the venom of the neotropical wasp Polybia occidentalis was isolated and its anti-nociceptive effects were characterized in well-established pain induction models.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Wasp venom was analysed by reverse-phase HPLC and fractions screened for anti-nociceptive activity. The structure of the most active fraction was identified by electron-spray mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS) and it was further assessed in two tests of anti-nociceptive activity in rats: the hot plate and tail flick tests.

KEY RESULTS

The most active fraction contained a peptide whose structure was Arg-Pro-Pro-Gly-Phe-Thr-Pro-Phe-Arg-OH, which corresponds to that of Thr(6)-BK, a bradykinin analogue. This peptide was given by i.c.v. injection to rats. In the tail flick test, Thr(6)-BK induced anti-nociceptive effects, approximately twice as potent as either morphine or bradykinin also given i.c.v. The anti-nociceptive activity of Thr(6)-BK peaked at 30 min after injection and persisted for 2 h, longer than bradykinin. The primary mode of action of Thr(6)-BK involved the activation of B(2) bradykinin receptors, as anti-nociceptive effects of Thr(6)-BK were antagonized by a selective B(2) receptor antagonist.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Our data indicate that Thr(6)-BK acts through B(2) bradykinin receptors in the mammalian CNS, evoking antinociceptive behaviour. This activity is remarkably different from that of bradykinin, despite the structural similarities between both peptides. In addition, due to the increased metabolic stability of Thr(6)-BK, relative to that of bradykinin, this peptide could provide a novel tool in the investigation of kinin pathways involved with pain.

Identification of three novel peptides isolated from the venom of the neotropical social waspPolistes major major

Three novel peptides designated as PMM1, PMM2, and PMM3 were isolated and characterized from the venom of the social wasp Polistes major major, one of the most common wasps in the Dominican Republic. By Edman degradation, and MALDI-TOF and ESI-QTOF mass spectrometry, the primary sequences of these peptides were established as follows: PMM1, H-Lys-Arg-Arg-Pro-Pro-Gly-Phe-Thr-Pro-Phe-Arg-OH (1357.77 Da); PMM2, H-Ile-Asn-Trp-Lys-Lys-Ile-Ala-Ser-Ile-Gly-Lys-Glu-Val-Leu-Lys-Ala-Leu-NH2 (1909.19 Da); and PMM3, H-Phe-Leu-Ser-Ala-Leu-Leu-Gly-Met-Leu-Lys-Asn-Leu-NH2 (1317.78 Da). The suggested sequences were confirmed by MS analysis of peptide fragments obtained by enzymatic digestion. The peptide PMM1 is a lysyl-arginyl-Thr(6)-bradykinine that belongs to the wasp kinins group. The sequence of the PMM2 peptide is unique; it resembles somewhat the tetradecapeptide amides of the mastoparan group; however, the chain is extended by three additional amino acid residues. The sequence of PMM3 dodecapeptide is homologous to the peptides of the wasp chemotactic group.

Two new bradykinin-related peptides from the venom of the social wasp Protopolybia exigua (Saussure)

Two bradykinin-related peptides (Protopolybiakinin-I and Protopolybiakinin-II) were isolated from the venom of the social wasp Protopolybia exigua by RP-HPLC, and sequenced by Edman degradation method. Peptide sequences of Protopolybiakinin-I and Protopolybiakinin-II were DKNKKPIRVGGRRPPGFTR-OH and DKNKKPIWMAGFPGFTPIR-OH, respectively. Synthetic peptides with identical sequences to the bradykinin-related peptides and their biological functions were characterized. Protopolybiakinin-I caused less potent constriction of the isolated rat ileum muscles than bradykinin (BK). In addition, it caused degranulation of mast cells which was seven times more potent than BK. This peptide causes algesic effects due to the direct activation of B(2)-receptors. Protopolybiakinin-II is not an agonist of rat ileum muscle and had no algesic effects. However, Protopolybiakinin-II was found to be 10 times more potent as a mast cell degranulator than BK. The amino acid sequence of Protopolybiakinin-I is the longest among the known wasp kinins.

Multiple bradykinin-related peptides from the capture web of the spider Nephila clavipes (Araneae, Tetragnatidae)

Three bradykinin-related peptides (nephilakinins-I to -III) and bradykinin itself were isolated from the aqueous washing extract of the capture web of the spider Nephila clavipes by gel permeation chromatography on a Sephacryl S-100 column, followed by chromatography in a Hi-Trap Sephadex-G25 Superfine column. The novel peptides occurred in low concentrations and were sequenced through ESI-MS/MS analysis: nephilakinin-I (G-P-N-P-G-F-S-P-F-R-NH2), nephilakinin-II (E-A-P-P-G-F-S-P-F-R-NH2) and nephilakinin-III (P-S-P-P-G-F-S-P-F-R-NH2). Synthetic peptides replicated the novel bradykinin-related peptides, which were submitted to biological characterizations. Nephilakinins were shown to cause constriction on isolated rat ileum preparations and relaxation on rat duodenum muscle preparations at amounts higher than bradykinin; apparently these peptides constitute B2-type agonists of ileal and duodenal smooth muscles. All peptides including the bradykinin were moderately lethal to honeybees. These bradykinin peptides may be related to the predation of insects by the webs of N. clavipes.

Modulation of nicotinic acetylcholine and N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors by some Hymenopteran venoms

The effect of 19 venoms from solitary wasps, solitary bees, social wasps and ants were investigated for their effects on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) and ionotropic glutamate receptors (IGRs) of both the N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDAR) and non-NMDAR type. Whole-cell patch clamp of human muscle TE671 cells was used to study nAChR, and of rat cortical and cerebellar granule cells for IGRs. Solitary wasp venoms caused significant voltage-dependent antagonism of nAChR responses to 10 microM ACh and NMDAR responses to 100 microM NMDA (+10 microM glycine) when co-applied at 1 microg/ml with the agonists. At positive holding potentials (V(H)) potentiation of these receptors was observed with some venoms. Solitary bee venoms only affected nAChR by causing either voltage-independent antagonism or potentiation of their responses to 10 microM ACh. Of four social wasp venoms, one acted on nAChR by potentiating responses to 10 ACh, while another generated an ACh-like response when applied alone. They had no effect on IGRs. Of the two ant venoms, one caused voltage-independent inhibition of nAChR. Neither affected IGRs. The data indicate the presence of nAChR agonists and antagonists and NMDAR antagonists in Hymenopteran venoms and warrant further investigation to separate and identify these venom components.

Anticonvulsant effects of the wasp Polybia ignobilis venom on chemically induced seizures and action on GABA and glutamate receptors

Venoms of spiders and wasps are well recognized to present high affinity to the central nervous tissue of many mammalian species. Here we describe the effects of direct exposure of rat (Rattus norvegicus) brains to the crude and denatured venom of the Brazilian social wasp Polybia ignobilis. Lower doses of crude venom injected via intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) inhibited the exploratory activity of animals, while higher doses provoked severe generalized tonic-clonic seizures, with hind limb extension. The status epilepticus lasted for few minutes leading the animals to respiratory depression and death. In contrast, the denatured venom was anticonvulsant against acute seizures induced by the i.c.v. injection of bicuculline, picrotoxin and kainic acid, but it was ineffective against seizures caused by systemic pentylenetetrazole. Moreover, the [3H]-glutamate binding in membranes from rat brain cortex was inhibited by the denatured venom in lower concentrations than the [3H]-GABA binding. The denatured venom contains free GABA and glutamate (34 and 802 pg/microg of venom, respectively), but they are not the major binding inhibitors. These interactions of venom components with GABA and glutamate receptors could be responsible for the anticonvulsant effects introducing the venom from P. ignobilis as a potential pharmacological source of anticonvulsant drugs.

Structural characterization of cyclic kallidin analogues in DMSO by nuclear magnetic resonance and molecular dynamics

The conformational properties in DMSO of two head-to-tail cyclic analogues of kallidin ([Lys(0)]-bradykinin, KL) as well as those of the corresponding linear peptides were studied by NMR and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The modifications in the sequence were introduced at position 6, resulting in the four peptides, [Tyr(6)]-KL (YKL), [Trp(6)]-KL (WKL), cyclo-([Tyr(6)]-KL) (YCKL) and cyclo-([Trp(6)]-KL) (WCKL). The linear WKL analogue was significantly more potent than kallidin on rat duodenum preparations, whereas YKL was significantly less potent. Both cyclic peptides, YCKL and WCKL displayed similar activity, lower than that of the linear analogues and also of cyclo-KL. The two linear analogues display high conformational flexibility in DMSO. In the predominant conformer, for both peptides, all three X-Pro bonds adopt a trans configuration. Three out of four conformers present in YCKL and WCKL were completely assigned. The configurations at the X-Pro bonds are the same for the two analogues. All cyclic conformers show a cis configuration in at least one X-Pro bond and always opposite configuration for the two consecutive X-Pro bonds. The NOE-restrained MD calculations resulted in the detection of several elements of secondary structure in each of the conformers. Such elements are described and their possible relevance to biological activity is discussed.

Effects of microinjections of neurotoxin AvTx8, isolated from the social wasp Agelaia vicina (Hymenoptera, Vespidae) venom, on GABAergic nigrotectal pathways

Several investigations have provided information that defensive behaviors evoked by stimulation of deep layers of the superior colliculus (dlSC) are subjected to inhibitory nigral modulation. This inhibition is made mainly through GABAergic neurons from substantia nigra, pars reticulata (SNpr), that sends outputs toward neural networks of the deep layers of the superior colliculus and dorsal periaqueductal gray matter involved with the organization of fear-like responses. In this work, we compared the effects of two GABAergic agonists, muscimol and baclofen, with the effect of neurotoxin AvTx8 (1567 Da), isolated from the venom of the social wasp Agelaia vicina, microinjected into SNpr of Rattus norvegicus (Wistar rats) prior to dlSC saline or bicuculline microinjections, considering that wasp venom has some influence on the uptake of GABA and/or glutamate neurotransmitters. GABA(A) receptor blockade in the dlSC evoked a vigorous escape behavior, expressed by rapid running, jumps and turns, as compared to control. These defensive reactions were maximized after the intranigral GABA(A) agonism with muscimol, but not after in situ GABA(B) agonism. Nigral microinjection of AvTx8 induced similar effects to those of baclofen, decreasing the intensity of behavioral defensive reactions caused by GABA(A) receptor blockade in the dorsal mesencephalon. These findings suggest that AvTx8 has some effects on GABAergic neurotransmission, increasing the activity of the inhibitory nigro-collicular pathways, causing an anti-panic (antiaversive) effect. Therefore, our work suggests AvTx8 as a novel pharmacological tool to study differences between the two types of GABAergic receptors and excitatory amino acid-mediated mechanisms in the brain and brainstem networks.

Small peptides, big world: biotechnological potential in neglected bioactive peptides from arthropod venoms

Until recently, a toxinologist's tasks involved the search for highly toxic or lethal toxins in animal venoms that could explain the harmful effects in clinically observed symptoms. Most of these toxins were put on evidence using a function to structure approach, in which a biological phenomena observation usually guided the isolation and characterization of the causative molecule. Paving this way, many toxins were promptly purified because of their readily observed effect. Nevertheless, small molecules with micro-effects that are not easily visualized can be relatively neglected or poorly studied. This situation has changed now with the advent of the sensitivity, resolution and accuracy of techniques such as mass spectrometry and proteomic approaches used in toxinology. Taking advantage of these methodologies, small peptides with 'newly exploited' biological activities such as vasoactive, hormone-like, antimicrobial and others have been recently given much more attention, enlarging the known repertoire of bioactive molecules found in animal venoms. This article aims to review current knowledge on small biologically active peptides (<3 kDa) found in arthropod venoms and discuss their potentialities as new drug candidates or therapeutic lead compounds.

Spider and wasp neurotoxins: pharmacological and biochemical aspects

Venoms from several arthropods are recognized as useful sources of bioactive substances, such as peptides, acylpolyamines, and alkaloids, which show a wide range of pharmacological effects on synaptic transmission. In this work, we summarize and compile several biochemical and pharmacological aspects related to spider and wasp neurotoxins. Their inhibitory and stimulatory actions on ion channels, receptors, and transporters involved in mammalian and insect neurotransmission are considered.

Identification of bradykinins in solitary wasp venoms

Bradykinins were identified in three solitary wasp venoms. Purification and characterization of the venom extract of the scoliid wasp Megacampsomeris prismatica led to the identification of bradykinin and threonine(6)-bradykinin as the major peptide components. The survey of a number of extracts from solitary wasp venom by MALDI-TOF MS revealed that the venoms of two other scoliid wasps, Campsomeriella annulata annulata and Carinoscolia melanosoma fascinata, also contained Thr(6)-BK as one of the major components. Thus, this study showed the presence of bradykinins in some of the solitary wasp venoms. Moreover, it indicated that these peptides play a major role in their paralyzing action for prey capture because these bradykinins have been shown to block the synaptic transmission of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in the insect central nervous system.

Synthesis, conformation and biological activity of linear and cyclic Thr6-bradykinin analogues containing N-benzylglycine in place of phenylalanine

Three linear Thr6-bradykinin analogues in which either one or both the two phenylalanine residues in the peptide sequence have been substituted by N-benzylglycine (BzlGly) and their head-to-tail cyclic analogues were synthesized and tested on an isolated rat duodenum preparation. The linear (BzlGly5,Thr6-BK, BzlGly8,Thr6-BK and BzlGly(5,8),Thr6-BK) and the cyclic (cyclo BzlGly5,Thr6-BK, cyclo BzlGly8,Thr6-BK and cyclo BzlGly(5,8),Thr6-BK) peptoid-like analogues were characterized by amino acid analysis, optical rotation, analytical HPLC and MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy. The conformational features of both the linear and cyclic derivatives were investigated by FT-IR and CD measurements. Preliminary molecular mechanics calculations were also performed on some synthetic peptides. Pharmacological screening using the relaxation of the isolated rat duodenum preparation showed that incorporation of N-benzylglycine at positions 5 and/or 8 in the linear Thr6-BK causes a substantial decrease in potency. Comparable incorporation in cyclo Thr6-BK, at position 8, or 5 and 8, resulted in nearly inactive analogues. However, cyclo BzlGly5,Thr6-BK showed a potency which is of the same order of magnitude as for cyclo-BK and cyclo Thr6-BK.

Isolation and sequence determination of peptides in the venom of the spider wasp (Cyphononyx dorsalis) guided by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry

Micro-scale (sub-pmol) isolation and sequence determination of three peptides from the venom of the solitary spider wasp Cyphononyx dorsalis is described. We isolated two novel peptides Cd-125 and Cd-146 and a known peptide Thr(6)-bradykinin from only two venom sacs of solitary spider wasp Cyphononyx dorsalis without bioassay-guided fractionation, but instead guided by MALDI-TOF MS. The MALDI-TOF MS analysis of each fraction showed the purity and molecular weight of the components, which led to the isolation of the peptides virtually without loss of sample amount. The sequences of the novel peptides Cd-125 (Asp-Thr-Ala-Arg-Leu-Lys-Trp-His) and Cd-146 (Ser-Glu-Thr-Gly-Asn-Thr-Val-Thr-Val-Lys-Gly-Phe-Ser-Pro-Leu-Arg) were determined by Edman degradation together with mass spectrometry, and finally corroborated by solid-phase synthesis. The known peptide Thr(6)-bradykinin (Arg-Pro-Pro-Gly-Phe-Thr-Pro-Phe-Arg) was identified by comparison with the synthetic authentic specimen. This is the first example for any kinins to be found in Pompilidae wasp venoms. The procedure reported here can be applicable to studies on many other components of solitary wasp venoms with limited sample availability.

Structure and biological activities of eumenine mastoparan-AF (EMP-AF), a new mast cell degranulating peptide in the venom of the solitary wasp (Anterhynchium flavomarginatum micado)

A new mast cell degranulating peptide, eumenine mastoparan-AF (EMP-AF), was isolated from the venom of the solitary wasp Anterhynchium flavomarginatum micado, the most common eumenine wasp found in Japan. The structure was analyzed by FAB-MS/MS together with Edman degradation, which was corroborated by solid-phase synthesis. The sequence of EMP-AF, Ile-Asn-Leu-Leu-Lys-Ile-Ala-Lys-Gly-Ile-Ile-Lys-Ser-Leu-NH(2), was similar to that of mastoparan, a mast cell degranulating peptide from a hornet venom; tetradecapeptide with C-terminus amidated and rich in hydrophobic and basic amino acids. In fact, EMP-AF exhibited similar activity to mastoparan in stimulating degranulation from rat peritoneal mast cells and RBL-2H3 cells. It also showed significant hemolytic activity in human erythrocytes. Therefore, this is the first example that a mast cell degranulating peptide is found in the solitary wasp venom. Besides the degranulation and hemolytic activity, EMP-AF also affects on neuromuscular transmission in the lobster walking leg preparation. Three analogs EMP-AF-1 approximately 3 were snythesized and biologically tested together with EMP-AF, resulting in the importance of the C-terminal amide structure for biological activities.

Isolation and structure of pompilidotoxins, novel peptide neurotoxins in solitary wasp venoms

Novel peptide neurotoxins, alpha- and beta-pompilidotoxins (alpha- and beta-PMTXs), were purified from the venoms of the solitary wasps Anoplius samariensis and Batozonellus maculifrons. Their structures were analyzed mostly by MALDI-TOF-MS, which were corroborated by solid-phase synthesis. alpha-PMTX, with 13 amino acid residues and the sequence of Arg-Ile-Lys-Ile-Gly-Leu-Phe-Gln-Asp-Leu-Ser-Lys-Leu-NH2, greatly potentiates synaptic transmission of lobster leg muscle by the presynaptic mechanisms. beta-PMTX, in which the lysine residue at 12 position of alpha-PMTX was replaced with arginine, was more potent than alpha-PMTX.

Isolation, characterization and biological properties of two kinin-like peptides (peptide-S and peptide-r) from Scaptocosa raptoria venom

Two peptides with kinin-like biological properties were isolated by chromatography on a Sephadex G-10 column followed by high-performance liquid chromatography, from the venom of the spider Scaptocosa raptoria. The isolated peptides (peptide-S and peptide-R) were shown to cause contraction on the isolated guinea-pig ileum at amounts equivalent to those shown by bradykinin. Both peptides relaxed the isolated rat duodenum, increased the capillary permeability, caused decreasing and biphasic effect of the arterial blood pressure in conscious rats and induced oedema in the rat paw. The peptides had activity and structural similarities to other peptides (kinin-like) isolated from venoms. The complete amino acid analysis gave peptide-S a structure with 36 amino acid residues and peptide-R 22 amino acid residues. The mol. wts were estimated to be in the range of 4000 and 2870, respectively.

Pharmacological investigation of oedema induced by venom from the wasp Polistes fuscatus

Subplantar injection of Polistes fuscatus venom induced dose-dependent rat hindpaw oedema. The oedema was significant in the first hour and reached maximum size in the fifth hour after injection of the venom (20-600 micrograms/paw). Low doses of the venom (20-80 micrograms/paw) produced oedema which disappeared within 48 hr after injection, while at doses of 300-600 micrograms/paw, oedema was present in excess of 48 hr. Pharmacological studies suggested that P. fuscatus venom-induced oedema probably has a mechanism which is multimediated. Pretreatment of rats with a combination of cyproheptadine (5 mg/kg)-captopril (2 mg/kg)-dexamethasone (1 mg/kg) inhibited the formation of oedema (maximal swelling) produced by the venom (300 micrograms/paw) by about 79% and improved the time to recovery. Paw swellings caused by 20 and 40 micrograms/paw venom were completely eliminated by the same doses of this drug combination. The kinins, autacoids (histamine and serotonin) and lipogenase derivatives are probably involved in the venom-induced oedema.

Synthesis and biological activities of head-to-tail cyclic bradykinin analogues of varying ring size

Syntheses of cyclic kinin analogues with different backbone atom numbers are described. Cyclization, by either the O-benzotriazolyl-N,N,N',N'-tetramethyluronium tetrafluoroborate/1-hydroxybenzotriazole/diisopropylethyl amine (TBTU-HOBt-DIPEA) or the diphenylphosphoryl azide (DPPA) procedure of linear peptides prepared by the solid-phase method based on the g-fluorenyl methyloxycarbonyl chemistry, was used for preparing cyclo-Gly-Ile-Ile-Gly-bradykinin, cyclo-Lys-kallidin (cyclo-Lys-Lys-bradykinin) and cyclo-des Arg-bradykinin. Peptides were characterized by amino acid analysis, optical rotation, analytical high-performance liquid chromatography and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time flight mass spectrometry. Pharmacological experiments showed that cyclo-Gly-Ile-Ile-Gly-bradykinin (39 backbone atoms) and cyclo-Lys-bradykinin (30 backbone atoms) are about equipotent, when tested on the relaxation of the isolated rat duodenum preparation. The potency of cyclo-des Arg-bradykinin is at least three orders of magnitude lower. The potency of cyclo-Lys-Lys-bradykinin (33 backbone atoms) is one tenth the activity of bradykinin but about 10 times higher than the potency of the above-mentioned cyclokinins and makes the latter analogue the most potent end-to-end cyclic analogue known currently. The present results, in agreement with data from earlier reports, seem to indicate that the enhancement of the number of backbone atoms in the cyclic kinins first increases and subsequently decreases the potency, whereas a reduction in the atom number from 27 to 24 causes a dramatic decrease in potency.

Threonine6-bradykinin: structural characterization in the presence of micelles by nuclear magnetic resonance and distance geometry

The conformation of the natural peptide [Thr6]-bradykinin, Arg1-Pro2-Pro3-Gly4-Phe5-Thr6-Pro7-Phe8-Arg9, is investigated by NMR spectroscopy and computer simulations in an aqueous solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate micelles. The structural analysis of the peptide is of particular interest since it displays a different biological profile from bradykinin despite the high sequence homology (only one conservative substitution: Ser6/Thr6) and the fact that both peptides bind and activate common receptors. The SDS micelles provide a model system for the membrane-interface environment the peptide experiences when interacting with the membrane-embedded receptor and allow for the conformational examination of the peptide using high-resolution NMR techniques. The NMR spectra show that the micellar system induces a secondary structure in the otherwise inherently flexible peptide (as observed in benign aqueous solution). The distance geometry calculations indicate a beta-turn of type I about residues 7-8 as the preferred conformation. The results of ensemble calculations reveal conformational changes occurring rapidly on the NMR time scale and allow for the identification of three different families of conformations that average to reproduce the NMR observables. The three families differ in the type of conformation adopted at the C-terminus: type I beta-turn, type II beta-turn and a third conformation, intermediate between the two beta-turns. The structural results support the hypothesis of the determining role of the C-terminal conformation for biological activity and can provide an explanation of the different activities observed for bradykinin and [Thr6]-bradykinin.

Isolation and characterization of a bradykinin potentiating peptide (BPP-S) isolated from Scaptocosa raptoria venom

Venom of the spider Scaptocosa raptoria was fractionated by chromatography on Sephadex G-10 followed by HPLC, and a bradykinin potentiating peptide, BPP-S, was obtained in pure form. The amino acid sequence of this undecapeptide is presented. Peptide BPP-S significantly potentiates the effects of bradykinin on smooth muscle, and inhibits the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in vitro.

Conformation of cyclobradykinin by NMR and distance geometry calculations

The conformation of the head-to-tail cyclic analogue of bradykinin in DMSO was investigated by nmr. Three sets of resonances were detected and fully assigned. These were attributed to the presence of three stable conformers, two of which were exchanging on the nmr time scale. A fourth, incomplete set of resonances was detected but not assigned. The three major conformers differ in the conformation at the three X-Pro bonds present. From nuclear Overhauser effect spectroscopy (NOESY) spectra, three sets of interproton distances were derived and used in NOE-restrained distance geometry calculations. The resulting structures were refined by energy minimization to yield families of structures. Conformer I is characterized by the presence of two type VIb beta-turns between Arg1 and Gly4 and between Phe5 and Phe8. The first beta-turn is present also in conformer II, while an inverse gamma-turn bridging Pro3 is the most pronounced structural feature of conformer III.

Bilateral pallidostriatal necrosis caused by a wasp sting: a clinical and pathological study

A previously healthy man developed an acute encephalopathy with coma after a single wasp sting on his chin. Brain CT showed bilateral pallidostriatal radio-lucencies. He died 72 hours after the sting with no evidence of primary cardiorespiratory failure or allergic reaction. Pathological findings were bilateral pallidostriatal necrosis and diffuse neuronal damage in the frontal, temporal, and parietal cortex. The neurotoxic effect of the poison, together with a hypersensitivity are the most likely explanations for this unusual encephalopathy.

Synthesis and biological activity of some linear and cyclic kinin analogues

Syntheses are described of some linear and cyclic kinin analogues. Cyclization, by the diphenyl-phosphorazide method, of linear peptides prepared by the solid-phase procedure based on Fmoc chemistry, was used for preparing cyclo-bradykinin and cyclo-kallidin (cyclo-Lys-bradykinin). Removal of the protecting group from the lysine side chain of cyclo-kallidin followed by acylation with the N-terminal sequence of vespulakinin 1 (VSK 1), Fmoc-Thr(tBu)-Ala-Thr(tBu)-Thr(tBu)-Arg(Pmc)-Arg(Pmc)-Gly-OH, by the Bop-HOBt procedure, yielded the protected N epsilon-(1-8 VSK 1)-cyclo-N alpha-kallidin, which was deblocked by acid treatment and purified by semi-preparative HPLC. The diglycosylated 1-8 VSK 1 sequence Boc-Thr(tBu)-Ala-(Gal beta)Thr-(Gal beta)Thr-Arg(Pmc)-Arg(Pmc)-Gly-OH was also synthesized by the solid-phase procedure and used to prepare the N epsilon-[(Gal beta)Thr3, (Gal beta)Thr4, 1-8 VSK 1]-cyclo-N-alpha- kallidin. Peptides and glycopeptides were characterized by amino acid analysis, optical rotation, analytical HPLC and FAB-MS. Preliminary pharmacological experiments showed that the cyclic kinin analogues are much less potent then bradykinin but still show specific bradykinin-like actions that support the hypothesis of the presence of a pharmacophore in the centre of the (brady)kinin molecule.

Activation by Phoneutria nigriventer (armed spider) venom of tissue kallikrein-kininogen-kinin system in rabbit skin in vivo

1. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the mechanisms by which venom from Phoneutria nigriventer spider induces increases in vascular permeability in rabbit skin. 2. Local oedema formation, in response to intradermally-injected agents, was measured in male New Zealand white rabbits as the local accumulation of i.v. injected 125I-labelled human serum albumin into skin sites. 3. Phoneutria nigriventer venom (10-30 micrograms/site) increased vascular permeability, which was inhibited by trasylol (10 micrograms/site) and the bradykinin B2 receptor antagonists D-Arg,[Hyp3,Thi5,8,D-Phe7]-BK (3 nmol/site) and Hoe 140 (0.3 nmol/site). In addition, the oedema induced by the venom was potentiated by the kinase II inhibitor, captopril (1 nmol/site). The lipoxygenase inhibitor, BWA4C (10 nmol/site) and the PAF antagonist, WEB 2086 (100 nmol/site) had no effect on the venom-induced increase in vascular permeability. 4. Incubation of rabbit plasma with Phoneutria nigriventer venom in vitro did not cause bradykinin formation. Further, the plasma kallikrein inhibitor, soybean trypsin inhibitor (10 micrograms/site), had no effect on the venom-induced increase in vascular permeability in rabbit skin. 5. These results indicate that the oedema produced by Phoneutria nigriventer venom is dependent on the activation of the tissue kallikrein-kinin system.

Presynaptic block of transmission in the insect cns by mono- and di-galactosyl analogues of vespulakinin 1, a wasp (Paravespula maculifrons) venom neurotoxin

1. The pharmacological properties of four synthetic analogues of the wasp neurotoxin, Vespulakinin 1, were studied using a cascade of mammalian smooth muscle preparations and the synaptic transmission from the cockroach cercal nerves to a giant interneuron. 2. All analogues have an extremely slow bradykinin-like effect on the smooth muscles. The carbohydrate-free and the two mono-glycosylated analogues are about equally active with bradykinin. 3. The double glycosylated derivative is about 5 times more potent than bradykinin. 4. All analogues have two different effects on synaptic transmission in the insect CNS--at first a direct and reversible block of excitatory nicotinic transmission with a concurrent activation of the inhibitory GABA-ergic system and, secondly, a delayed irreversible block of the transmission, comparable to the block described earlier for bradykinin and Thr6-bradykinin. 5. For the synaptic transmission in the insect CNS the double glycosylated kinin is about 5 times more potent than bradykinin.

Synthesis and biological activity of the mono- and di-galactosyl-vespulakinin 1 analogues

Syntheses are described of some mono- and di-glycosylated analogues of vespulakinin 1. The solid phase procedure, based on the Fmoc chemistry, was used to prepare (Gal alpha)Thr3-vespulakinin 1, (Gal beta)Thr3-vespulakinin 1 and the di-glycosylated analogue ((Gal alpha)Thr3, (Gal alpha)Thr4-vespulakinin 1. The beta-glycosylated derivative was also prepared by the continuous flow variant of the Fmoc polyamide method. The synthesized glycopeptides were purified and characterized by amino acid analysis, optical rotation, analytical HPLC, 1H- and 13C-NMR and FAB-MS. Preliminary pharmacological experiments showed that the carbohydrate-free vespulakinin 1 is less active than bradykinin (about 0.3 times on a molar basis) when tested by guinea pig rectum contraction, and the two monoglycosylated analogues are equiactive (about 0.9 times the bradykinin activity). The most active derivative, the (Gal alpha)Thr3, (Gal alpha)Thr4-vespulakinin 1 analogue, was about 2.5 times as active as bradykinin.