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Wang X, Luo H, Peng X, Chen J. Spider and scorpion knottins targeting voltage-gated sodium ion channels in pain signaling. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 227:116465. [PMID: 39102991 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 07/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
In sensory neurons that transmit pain signals, whether acute or chronic, voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are crucial for regulating excitability. NaV1.1, NaV1.3, NaV1.6, NaV1.7, NaV1.8, and NaV1.9 have been demonstrated and defined their functional roles in pain signaling based on their biophysical properties and distinct patterns of expression in each subtype of sensory neurons. Scorpions and spiders are traditional Chinese medicinal materials, belonging to the arachnid class. Most of the studied species of them have evolved venom peptides that exhibit a wide variety of knottins specifically targeting VGSCs with subtype selectivity and conformational specificity. This review provides an overview on the exquisite knottins from scorpion and spider venoms targeting pain-related NaV channels, describing the sequences and the structural features as well as molecular determinants that influence their selectivity on special subtype and at particular conformation, with an aim for the development of novel research tools on NaV channels and analgesics with minimal adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiting Wang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Huan Luo
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China
| | - Xiaozhen Peng
- School of Public Health & Laboratory Medicine, Hunan University of Medicine, Huaihua 418000, China.
| | - Jinjun Chen
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, Hunan 410128, China; Hunan Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Cell Mechanics and Function Analysis, Changsha 418000, China.
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2
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Zhang N, Shen H, Chen B, Hu H, Liu C, Chen Y, Cong W. The recent progress of peptide regulators for the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1164656. [PMID: 37396899 PMCID: PMC10311566 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1164656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Wnt signaling plays an important role in many biological processes such as stem cell self-renewal, cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. The β-catenin-dependent signaling pathway mainly regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. In the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, the Wnt family ligands transduce signals through LRP5/6 and Frizzled receptors to the Wnt/β-catenin signaling cascades. Wnt-targeted therapy has garnered extensive attention. The most commonly used approach in targeted therapy is small-molecule regulators. However, it is difficult for small-molecule regulators to make great progress due to their inherent defects. Therapeutic peptide regulators targeting the Wnt signaling pathway have become an alternative therapy, promising to fill the gaps in the clinical application of small-molecule regulators. In this review, we describe recent advances in peptide regulators for Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhang
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huaxing Shen
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Baobao Chen
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Honggang Hu
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chao Liu
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Medical Supplies Center of People's Liberation Army (PLA) General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Cong
- School of Medicine or Institute of Translational Medicine, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
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3
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Bioactive peptides from scorpion venoms: therapeutic scaffolds and pharmacological tools. Chin J Nat Med 2023; 21:19-35. [PMID: 36641229 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(23)60382-6] [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: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Evolution and natural selection have endowed animal venoms, including scorpion venoms, with a wide range of pharmacological properties. Consequently, scorpions, their venoms, and/or their body parts have been used since time immemorial in traditional medicines, especially in Africa and Asia. With respect to their pharmacological potential, bioactive peptides from scorpion venoms have become an important source of scientific research. With the rapid increase in the characterization of various components from scorpion venoms, a large number of peptides are identified with an aim of combating a myriad of emerging global health problems. Moreover, some scorpion venom-derived peptides have been established as potential scaffolds helpful for drug development. In this review, we summarize the promising scorpion venoms-derived peptides as drug candidates. Accordingly, we highlight the data and knowledge needed for continuous characterization and development of additional natural peptides from scorpion venoms, as potential drugs that can treat related diseases.
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Muller JAI, Chan LY, Toffoli-Kadri MC, Mortari MR, Craik DJ, Koehbach J. Antinociceptive peptides from venomous arthropods. TOXIN REV 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15569543.2022.2065510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A. I. Muller
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Inflammation, FACFAN/Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Lai Y. Chan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Monica C. Toffoli-Kadri
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Inflammation, FACFAN/Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Marcia R. Mortari
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, IB/University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - David J. Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Johannes Koehbach
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
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Diochot S. Pain-related toxins in scorpion and spider venoms: a face to face with ion channels. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210026. [PMID: 34925480 PMCID: PMC8667759 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is a common symptom induced during envenomation by spiders and scorpions.
Toxins isolated from their venom have become essential tools for studying the
functioning and physiopathological role of ion channels, as they modulate their
activity. In particular, toxins that induce pain relief effects can serve as a
molecular basis for the development of future analgesics in humans. This review
provides a summary of the different scorpion and spider toxins that directly
interact with pain-related ion channels, with inhibitory or stimulatory effects.
Some of these toxins were shown to affect pain modalities in different animal
models providing information on the role played by these channels in the pain
process. The close interaction of certain gating-modifier toxins with membrane
phospholipids close to ion channels is examined along with molecular approaches
to improve selectivity, affinity or bioavailability in vivo for
therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Diochot
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR 7275 et Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), 06560 Valbonne, France. Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique Université Côte d'Azur Valbonne France
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Scorpion Venom peptide, AGAP inhibits TRPV1 and potentiates the analgesic effect of lidocaine. Heliyon 2021; 7:e08560. [PMID: 35005265 PMCID: PMC8715296 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e08560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study was designed to test the hypothesis that BmK AGAP (AGAP) potentiates the analgesic effect of lidocaine. The chronic constrictive injury was performed on 72 rats to induce a rapid onset and long-lasting pain. The rats were randomly assigned to one of six groups; Group A (n = 12) received an intrathecal administration of saline, Group B (n = 12) received an intrathecal injection of lidocaine, Group C (n = 12) received an intrathecal administration of AGAP, Group D, E, and F (n = 12 each) received an intrathecal administration of lidocaine 0.005 mg/ml + AGAP 25, 50, 100 μg/kg respectively. The von Frey filaments were used to assess mechanical allodynia. Nav1.7 and TRPV1 currents were recorded by the whole-cell aspiration patch-clamp technique, and KCNQ2/3 currents were recorded by the whole-cell drilling patch-clamp technique. The whole-cell aspiration patch-clamp technique showed that AGAP inhibited TRPV1and KCNQ2/3 currents and increased the analgesic effect of lidocaine. AGAP may have a synergistic effect with lidocaine which demonstrates a potential therapeutic approach for optimizing post-operative analgesia.
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Venom peptides in cancer therapy: An updated review on cellular and molecular aspects. Pharmacol Res 2020; 164:105327. [PMID: 33276098 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Based on the high incidence and mortality rates of cancer, its therapy remains one of the most vital challenges in the field of medicine. Consequently, enhancing the efficacy of currently applied treatments and finding novel strategies are of great importance for cancer treatment. Venoms are important sources of a variety of bioactive compounds including salts, small molecules, macromolecules, proteins, and peptides that are defined as toxins. They can exhibit different pharmacological effects, and in recent years, their anti-tumor activities have gained significant attention. Several different compounds are responsible for the anti-tumor activity of venoms, and peptides are one of them. In the present review, we discuss the possible anti-tumor activities of venom peptides by highlighting molecular pathways and mechanisms through which these molecules can act effectively. Venom peptides can induce cell death in cancer cells and can substantially enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Also, the venom peptides can mitigate the migration of cancer cells via suppression of angiogenesis and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Notably, nanoparticles have been applied in enhancing the bioavailability of venom peptides and providing targeted delivery, thereby leading to their elevated anti-tumor activity and potential application for cancer therapy.
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Richard SA, Kampo S, Sackey M, Hechavarria ME, Buunaaim ADB. The Pivotal Potentials of Scorpion Buthus Martensii Karsch-Analgesic-Antitumor Peptide in Pain Management and Cancer. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2020; 2020:4234273. [PMID: 33178316 PMCID: PMC7647755 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4234273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch -analgesic-antitumor peptide (BmK AGAP) has been used to treat diseases like tetanus, tuberculosis, apoplexy, epilepsy, spasm, migraine headaches, rheumatic pain, and cancer in China. AGAP is a distinctive long-chain scorpion toxin with a molecular mass of 7142 Da and composed of 66 amino acids cross-linked by four disulfide bridges. Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are present in excitable membranes and partakes in essential roles in action potentials generation as compared to the significant function of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs). A total of nine genes (Nav1.1-Nav1.9) have been recognized to encode practical sodium channel isoforms. Nav1.3, Nav1.7, Nav1.8, and Nav1.9 have been recognized as potential targets for analgesics. Nav1.8 and Nav1.9 are associated with nociception initiated by inflammation signals in the neuronal pain pathway, while Nav1.8 is fundamental for neuropathic pain at low temperatures. AGAP has a sturdy inhibitory influence on both viscera and soma pain. AGAP potentiates the effects of MAPK inhibitors on neuropathic as well as inflammation-associated pain. AGAP downregulates the secretion of phosphorylated p38, phosphorylated JNK, and phosphorylated ERK 1/2 in vitro. AGAP has an analgesic activity which may be an effective therapeutic agent for pain management because of its downregulation of PTX3 via NF-κB and Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway. In cancers like colon cancer, breast cancer, lymphoma, and glioma, rAGAP was capable of blocking the proliferation. Thus, AGAP is a promising therapy for these tumors. Nevertheless, research is needed with other tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seidu A. Richard
- Department of Medicine, Princefield University, P.O. Box MA128, Ho, Ghana
| | - Sylvanus Kampo
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care, School of Medicine, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Marian Sackey
- Department of Pharmacy, Ho Teaching Hospital, P.O. Box MA-374, Ho, Ghana
| | | | - Alexis D. B. Buunaaim
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine and Health Science, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
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New opportunities and challenges of venom-based and bacteria-derived molecules for anticancer targeted therapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 80:356-369. [PMID: 32846203 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Due to advances in detection and treatment of cancer, especially the rise in the targeted therapy, the five-year relative survival rate of all cancers has increased significantly. However, according to the analysis of the survival rate of cancer patients in 2019, the survival rate of most cancers is still less than five years. Therefore, to combat complex cancer and further improve the 5-year survival rate of cancer patients, it is necessary to develop some new anticancer drugs. Because of the adaptive evolution of toxic species for millions of years, the venom sac is a "treasure bank", which has millions of biomolecules with high affinity and stability awaiting further development. Complete utilization of venom-based and bacteria-derived drugs in the market is still staggering because of incomplete understanding regarding their mode of action. In this review, we focused on the currently identified targets for anticancer effects based on venomous and bacterial biomolecules, such as ion channels, membrane non-receptor molecules, integrins, and other related target molecules. This review will serve as the key for exploring the molecular mechanisms behind the anticancer potential of venom-based and bacteria-derived drugs and will also lay the path for the development of anticancer targeted therapy.
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10
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Mikaelian AG, Traboulay E, Zhang XM, Yeritsyan E, Pedersen PL, Ko YH, Matalka KZ. Pleiotropic Anticancer Properties of Scorpion Venom Peptides: Rhopalurus princeps Venom as an Anticancer Agent. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2020; 14:881-893. [PMID: 32161447 PMCID: PMC7051175 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s231008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
To date, the success of conventional chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted biological therapies in cancer treatment is not satisfactory. The main reasons for such outcomes rely on low target selectivity, primarily in chemo- and radiotherapy, ineffectiveness to metastatic disease, drug resistance, and severe side effects. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors may offer better clinical promise, success is still limited. Since cancer is a complex systemic disease, the need for new therapeutic modalities that can target or block several steps of cancer cell characteristics, modulate or repolarize immune cells, and are less toxic to healthy tissues is essential. Of these promising therapeutic modalities are pleiotropic natural products in which scorpion venom (SV) is an excellent example. SV consists of complex bioactive peptides that are disulfide-rich of different peptides’ length, potent, stable, and exerts various multi-pharmacological actions. SV peptides also contain ion channel inhibitors. These ion channels are dysregulated and overexpressed in cancer cells, and play essential roles in cancer development and invasion, as well as depolarizing immune cells. Furthermore, SV has been found to induce cancer cell apoptosis, and inhibit cancer cells proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis. In the current review, we are presenting data that show the pleiotropic effect of SV against different types of human cancer as well as revealing one potential anticancer agent, Rhopalurus princeps venom. Furthermore, we are addressing what is needed to be done to translate these potential cancer therapeutics to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Peter L Pedersen
- Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine Laboratory, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Young Hee Ko
- Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine Laboratory, Baltimore, MD, USA
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11
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Ling C, Zhang Y, Li J, Chen W, Ling C. Clinical Use of Toxic Proteins and Peptides from Tian Hua Fen and Scorpion Venom. Curr Protein Pept Sci 2019; 20:285-295. [PMID: 29932034 DOI: 10.2174/1389203719666180622100641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2018] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been practiced in China for thousands of years. As a complementary and alternative treatment, herbal medicines that are frequently used in the TCM are the most accepted in the Western world. However, animal materials, which are equally important in the TCM practice, are not well-known in other countries. On the other hand, the Chinese doctors had documented the toxic profiles of hundreds of animals and plants thousand years ago. Furthermore, they saw the potential benefits of these materials and used their toxic properties to treat a wide variety of diseases, such as heavy pain and cancer. Since the 50s of the last century, efforts of the Chinese government and societies to modernize TCM have achieved tremendous scientific results in both laboratory and clinic. A number of toxic proteins have been isolated and their functions identified. Although most of the literature was written in Chinese, this review provide a summary, in English, regarding our knowledge of the clinical use of the toxic proteins isolated from a plant, Tian Hua Fen, and an animal, scorpion, both of which are famous toxic prescriptions in TCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Ling
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611, Florida, FL, United States
| | - Yuanhui Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Baoshan Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Jun Li
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Therapy, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32611, Florida, FL, United States.,Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Wenli Chen
- Department of Oncology, Baoshan Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine, Shanghai 201999, China
| | - Changquan Ling
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China.,E-institute of Internal Medicine of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai Municipal Education Commission, Shanghai 201203, China
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Doudou NR, Kampo S, Liu Y, Ahmmed B, Zeng D, Zheng M, Mohamadou A, Wen QP, Wang S. Monitoring the Early Antiproliferative Effect of the Analgesic-Antitumor Peptide, BmK AGAP on Breast Cancer Using Intravoxel Incoherent Motion With a Reduced Distribution of Four b-Values. Front Physiol 2019; 10:708. [PMID: 31293432 PMCID: PMC6598093 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The present study aimed to investigate the possibility of using intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to quantitatively assess the early therapeutic effect of the analgesic–antitumor peptide BmK AGAP on breast cancer and also evaluate the medical value of a reduced distribution of four b-values. Methods: IVIM diffusion MRI using 10 b-values and 4 b-values (0–1,000 s/mm2) was performed at five different time points on BALB/c mice bearing xenograft breast tumors treated with BmK AGAP. Variability in Dslow, Dfast, PF, and ADC derived from the set of 10 b-values and 4 b-values was assessed to evaluate the antitumor effect of BmK AGAP on breast tumor. Results: The data showed that PF values significantly decreased in rBmK AGAP-treated mice on day 12 (P = 0.044). PF displayed the greatest AUC but with a poor medical value (AUC = 0.65). The data showed no significant difference between IVIM measurements acquired from the two sets of b-values at different time points except in the PF on the day 3. The within-subject coefficients of variation were relatively higher in Dfast and PF. However, except for a case noticed on day 0 in PF measurements, the results indicated no statistically significant difference at various time points in the rBmK AGAP-treated or the untreated group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: IVIM showed poor medical value in the early evaluation of the antiproliferative effect of rBmK AGAP in breast cancer, suggesting sensitivity in PF. A reduced distribution of four b-values may provide remarkable measurements but with a potential loss of accuracy in the perfusion-related parameter PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natacha Raissa Doudou
- Department of Radiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Sylvanus Kampo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yajie Liu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Bulbul Ahmmed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Dewei Zeng
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Minting Zheng
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Aminou Mohamadou
- Department of Radiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qing-Ping Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shaowu Wang
- Department of Radiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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Zhao F, Wang JL, Ming HY, Zhang YN, Dun YQ, Zhang JH, Song YB. Insights into the binding mode and functional components of the analgesic-antitumour peptide from Buthus martensii Karsch to human voltage-gated sodium channel 1.7 based on dynamic simulation analysis. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2019; 38:1868-1879. [PMID: 31099313 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2019.1620126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels are transmembrane proteins composed of four homologous domains (DI-DIV) that play important roles in membrane excitability in neurons and muscles. Analgesic-antitumour peptide (AGAP) is a neurotoxin from the scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch, and has been shown to exert analgesic effect by binding on site 4 of human Nav1.7 (hNav1.7). Mechanistic details about this binding, however, remain unclear. To address this issue, we compared the binding modes of AGAP/AGAPW38G/AGAPW38F and the hNav1.7 voltage-sensing domain on DII (VSD2hNav1.7) using homology modeling, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation and steered molecular dynamics. Results revealed the key role of tryptophan at position 38 on the binding of AGAP to VSD2hNav1.7. Pivotal roles are played also by residues on the β-turn and negatively charged residues at the C-terminal. We further show that electrostatic interaction is the main contributor to the binding free energy of the complex. Agreement between our computational simulation findings and prior experimental data supports the accuracy of the described mechanism. Accordingly, these results can provide valuable information for designing potent toxin analgesics targeting hNav1.7 with high affinity.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhao
- School of Life Science and Bio-pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jin-Long Wang
- School of Life Science and Bio-pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hong-Yan Ming
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Weihui, China
| | - Ya-Nan Zhang
- School of Life Science and Bio-pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ying-Qiao Dun
- School of Life Science and Bio-pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jing-Hai Zhang
- School of Life Science and Bio-pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yong-Bo Song
- School of Life Science and Bio-pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
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Li Z, Hu P, Wu W, Wang Y. Peptides with therapeutic potential in the venom of the scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch. Peptides 2019; 115:43-50. [PMID: 30858089 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2019.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch (BmK) has generated significant interest due to the presence of biologically active peptides in its venom. In the past decade, dozens of different peptides from BmK have been identified. Most of the peptides are neurotoxins and are responsible for the toxicity of BmK venom. Other peptides, including neurotoxins and non-disulfide-bridged peptides, show potential anticancer, antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-epileptic therapeutic effects. These peptides are attractive candidates for drug development, and peptide derivatives have also been designed to enhance their therapeutic potential, such as ADWX-1 and Kn2-7. In this review, we provide an overview of the most promising peptides found in BmK venom and of modified peptide derivatives showing therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongjie Li
- Medical College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471003, China.
| | - Ping Hu
- Medical College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471003, China
| | - Wenlan Wu
- Medical College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471003, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Medical College, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471003, China
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Kampo S, Ahmmed B, Zhou T, Owusu L, Anabah TW, Doudou NR, Kuugbee ED, Cui Y, Lu Z, Yan Q, Wen QP. Scorpion Venom Analgesic Peptide, BmK AGAP Inhibits Stemness, and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition by Down-Regulating PTX3 in Breast Cancer. Front Oncol 2019; 9:21. [PMID: 30740360 PMCID: PMC6355678 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A scorpion peptide reported to exhibit both analgesic and antitumor activity in animal models may present as an alternative therapeutic agent for breast cancer. We aimed to investigate the effect of Buthus martensii Karsch antitumor-analgesic peptide (BmK AGAP) on breast cancer cell stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). We treated MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells with different concentrations of rBmK AGAP and observed that rBmK AGAP inhibited cancer cell stemness, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration, and invasion. Analysis by qPCR, ELISA, western blot, immunofluorescence staining, sphere formation, colony assay, transwell migration, and invasion assays demonstrated rBmK AGAP treatment decreased the expressions of Oct4, Sox2, N-cadherin, Snail, and increased the expression of E-cadherin. rBmK AGAP inhibited breast cancer cell stemness, EMT, migration, and invasion by down-regulating PTX3 through NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin signaling Pathway in vitro and in vivo. Xenograft tumor model confirmed inhibition of tumor growth, stem-like features, and EMT by rBmK AGAP. Thus, rBmK AGAP is a potential therapeutic agent against breast cancer and related pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvanus Kampo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, School of Medicine and Health Science, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Bulbul Ahmmed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Tingting Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Lawrence Owusu
- Department of Biotechnology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Thomas Winsum Anabah
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, School of Medicine and Health Science, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | | | - Eugene Dogkotenge Kuugbee
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine and Health Science, University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana
| | - Yong Cui
- School of Life Science and Bio-pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhili Lu
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qiu Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qing-Ping Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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Ruan JP, Mao QH, Lu WG, Cai XT, Chen J, Li Q, Fu Q, Yan HJ, Cao JL, Cao P. Inhibition of spinal MAPKs by scorpion venom peptide BmK AGAP produces a sensory-specific analgesic effect. Mol Pain 2018; 14:1744806918761238. [PMID: 29424271 PMCID: PMC5844526 DOI: 10.1177/1744806918761238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Several studies have shown that scorpion venom peptide BmK AGAP has an analgesic activity. Our previous study also demonstrated that intraplantar injection of BmK AGAP ameliorates formalin-induced spontaneous nociceptive behavior. However, the effect of intrathecal injection of BmK AGAP on nociceptive processing is poorly understood. Methods We investigated the effects of intrathecal injection of BmK AGAP on spinal nociceptive processing induced by chronic constrictive injury or formalin. Thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia were measured using radiant heat and the von Frey filaments test. Formalin-induced spontaneous nociceptive behavior was also investigated. C-Fos expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinase (p-MAPK) expression was monitored by Western blot assay. Results Intrathecal injection of BmK AGAP reduced chronic constrictive injury-induced neuropathic pain behavior and pain from formalin-induced inflammation, accompanied by decreased expression of spinal p-MAPKs and c-Fos protein. The results of combining low doses of different MAPK inhibitor (U0126, SP600125, or SB203580; 0.1 µg for each inhibitor) with a low dose of BmK AGAP (0.2 µg) suggested that BmK AGAP could potentiate the effects of MAPK inhibitors on inflammation-associated pain. Conclusion Our results demonstrate that intrathecal injection of BmK AGAP produces a sensory-specific analgesic effect via a p-MAPK-dependent mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Ping Ruan
- 1 Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, 66478 Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,2 375808 Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qing-Hong Mao
- 1 Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, 66478 Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,2 375808 Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wu-Guang Lu
- 1 Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, 66478 Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,2 375808 Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xue-Ting Cai
- 1 Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, 66478 Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,2 375808 Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiao Chen
- 1 Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, 66478 Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,2 375808 Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qing- Li
- 1 Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, 66478 Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,2 375808 Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qun- Fu
- 1 Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, 66478 Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,2 375808 Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huai-Jiang Yan
- 1 Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, 66478 Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,2 375808 Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun-Li Cao
- 3 Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Peng Cao
- 1 Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, 66478 Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,2 375808 Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Ma R, Mahadevappa R, Kwok HF. Venom-based peptide therapy: insights into anti-cancer mechanism. Oncotarget 2017; 8:100908-100930. [PMID: 29246030 PMCID: PMC5725072 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.21740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The 5-year relative survival rate of all types of cancer has increased significantly over the past three decades partly due to the targeted therapy. However, still there are many targeted therapy drugs could play a role only in a portion of cancer patients with specific molecular alternation. It is necessary to continue to develop new biological agents which could be used alone and/or in combination with current FDA approved drugs to treat complex cancer diseases. Venom-based drugs have been used for hundreds of years in human history. Nevertheless, the venom-origin of the anti-cancer drug do rarely appear in the pharmaceutical market; and this is due to the fact that the mechanism of action for a large number of the venom drug such as venom-based peptide is not clearly understood. In this review, we focus on discussing some identified venom-based peptides and their anti-cancer mechanisms including the blockade of cancer cell proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis (hallmarks of cancer) to fulfill the gap which is hindering their use in cancer therapy. Furthermore, it also highlights the importance of immunotherapy based on venom peptide. Overall, this review provides readers for further understanding the mechanism of venom peptide and elaborates on the need to explore peptide-based therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Ma
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macau SAR
| | - Ravikiran Mahadevappa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macau SAR
| | - Hang Fai Kwok
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macau SAR
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Meng X, Xu Y, Wang F, Zhao M, Hou X, Ma Y, Jin Y, Liu Y, Song Y, Zhang J. The roles of conserved aromatic residues (Tyr5 and Tyr42) in interaction of scorpion toxin BmK AGP-SYPU1 with human Na v 1.7. Int J Biol Macromol 2017; 99:105-111. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2017.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2016] [Revised: 12/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Han T, Ming H, Deng L, Zhu H, Liu Z, Zhang J, Song Y. A novel expression vector for the improved solubility of recombinant scorpion venom in Escherichia coli. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 482:120-125. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.09.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Cui Y, Li S, Chen Y, Hu S, Song Y, Wang H, Zhao Y, Zhang J. Investigation of the role of disulphide bond in modulating internal motions of BmK AGAP protein by molecular dynamics simulation. MOLECULAR SIMULATION 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/08927022.2015.1089994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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Analgesic-antitumor peptide inhibits the migration and invasion of HepG2 cells by an upregulated VGSC β1 subunit. Tumour Biol 2015; 37:3033-41. [DOI: 10.1007/s13277-015-4067-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
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In vitro refolding and functional analysis of polyhistidine-tagged Buthus martensii Karsch antitumor-analgesic peptide produced in Escherichia coli. Biotechnol Lett 2015; 37:2461-6. [PMID: 26303431 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-015-1936-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/13/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify an efficient in vitro refolding method to generate highly active His6-tagged scorpion toxin antitumor-analgesic peptide (AGAP) isolated from Escherichia coli inclusion bodies. RESULTS N- and C-Terminal His6-tagged recombinant (r) AGAP (NHis6-rAGAP and CHis6-rAGAP, respectively) were expressed in E. coli; the purification and refolding conditions were optimized. CHis6-rAGAP, but not NHis6-rAGAP, exhibited significant in vitro antihepatoma activity that was much greater than that of rAGAP produced using SUMO fusion technology (IC50, 0.4 ± 0.08 vs. 1.8 ± 0.3 μM). CHis6-rAGAP also showed significant inhibition of tumor growth in a mouse xenograft model of human hepatoma and inhibition of neuronal excitability, demonstrated by blockage of voltage-sensitive tetrodotoxin-resistant (TTX-R) sodium currents in acute isolated dorsal root ganglion neurons. CONCLUSIONS This refolding protocol optimized for C-terminal His6-tagged scorpion rAGAP is potentially applicable to similar long-chain and cysteine-rich toxins.
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Meng X, Xu Y, Zhao M, Wang F, Ma Y, Jin Y, Liu Y, Song Y, Zhang J. The Functional Property Changes of Muscular Nav1.4 and Cardiac Nav1.5 Induced by Scorpion Toxin BmK AGP-SYPU1 Mutants Y42F and Y5F. Biochemistry 2015; 54:2988-96. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.5b00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangxue Meng
- School of Life Sciences & Biopharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, 110016 Shenyang, PR China
- Benxi
Medicine Institute, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shiqiaozi, 177005 Benxi, PR China
| | - Yijia Xu
- School of Life Sciences & Biopharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, 110016 Shenyang, PR China
| | - Mingyi Zhao
- School of Life Sciences & Biopharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, 110016 Shenyang, PR China
| | - Fangyang Wang
- School of Life Sciences & Biopharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, 110016 Shenyang, PR China
| | - Yuanyuan Ma
- School of Life Sciences & Biopharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, 110016 Shenyang, PR China
| | - Yao Jin
- School of Life Sciences & Biopharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, 110016 Shenyang, PR China
| | - Yanfeng Liu
- School of Life Sciences & Biopharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, 110016 Shenyang, PR China
| | - Yongbo Song
- School of Life Sciences & Biopharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, 110016 Shenyang, PR China
| | - Jinghai Zhang
- School of Life Sciences & Biopharmaceutical Science, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, 110016 Shenyang, PR China
- School
of Medical Devices, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua
Road, 110016 Shenyang, PR China
- Benxi
Medicine Institute, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shiqiaozi, 177005 Benxi, PR China
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Liu X, Li C, Chen J, Du J, Zhang J, Li G, Jin X, Wu C. AGAP, a new recombinant neurotoxic polypeptide, targets the voltage-gated calcium channels in rat small diameter DRG neurons. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2014; 452:60-5. [PMID: 25148943 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2014.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/11/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
A previous study showed that antitumor-analgesic peptide (AGAP), a novel recombinant polypeptide, which had been expressed in Escherichia coli, exhibits analgesic and antitumor effects in mice. In the present study, we investigated the underlying analgesic mechanism of AGAP. The effect of AGAP on voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) was assessed in acutely isolated rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons using the whole-cell patch clamp technique. The results showed that AGAP potently inhibited VGCCs, especially high-voltage activated (HVA) calcium channels. AGAP inhibited HVA and T-type calcium currents in a dose-dependent manner, but had no significant effect on their dynamic functions in rat small-diameter DRG neurons. AGAP inhibited N- and L-type calcium currents at 78.2% and 57.3%, respectively. Thus, the present study demonstrates that AGAP affects calcium currents through the inhibition of N-, L- and T-type channels in DRG neurons, explaining the potential mechanisms of antinociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xifang Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China
| | - Chunli Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China.
| | - Jianzhao Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China
| | - Jingnan Du
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China
| | - Jinghai Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China
| | - Guixia Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China
| | - Xiaoquan Jin
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China
| | - Chunfu Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang, Liaoning 110016, PR China.
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Site-Directed Mutagenesis of BmK AGP-SYPU1: The Role of Two Conserved Tyr (Tyr5 and Tyr42) in Analgesic Activity. Protein J 2014; 33:157-64. [DOI: 10.1007/s10930-014-9547-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Mao Q, Ruan J, Cai X, Lu W, Ye J, Yang J, Yang Y, Sun X, Cao J, Cao P. Antinociceptive effects of analgesic-antitumor peptide (AGAP), a neurotoxin from the scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch, on formalin-induced inflammatory pain through a mitogen-activated protein kinases-dependent mechanism in mice. PLoS One 2013; 8:e78239. [PMID: 24244296 PMCID: PMC3828337 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0078239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/11/2013] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present study, we investigated the anti-nociceptive effect and the underlying mechanism of the analgesic-antitumor peptide (AGAP), a neurotoxin from the scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch. AGAP in doses of 0.2, 1 and 5 µg was injected intraplantarly (i.pl.) before formalin injection 10 min at the same site. The suppression by intraplantar injection of AGAP on formalin-induced spontaneous nociceptive behaviors was investigated. The results show that AGAP could dose-dependently inhibit formalin-induced two-phase spontaneous flinching response. To investigate the mechanism of action of treatment with AGAP in inflammatory pain, the expressions of peripheral and spinal phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinases (phospho-MAPKs) including p-p38, p-ERK and p-JNK were examined. We found that formalin increased the expressions of peripheral and spinal MAPKs, which were prevented by pre-intraplantar injection of AGAP in inflammation pain model in mice. AGAP could also decrease the expression of spinal Fos induced by formalin. Furthermore, combinations the lower doses of the inhibitors of MAPKs (U0126, SP600125, or SB203580 0.1 µg) with the lower dose of AGAP (0.2 µg), the results suggested that AGAP could potentiate the effects of the inhibitors of MAPKs on the inflammatory pain. The present results indicate that pre-intraplantar injection of AGAP prevents the inflammatory pain induced by formalin through a MAPKs-mediated mechanism in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghong Mao
- Jiangsu Branch of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiaping Ruan
- Jiangsu Branch of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: (JR); (PC)
| | - Xueting Cai
- Jiangsu Branch of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu Province Institute of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Wuguang Lu
- Jiangsu Branch of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu Province Institute of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Juan Ye
- Jiangsu Branch of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu Province Institute of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Yang
- Jiangsu Branch of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu Province Institute of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Jiangsu Branch of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu Province Institute of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyan Sun
- Jiangsu Branch of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu Province Institute of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Junli Cao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical College, Xuzhou, China
| | - Peng Cao
- Jiangsu Branch of China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Nanjing, China
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu Province Institute of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- * E-mail: (JR); (PC)
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Arginine Residues in the C-terminal and their Relationship with the Analgesic Activity of the Toxin from the Chinese Scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch (BmK AGP-SYPU1). Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2012; 168:247-55. [DOI: 10.1007/s12010-012-9768-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 06/04/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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28
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Wang Y, Hao Z, Shao J, Song Y, Li C, Li C, Zhao Y, Liu Y, Wei T, Wu C, Zhang J. The role of Ser54 in the antinociceptive activity of BmK9, a neurotoxin from the scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch. Toxicon 2011; 58:527-32. [PMID: 21906612 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2011.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2011] [Revised: 08/20/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Residue 54 has been shown to be important for bioactivity in several toxins. However, its role in the antinociceptive activity of toxins has not been evaluated yet. In this study, site-directed mutagenesis and mouse acetic acid writhing test were used to investigate the role of Ser54 in the antinociceptive activity of BmK9 neurotoxin from the Buthus martensii Karsch scorpion. Detailed mutagenesis analysis revealed that substitution of Ser54 by various polar amino acids produced no significant change in the antinociceptive activity, while all substitutions of nonpolar amino acid for Ser54 led to a significant loss of antinociceptive activity. Following the conformational analysis, it was suggested that Ser54 in BmK9 plays a functional role in the antinociceptive activity, the residue exerts its effect by means of a side-chain hydrogen bond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueqiu Wang
- School of Life Science and Bio-pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, PO Box 17, 103. Wenhua Road, Shenhe District, Shenyang, Liaoning Province 110016, PR China
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Zhang R, Cui Y, Zhang X, Yang Z, Zhao Y, Song Y, Wu C, Zhang J. Soluble expression, purification and the role of C-terminal glycine residues in scorpion toxin BmK AGP-SYPU2. BMB Rep 2011; 43:801-6. [PMID: 21189156 DOI: 10.5483/bmbrep.2010.43.12.801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The existence of glycine residues in long-chain scorpion toxins has been well documented. However, their role as analgesics has not been evaluated. To address this issue, we investigated the functional role of glycines in the C-terminal end of Chinese-scorpion toxin from Buthus martensii Karsch (BmK AGP-SYPU2) using site-directed mutagenesis and analgesic activity assays. Recombinant BmK AGP-SYPU2 and its mutants were efficiently expressed in E. coli and purified to homogeneity using immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography (IMAC) and cation exchange chromatography. The mouse-twisting test was used to detect the analgesic activity of BmK AGP-SYPU2 and its mutants. As a result, we identified glycines at the C-terminal end that, when altered, significantly affected analgesic activity. Also, Mut6566 was significantly decreased compared to BmK AGP-SYPU2. These data indicate that the glycines at the C-terminal end are important for the analgesic activity of BmK AGP-SYPU2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Zhang
- School of Life Science and Bio-pharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province 110016, P.R. China
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