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Mendes LC, Viana GMM, Nencioni ALA, Pimenta DC, Beraldo-Neto E. Scorpion Peptides and Ion Channels: An Insightful Review of Mechanisms and Drug Development. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:238. [PMID: 37104176 PMCID: PMC10145618 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15040238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Buthidae family of scorpions consists of arthropods with significant medical relevance, as their venom contains a diverse range of biomolecules, including neurotoxins that selectively target ion channels in cell membranes. These ion channels play a crucial role in regulating physiological processes, and any disturbance in their activity can result in channelopathies, which can lead to various diseases such as autoimmune, cardiovascular, immunological, neurological, and neoplastic conditions. Given the importance of ion channels, scorpion peptides represent a valuable resource for developing drugs with targeted specificity for these channels. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the structure and classification of ion channels, the action of scorpion toxins on these channels, and potential avenues for future research. Overall, this review highlights the significance of scorpion venom as a promising source for discovering novel drugs with therapeutic potential for treating channelopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lais Campelo Mendes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências—Toxinologia do Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
- Laboratório de Bioquímica do Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Emidio Beraldo-Neto
- Laboratório de Bioquímica do Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
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Cerni F, Oliveira I, Cordeiro F, Bordon K, Ferreira I, Monteiro W, Arantes E, Cunha T, Pucca M. The nociceptive response induced by different classes of Tityus serrulatus neurotoxins: The important role of Ts5 in venom-induced nociception. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011057. [PMID: 36716327 PMCID: PMC9886245 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Scorpion sting envenomations (SSE) are feared by the intense pain that they produce in victims. Pain from SSE is triggered mainly by the presence of neurotoxins in the scorpion venom that modulates voltage-gated ion channels. In Brazil, SSE is mostly caused by Tityus serrulatus, popularly known as yellow scorpion. Here, we evaluated experimental spontaneous nociception induced by T. serrulatus venom as well as its isolated neurotoxins Ts1, Ts5, Ts6, Ts8, and Ts19 frag II, evidencing different degrees of pain behavior in mice. In addition, we developed a mice-derived polyclonal antibody targeting Ts5 able to neutralize the effect of this neurotoxin, showing that Ts5 presents epitopes capable of activating the immune response, which decreased considerably the nociception produced by the whole venom. This is the pioneer study to explore nociception using different classes of T. serrulatus neurotoxins on nociception (α-NaTx, β-NaTx, α-KTx, and β-KTx), targeting potassium and sodium voltage-gated channels, besides demonstrating that Ts5 plays an important role in the scorpion sting induced-pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Cerni
- Health and Sciences Postgraduate Program, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, Roraima, Brazil
| | - Isadora Oliveira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francielle Cordeiro
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Karla Bordon
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabela Ferreira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wuelton Monteiro
- Department of Teaching and Research, Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado Tropical Medicine Foundation, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil,Department of Medicine and Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Amazonas State University, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | - Eliane Arantes
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thiago Cunha
- Center for Research in Inflammatory Diseases (CRID), Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Manuela Pucca
- Health and Sciences Postgraduate Program, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, Roraima, Brazil,Medical School, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, Roraima, Brazil,* E-mail:
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Borges A, Graham MR, Cândido DM, Pardal PPO. Amazonian scorpions and scorpionism: integrating toxinological, clinical, and phylogenetic data to combat a human health crisis in the world's most diverse rainfores. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210028. [PMID: 34887908 PMCID: PMC8629433 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Venom from Amazonian scorpions of the genus Tityus contains components capable of eliciting a distinct clinical, mostly neurological, syndrome. This contrasts with the mainly autonomic manifestations produced after envenomation by congeneric southern and northern South American species. Herein, we summarize Pan-Amazonian scorpionism by synthesizing available toxinological, clinical, and molecular data gathered from all affected areas in Amazonia, including Brazil, Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, and French Guiana. We searched multiple databases, as well as our own records, for reports of scorpion envenomations in Amazonia by confirmed Tityus spp., and compared the clinical manifestations. To help uncover clinical and venom relationships among problematic species, we explored phylogenetic relationships with a rate-calibrated analysis of mitochondrial COI data from available species. The possible existence of diversity gradients for venom toxic and immunogenic components despite the predicted strong phylogenetic association among species is underscored by discussed clinical and toxinological findings. A multicentric effort, involving all nations affected by this neglected disease, is urgently needed to offer alternatives for treating and understanding this pathology, including the preparation of neutralizing antibodies with a broad range of efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo Borges
- Center for the Development of Scientific Research (CEDIC), Asunción,
Paraguay
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Toxins and Receptors, Institute
of Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Central University of Venezuela,
Caracas, Venezuela
| | - Matthew R. Graham
- Department of Biology, Eastern Connecticut State University,
Willimantic, CT, United States
| | | | - Pedro P. O. Pardal
- Laboratory of Medical Entomology and Venomous Animals, Center of
Tropical Medicine, Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém, PA, Brazil
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Çelik E, Çağlar A, Çelik SF. Clinical Effects and Predictive Factors Affecting the Clinical Severity of Scorpion Envenomations in Western Turkey. J Trop Pediatr 2021; 67:6313145. [PMID: 34213542 DOI: 10.1093/tropej/fmab053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scorpion envenomation is a common medical emergency in many countries, including Turkey. Severe systemic symptoms occur more easily in children and mortality rates are higher. The aim of this study is to describe the clinical effects and predictive factors affecting the clinical severity of scorpion envenomations in Western Turkey. METHODS Two hundred one children (138 mild cases, 34 moderate, and 29 severe) with scorpion envenomation aged between 1 month and -17 years were included in the study. The patients' demographic and laboratory characteristics were compared among clinical severity subgroups. RESULTS The patients' median age was 7 (4-11) years. The median age of the severe group was significantly lower than that of the mild and moderate groups (p < 0.001). Seventeen patients (8.5%) developed myocarditis, while no pulmonary edema was observed in any case. Leukocyte, neutrophil and platelet (PLT) counts, and plateletcrit (PCT) and glucose levels increased significantly with the severity of envenomation (p < 0.001). PLT counts and PCT levels exhibited positive correlation with leukocyte and neutrophil counts (p < 0.001, r = 0.781, r = 0.638, r = 0.772, and r = 0.629, respectively). Supraventricular tachycardia developed in 1 (5.9%) patient, and dilated cardiomyopathy in another (5.9%). No mortality occurred in any case. CONCLUSION Increased PLT counts and PCT levels may be helpful in evaluating clinical severity in patients with scorpion sting envenomation. The possibility of myocarditis development in children should be remembered and cardiac enzymes should be checked, even if patients are asymptomatic and cardiac enzymes are normal on admission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Çelik
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Adnan Menderes University, Aydın 09010, Turkey
| | - Aykut Çağlar
- Department of Pediatric Emergency Care, Faculty of Medicine, Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
| | - Serkan Fazlı Çelik
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
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Interleukin-1 receptor-induced PGE 2 production controls acetylcholine-mediated cardiac dysfunction and mortality during scorpion envenomation. Nat Commun 2020; 11:5433. [PMID: 33116136 PMCID: PMC7595177 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19232-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Scorpion envenomation is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among accidents caused by venomous animals. Major clinical manifestations that precede death after scorpion envenomation include heart failure and pulmonary edema. Here, we demonstrate that cardiac dysfunction and fatal outcomes caused by lethal scorpion envenomation in mice are mediated by a neuro-immune interaction linking IL-1 receptor signaling, prostaglandin E2, and acetylcholine release. IL-1R deficiency, the treatment with a high dose of dexamethasone or blockage of parasympathetic signaling using atropine or vagotomy, abolished heart failure and mortality of envenomed mice. Therefore, we propose the use of dexamethasone administration very early after envenomation, even before antiserum, to inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators and acetylcholine release, and to reduce the risk of death. Cardiac dysfunction is a major complication that precedes death after scorpion envenomation. Here, authors show that heart failure and mortality are caused by excessive acetylcholine release, which requires IL-1R-dependent PGE2 production. Dexamethasone treatment effectively inhibits cardiac dysfunction and mortality.
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Amorim FG, Longhim HT, Cologna CT, Degueldre M, Pauw ED, Quinton L, Arantes EC. Proteome of fraction from Tityus serrulatus venom reveals new enzymes and toxins. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2019; 25:e148218. [PMID: 31131005 PMCID: PMC6483408 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-1482-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Tityus serrulatus venom (Ts venom) is a complex mixture of several compounds with biotechnological and therapeutical potentials, which highlights the importance of the identification and characterization of these components. Although a considerable number of studies have been dedicated to the characterization of this complex cocktail, there is still a limitation of knowledge concerning its venom composition. Most of Ts venom studies aim to isolate and characterize their neurotoxins, which are small, basic proteins and are eluted with high buffer concentrations on cation exchange chromatography. The first and largest fraction from carboxymethyl cellulose-52 (CMC-52) chromatography of Ts venom, named fraction I (Fr I), is a mixture of proteins of high and low molecular masses, which do not interact with the cation exchange resin, being therefore a probable source of components still unknown of this venom. Thus, the present study aimed to perform the proteome study of Fraction I from Ts venom, by high resolution mass spectrometry, and its biochemical characterization, by the determination of several enzymatic activities. Methods Fraction I was obtained by a cation exchange chromatography using 50 mg of crude venom. This fraction was subjected to a biochemical characterization, including determination of L-amino acid oxidase, phospholipase, hyaluronidase, proteases activities and inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity. Fraction I was submitted to reduction, alkylation and digestion processes, and the tryptic digested peptides obtained were analyzed in a Q-Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometer. Data analysis was performed by PEAKS 8.5 software against NCBI database. Results Fraction I exhibits proteolytic activity and it was able to inhibit ACE activity. Its proteome analysis identified 8 different classes of venom components, among them: neurotoxins (48%), metalloproteinases (21%), hypotensive peptides (11%), cysteine-rich venom protein (9%), antimicrobial peptides (AMP), phospholipases and other enzymes (chymotrypsin and lysozymes) (3%) and phosphodiesterases (2%). Conclusions The combination of a proteomic and biochemical characterization strategies leads us to identify new components in the T. serrulatus scorpion venom. The proteome of venom´s fraction can provide valuable direction in the obtainment of components in their native forms in order to perform a preliminary characterization and, consequently, to promote advances in biological discoveries in toxinology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Gobbi Amorim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café s/n, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-903, Brazil.,University of Vila Velha, Vila Velha, ES, Brazil
| | - Heloisa Tavoni Longhim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café s/n, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-903, Brazil
| | - Camila Takeno Cologna
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café s/n, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-903, Brazil.,Laboratory of mass spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, Liège Université, Liège, Belgium
| | - Michel Degueldre
- Laboratory of mass spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, Liège Université, Liège, Belgium
| | - Edwin De Pauw
- Laboratory of mass spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, Liège Université, Liège, Belgium
| | - Loïc Quinton
- Laboratory of mass spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, Liège Université, Liège, Belgium
| | - Eliane Candiani Arantes
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café s/n, Monte Alegre, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-903, Brazil
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Nencioni ALA, Neto EB, de Freitas LA, Dorce VAC. Effects of Brazilian scorpion venoms on the central nervous system. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2018; 24:3. [PMID: 29410679 PMCID: PMC5781280 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-018-0139-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In Brazil, the scorpion species responsible for most severe incidents belong to the Tityus genus and, among this group, T. serrulatus, T. bahiensis, T. stigmurus and T. obscurus are the most dangerous ones. Other species such as T. metuendus, T. silvestres, T. brazilae, T. confluens, T. costatus, T. fasciolatus and T. neglectus are also found in the country, but the incidence and severity of accidents caused by them are lower. The main effects caused by scorpion venoms - such as myocardial damage, cardiac arrhythmias, pulmonary edema and shock - are mainly due to the release of mediators from the autonomic nervous system. On the other hand, some evidence show the participation of the central nervous system and inflammatory response in the process. The participation of the central nervous system in envenoming has always been questioned. Some authors claim that the central effects would be a consequence of peripheral stimulation and would be the result, not the cause, of the envenoming process. Because, they say, at least in adult individuals, the venom would be unable to cross the blood-brain barrier. In contrast, there is some evidence showing the direct participation of the central nervous system in the envenoming process. This review summarizes the major findings on the effects of Brazilian scorpion venoms on the central nervous system, both clinically and experimentally. Most of the studies have been performed with T. serrulatus and T. bahiensis. Little information is available regarding the other Brazilian Tityus species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emidio Beraldo Neto
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Butantan Institute, Av. Dr. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, SP 05503-900 Brazil
- Graduation Program in Sciences – Toxinology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Lucas Alves de Freitas
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Butantan Institute, Av. Dr. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, SP 05503-900 Brazil
- Graduation Program in Sciences – Toxinology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP Brazil
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8
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Galvani NC, Vilela TC, Domingos AC, Fagundes MÍ, Bosa LM, Della Vechia IC, Scussel R, Pereira M, Steiner BT, Damiani AP, Chávez-Olórtegui C, De Andrade VM, de Ávila RAM. Genotoxicity evaluation induced by Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom in mice. Toxicon 2017; 140:132-138. [PMID: 29107080 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 09/09/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Tityus serrulatus is the scorpion associated with the most severe cases of scorpion envenoming in Brazil. However, there are no studies reporting the genotoxic effects of this venom in natural or experimental envenomations. It is well known that DNA-damage responses are providing opportunities for improving disease detection and management. In this study was evaluating the genotoxicity of the T. serrulatus venom in different organs (hippocampus, cortex, striatum, blood, heart, lung, liver and kidney) and periods in mice experimentally envenomed. ELISA and the Comet assays were used to quantification of venoms antigens and DNA damage, respectively. Forty-eight Swiss mice were divided into five groups and 0.5 DL50 of T. serrulatus venom (0.90 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally in each animal. Euthanasia was performed by cervical dislocation in the period of 0h (control group) 1h, 2h, 6h and 12h, where it the tissues were removed. The results showed high DNA damage in all structures analyzed, suggesting that T. serrulatus venom presented genotoxic activity or some secondary effect generated by venom injection. In the ELISA test, toxic circulant antigens were verified in practically all organs at the time intervals analyzed. Therefore, the distribution of the venom changes from organ to organ. We conclude that scorpion envenoming affects DNA in all organs analyzed even when the venom concentration is lower or no detectable, DNA damage persists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia Coral Galvani
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Thais Ceresér Vilela
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, Brazil.
| | - Angelino Chitoma Domingos
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Mírian Ívens Fagundes
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Luiza Macarini Bosa
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, Brazil
| | | | - Rahisa Scussel
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Márcia Pereira
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Bethina Trevisol Steiner
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Adriani Paganini Damiani
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, Brazil
| | - Carlos Chávez-Olórtegui
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica de Proteínas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Moraes De Andrade
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, Brazil
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Threat level influences the use of venom in a scorpion species, Tityus stigmurus (Scorpiones, Buthidae). Acta Ethol 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10211-017-0274-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Santussi WM, Bordon KCF, Rodrigues Alves APN, Cologna CT, Said S, Arantes EC. Antifungal Activity against Filamentous Fungi of Ts1, a Multifunctional Toxin from Tityus serrulatus Scorpion Venom. Front Microbiol 2017. [PMID: 28634472 PMCID: PMC5459920 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are ubiquitous and multipotent components of the innate immune defense arsenal used by both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms. The search for new AMPs has increased in recent years, due to the growing development of microbial resistance to therapeutical drugs. In this work, we evaluate the effects of Tityus serrulatus venom (Tsv), its fractions and its major toxin Ts1, a beta-neurotoxin, on fungi growth. The fractions were obtained by ion-exchange chromatography of Tsv. The growth inhibition of 11 pathogenic and non-pathogenic filamentous fungi (Aspergillus fumigatus, A. nidulans, A. niger, A. terreus, Neurospora crassa, Penicillium corylophilum, P. ochrochloron, P. verrucosum, P. viridicatum, P. waksmanii, and Talaromyces flavus) was evaluated by quantitative microplate reader assay. Tsv (100 and 500 μg/well, which correspond to 1 and 5 mg/mL, respectively, of total soluble protein) was active in inhibiting growth of A. nidulans, A. terreus, P. corylophilum, and P. verrucosum, especially in the higher concentration used and at the first 30 h. After this period, fungi might have used Tsv components as alternative sources of nutrients, and therefore, increased their growth tax. Only fractions IX, X, XI, XIIA, XIIB (3 and 7.5 μg/well, which correspond to 30 and 75 μg/mL, respectively, of total soluble protein) and Ts1 (1.5, 3, and 6 μg/well, which correspond to 2.18, 4.36, and 8.72 μM, respectively) showed antifungal activity. Ts1 showed to be a non-morphogenic toxin with dose-dependent activity against A. nidulans, inhibiting 100% of fungal growth from 3 μg/well (4.36 μM). The inhibitory effect of Ts1 against A. nidulans growth was accompanied by fungistatic effects and was not amended by 1 mM CaCl2 or tetrodotoxin (46.98 and 93.96 μM). The structural differences between Ts1 and drosomycin, a potent cysteine-rich antifungal peptide, are discussed here. Our results highlight the antifungal potential of the first cysteine-containing scorpion toxin. Since Ts1 is a multifunctional toxin, we suggest that it could be used as a template in the design of engineered scorpion AMPs and in the search for new mechanisms of action of antifungal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Welligton M Santussi
- Laboratory of Animal Toxins, Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Karla C F Bordon
- Laboratory of Animal Toxins, Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Ana P N Rodrigues Alves
- Laboratory of Animal Toxins, Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Camila T Cologna
- Laboratory of Animal Toxins, Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Suraia Said
- Laboratory of Industrial Enzymology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Eliane C Arantes
- Laboratory of Animal Toxins, Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São PauloRibeirão Preto, Brazil
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11
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Insights into the Hypertensive Effects of Tityus serrulatus Scorpion Venom: Purification of an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme-Like Peptidase. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:toxins8120348. [PMID: 27886129 PMCID: PMC5198543 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8120348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Revised: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of cases of envenomation by scorpions has grown significantly in Brazil since 2007, with the most severe cases being caused by the Tityus serrulatus scorpion. Although envenomed patients mostly suffer neurotoxic manifestations, other symptoms, such as hypertension, cannot be exclusively attributed to neurotoxins. Omics analyses have detected plentiful amounts of metalloproteases in T. serrulatus venom. However, the roles played by these enzymes in envenomation are still unclear. Endeavoring to investigate the functions of scorpion venom proteases, we describe here for the first time an Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme-like peptidase (ACE-like) purified from T. serrulatus venom. The crude venom cleaved natural and fluorescent substrates and these activities were inhibited by captopril. Regarding the serum neutralization, the scorpion antivenom was more effective at blocking the ACE-like activity than arachnid antivenom, although neither completely inhibited the venom cleavage action, even at higher doses. ACE-like was purified from the venom after three chromatographic steps and its identity was confirmed by mass spectrometric and transcriptomic analyses. Bioinformatics analysis showed homology between the ACE-like transcript sequences from Tityus spp. and human testis ACE. These findings advance our understanding of T. serrulatus venom components and may improve treatment of envenomation victims, as ACE-like may contribute to envenomation symptoms, especially the resulting hypertension.
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SILVA NATHALIAA, ALBUQUERQUE CLEIDEM, MARINHO ALINED, JORGE ROBERTAJ, SILVA NETO ANTONIOG, MONTEIRO HELENAS, SILVA TÚLIOD, SILVA MÁRCIAV, CORREIA MARIATEREZAS, PEREIRA TICIANAP, MARTINS ALICEM, MENEZES DALGIMARB, XIMENES RAFAELM, MARTINS RENÉD. Effects of Tityus stigmurus (Thorell 1876) (Scorpiones: Buthidae) venom in isolated perfused rat kidneys. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 88 Suppl 1:665-75. [DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765201620150253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Scorpions belonging to the Tityus genus are of medical interest in Brazil. Among them, Tityus stigmurus is the main scorpion responsible for stings in the Northeast region. After a sting, the scorpion venom distributes rapidly to the organs, reaching the kidneys quickly. However, there are few studies concerning the renal pathophysiology of scorpion poisoning. In this study, we evaluated the effects of T. stigmurus venom (TsV) on renal parameters in isolated rat kidneys. Wistar rats (n = 6), weighing 250-300 g, were perfused with Krebs-Henseleit solution containing 6 g/100 mL bovine serum albumin. TsV at 0.3 and 1.0 μg/mL was tested, and the effects on perfusion pressure (PP), renal vascular resistance (RVR), urinary flow (UF), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and electrolyte excretion were analyzed. Effects were observed only at TsV concentration of 1.0 μg/mL, which increased PP (controlPP40' = 92.7 ± 1.95; TsVPP40' = 182.0 ± 4.70* mmHg, *p < 0.05), RVR (controlRVR40' = 3.28 ± 0.23 mmHg; TstRVR40' = 6.76 ± 0.45* mmHg, *p < 0.05), UF (controlUF50' = 0.16 ± 0.04; TstUF50' = 0.60 ± 0.10* mL/g/min,*p < 0.05), GFR and electrolyte excretion, with histological changes that indicate renal tubular injury. In conclusion, T. stigmurus venom induces a transient increase in PP with tubular injury, both of which lead to an augmented electrolyte excretion.
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Antagonism of Nav channels and α1-adrenergic receptors contributes to vascular smooth muscle effects of ranolazine. Sci Rep 2015; 5:17969. [PMID: 26655634 PMCID: PMC4674695 DOI: 10.1038/srep17969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Ranolazine is a recently developed drug used for the treatment of patients with chronic stable angina. It is a selective inhibitor of the persistent cardiac Na+ current (INa), and is known to reduce the Na+-dependent Ca2+ overload that occurs in cardiomyocytes during ischemia. Vascular effects of ranolazine, such as vasorelaxation,have been reported and may involve multiple pathways. As voltage-gated Na+ channels (Nav) present in arteries play a role in contraction, we hypothesized that ranolazine could target these channels. We studied the effects of ranolazine in vitro on cultured aortic smooth muscle cells (SMC) and ex vivo on rat aortas in conditions known to specifically activate or promote INa. We observed that in the presence of the Nav channel agonist veratridine, ranolazine inhibited INa and intracellular Ca2+ calcium increase in SMC, and arterial vasoconstriction. In arterial SMC, ranolazine inhibited the activity of tetrodotoxin-sensitive voltage-gated Nav channels and thus antagonized contraction promoted by low KCl depolarization. Furthermore, the vasorelaxant effects of ranolazine, also observed in human arteries and independent of the endothelium, involved antagonization of the α1-adrenergic receptor. Combined α1-adrenergic antagonization and inhibition of SMCs Nav channels could be involved in the vascular effects of ranolazine.
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Abstract
Tityus serrulatus (Ts) is the main scorpion species of medical importance in Brazil. Ts venom is composed of several compounds such as mucus, inorganic salts, lipids, amines, nucleotides, enzymes, kallikrein inhibitor, natriuretic peptide, proteins with high molecular mass, peptides, free amino acids and neurotoxins. Neurotoxins are considered the most responsible for the envenoming syndrome due to their pharmacological action on ion channels such as voltage-gated sodium (Nav) and potassium (Kv) channels. The major goal of this review is to present important advances in Ts envenoming research, correlating both the crude Ts venom and isolated toxins with alterations observed in all human systems. The most remarkable event lies in the Ts induced massive releasing of neurotransmitters influencing, directly or indirectly, the entire body. Ts venom proved to extremely affect nervous and muscular systems, to modulate the immune system, to induce cardiac disorders, to cause pulmonary edema, to decrease urinary flow and to alter endocrine, exocrine, reproductive, integumentary, skeletal and digestive functions. Therefore, Ts venom possesses toxins affecting all anatomic systems, making it a lethal cocktail. However, its low lethality may be due to the low venom mass injected, to the different venom compositions, the body characteristics and health conditions of the victim and the local of Ts sting. Furthermore, we also described the different treatments employed during envenoming cases. In particular, throughout the review, an effort will be made to provide information from an extensive documented studies concerning Ts venom in vitro, in animals and in humans (a total of 151 references).
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Pucca MB, Peigneur S, Cologna CT, Cerni FA, Zoccal KF, Bordon KDCF, Faccioli LH, Tytgat J, Arantes EC. Electrophysiological characterization of the first Tityus serrulatus alpha-like toxin, Ts5: Evidence of a pro-inflammatory toxin on macrophages. Biochimie 2015; 115:8-16. [PMID: 25906692 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2015.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Tityus serrulatus (Ts) venom is composed of mainly neurotoxins specific for voltage-gated K(+) and Na(+) channels, which are expressed in many cells such as macrophages. Macrophages are the first line of defense invasion and they participate in the inflammatory response of Ts envenoming. However, little is known about the effect of Ts toxins on macrophage activation. This study investigated the effect of Ts5 toxin on different sodium channels as well as its role on the macrophage immunomodulation. The electrophysiological assays showed that Ts5 inhibits the rapid inactivation of the mammalian sodium channels Nav1.2, Nav1.3, Nav1.4, Nav1.5, Nav1.6 and Nav1.7. Interestingly, Ts5 also inhibits the inactivation of the insect Drosophila melanogaster sodium channel (DmNav1), and it is therefore classified as the first Ts α-like toxin. The immunological experiments on macrophages reveal that Ts5 is a pro-inflammatory toxin inducing the cytokine production of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6. On the basis of recent literature, our study also stresses a possible mechanism responsible for venom-associated molecular patterns (VAMPs) internalization and macrophage activation and moreover we suggest two main pathways of VAMPs signaling: direct and indirect. This work provides useful insights for a better understanding of the involvement of VAMPs in macrophage modulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela B Pucca
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Steve Peigneur
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Camila T Cologna
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe A Cerni
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Karina F Zoccal
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Karla de C F Bordon
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucia H Faccioli
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eliane C Arantes
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Mendes TM, Guimarães-Okamoto PTC, Machado-de-Avila RA, Oliveira D, Melo MM, Lobato ZI, Kalapothakis E, Chávez-Olórtegui C. General characterization of Tityus fasciolatus scorpion venom. Molecular identification of toxins and localization of linear B-cell epitopes. Toxicon 2015; 99:109-17. [PMID: 25817000 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Revised: 03/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This communication describes the general characteristics of the venom from the Brazilian scorpion Tityus fasciolatus, which is an endemic species found in the central Brazil (States of Goiás and Minas Gerais), being responsible for sting accidents in this area. The soluble venom obtained from this scorpion is toxic to mice being the LD50 is 2.984 mg/kg (subcutaneally). SDS-PAGE of the soluble venom resulted in 10 fractions ranged in size from 6 to 10-80 kDa. Sheep were employed for anti-T. fasciolatus venom serum production. Western blotting analysis showed that most of these venom proteins are immunogenic. T. fasciolatus anti-venom revealed consistent cross-reactivity with venom antigens from Tityus serrulatus. Using known primers for T. serrulatus toxins, we have identified three toxins sequences from T. fasciolatus venom. Linear epitopes of these toxins were localized and fifty-five overlapping pentadecapeptides covering complete amino acid sequence of the three toxins were synthesized in cellulose membrane (spot-synthesis technique). The epitopes were located on the 3D structures and some important residues for structure/function were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M Mendes
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, CP: 486, CEP: 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - P T C Guimarães-Okamoto
- Unesp-Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia de Botucatu, Distrito de Rubião Júnior s/n, CEP: 18618-970 Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - R A Machado-de-Avila
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, CP: 486, CEP: 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - D Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, CP: 486, CEP: 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M M Melo
- Escola de Veterinária - Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, CP: 567, CEP: 30123-970 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Z I Lobato
- Escola de Veterinária - Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, CP: 567, CEP: 30123-970 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - E Kalapothakis
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, CP: 486, CEP: 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - C Chávez-Olórtegui
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, CP: 486, CEP: 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Coelho V, Cremonez C, Anjolette F, Aguiar J, Varanda W, Arantes E. Functional and structural study comparing the C-terminal amidated β-neurotoxin Ts1 with its isoform Ts1-G isolated from Tityus serrulatus venom. Toxicon 2014; 83:15-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2014.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2013] [Revised: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/12/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Zoccal KF, Bitencourt CDS, Paula-Silva FWG, Sorgi CA, de Castro Figueiredo Bordon K, Arantes EC, Faccioli LH. TLR2, TLR4 and CD14 recognize venom-associated molecular patterns from Tityus serrulatus to induce macrophage-derived inflammatory mediators. PLoS One 2014; 9:e88174. [PMID: 24516606 PMCID: PMC3917877 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0088174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2013] [Accepted: 01/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpion sting-induced human envenomation provokes an intense inflammatory reaction. However, the mechanisms behind the recognition of scorpion venom and the induction of mediator release in mammalian cells are unknown. We demonstrated that TLR2, TLR4 and CD14 receptors sense Tityus serrulatus venom (TsV) and its major component, toxin 1 (Ts1), to mediate cytokine and lipid mediator production. Additionally, we demonstrated that TsV induces TLR2- and TLR4/MyD88-dependent NF-κB activation and TLR4-dependent and TLR2/MyD88-independent c-Jun activation. Similar to TsV, Ts1 induces MyD88-dependent NF-κB phosphorylation via TLR2 and TLR4 receptors, while c-Jun activation is dependent on neither TLR2 nor TLR4/MyD88. Therefore, we propose the term venom-associated molecular pattern (VAMP) to refer to molecules that are introduced into the host by stings and are recognized by PRRs, resulting in inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Furlani Zoccal
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Claudia da Silva Bitencourt
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francisco Wanderley Garcia Paula-Silva
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos Artério Sorgi
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Karla de Castro Figueiredo Bordon
- Departamento de Física e Química, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eliane Candiani Arantes
- Departamento de Física e Química, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lúcia Helena Faccioli
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Kale RS, Bahekar SE, Nagpure SR, Salwe KJ. Anti-scorpion venom activity of Andrographis paniculata: A combined and comparative study with anti-scorpion serum in mice. Anc Sci Life 2014; 32:156-60. [PMID: 24501444 PMCID: PMC3902536 DOI: 10.4103/0257-7941.122999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objective of this study is to evaluate the anti-scorpion venom (ASV) property of Andrographis paniculata in comparison with anti-redscorpion venom serum and this study aimed to determine its combined effect with anti-redscorpion venom serum. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ethanolic extract of the plant AP was obtained using soxhlet apparatus. Swiss albino mice weighing 20-30g were used. Lyophilized venom sample of Mesobuthus tamulus and Lyophilized monovalent enzyme refined immunoglobulin anti-scorpion venom serum (ASV) was used. Using lethal dose of scorpion venom (25.12μg/g), the venom neutralizing ability of plant extract (1 g/kg) and ASV individually as well as in combination was studied using in vivo and in vitro methods. Mean survival time, protection fold and percentage survival of animals over the period of 24 h were the parameters used. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS Results were analyzed using Student's t-test. RESULTS Ethanolic extract of AP (1 g/kg) showed some protective effect against scorpion venom. ASV was found more effective than plant extract. But, when plant extract and ASV were used in combination, potency of ASV was found to be increased both in vivo and in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Present study demonstrates that, both plant extract and ASV have their own scorpion venom neutralising ability in vivo and in vitro, but their combination is most effective in venom neutralizing ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjana S Kale
- Department of Pharmacology, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sewagram, Wardha, Maharshtra, India
| | - Satish E Bahekar
- Department of Pharmacology, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sewagram, Wardha, Maharshtra, India
| | - Shailesh R Nagpure
- Department of Pharmacology, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sewagram, Wardha, Maharshtra, India
| | - Kartik J Salwe
- Department of Pharmacology, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sewagram, Wardha, Maharshtra, India
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Oliveira FN, Mortari MR, Carneiro FP, Guerrero-Vargas JA, Santos DM, Pimenta AM, Schwartz EF. Another record of significant regional variation in toxicity of Tityus serrulatus venom in Brazil: A step towards understanding the possible role of sodium channel modulators. Toxicon 2013; 73:33-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Revised: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Pucca MB, Cerni FA, Peigneur S, Arantes EC, Tytgat J, Barbosa JE. Serrumab: a novel human single chain-fragment antibody with multiple scorpion toxin-neutralizing capacities. J Immunotoxicol 2013; 11:133-40. [PMID: 24001307 DOI: 10.3109/1547691x.2013.809175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In Brazil, scorpion envenomation is an important public health problem. The yellow scorpion, Tityus serrulatus (Ts), is considered the most dangerous species in the country, being responsible for the most severe clinical cases of envenomation. Currently, the administration of serum produced in horses is recognized and used as a treatment for accidents with scorpions. However, horse herds' maintenance is costly and the antibodies are heterologous, which can cause anaphylaxis and Serum Sickness. In the present work, a human monoclonal fragment antibody, Serrumab, has been analysed. Toxin neutralizing effects of Serrumab were evaluated using a two-electrode voltage-clamp technique. The results show that Serrumab presented a high neutralizing effect against Ts β-toxins (Ts1, 43.2% and Ts2, 68.8%) and none or low neutralizing effect against α-toxins (Ts3, 0% and Ts5, 10%). Additional experiments demonstrated that Serrumab was also able to neutralize the action of toxins from other scorpion genus (Css II, 45.96% and Lqh III, 100%/β- and α-toxins, respectively). This work indicated that Serrumab is able to neutralize many toxins in Ts venom, and could being considered as a neutralizing antibody for formulating a human anti-scorpion serum in Brazil. Additionally, this work demonstrated that Serrumab could neutralize different toxins from distinct scorpion genus. All these results reinforce the idea that Serrumab is a scFv antibody with multiple neutralizing capacities and a promising candidate for inclusion in scorpion anti-venoms against different genera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Berto Pucca
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine , Ribeirão Preto, SP , Brazil
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Ettinger K, Cohen G, Momic T, Lazarovici P. The effects of a chactoid scorpion venom and its purified toxins on rat blood pressure and mast cells histamine release. Toxins (Basel) 2013; 5:1332-42. [PMID: 23899970 PMCID: PMC3760037 DOI: 10.3390/toxins5081332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Revised: 06/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The effect of the venom of the Chactoid family of scorpions on blood pressure was scantly investigated and was addressed in the present study using the venom of the Israeli scorpion, Scorpio maurus palmatus. Blood pressure in rats was monitored via cannulated femoral artery, while venom and toxins were introduced into femoral vein. Venom injection elicited a biphasic effect, expressed first by a fast and transient hypotensive response, which lasted up to 10 min, followed by a hypertensive response, which lasted up to one hour. It was found that these effects resulted from different venom components. Phospholipase A2 produced the hypotensive effect, while a non-enzymatic neurotoxic polypeptide fraction produced the hypertensive effect. Surprisingly, the main neurotoxic polypeptide to mice had no effect on blood pressure. In vitro experiments indicated that the hypertensive factors caused histamine release from the peritoneal mast cells, but this effect is assumed to be not relevant to their in vivo effect. In spite of the cytotoxic activity of phospholipase A2, it did not release histamine. These findings suggest that the effects of venom and isolated fractions on blood pressure parameters are mediated by different mechanisms, which deserve further pharmacological investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Philip Lazarovici
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +972-2-6758729; Fax: +972-2-6757490
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Abstract
Scorpion stings are common in many tropical countries. Although most scorpion stings cause only localized pain without life-threatening envenoming, about one third of stings cause systemic envenoming which can result in death. Children are particularly sensitive to scorpion envenoming. The severity of scorpion stings is related to the presence of neurotoxins in the venom that cause a sudden release of neurotransmitters from the autonomic nervous system, predominantly sympathetic. There is also a strong inflammatory response that worsens symptoms, including those of a respiratory nature. Several vital functions may be directly affected, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, and neuromuscular systems. Hypertension is constant at the beginning of systemic envenoming and sometimes has a severe cardiac and respiratory impact. Although controversial, immunotherapy is the only etiological treatment. Administered early, it prevents many complications and improves the outcome. New antivenoms are highly purified immunoglobulin fragments, the efficacy and safety of which are excellent. As a consequence, adverse reactions to antivenoms are now very rare and usually mild, which should limit any reluctance regarding their routine use. Symptomatic treatment is still necessary to support immunotherapy, especially in cases of delayed arrival at hospital. A combination of both approaches should be considered, based on local resources and constraints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Philippe Chippaux
- UMR 216 (Institute of Research for Development and University Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité), Cotonou, Bénin, France.
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Brahmane RI, Pathak SS, Wanmali VV, Salwe KJ, Premendran SJ, Shinde BB. Partial in vitro and in vivo red scorpion venom neutralization activity of Andrographis paniculata. Pharmacognosy Res 2011; 3:44-8. [PMID: 21731395 PMCID: PMC3119271 DOI: 10.4103/0974-8490.79115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2010] [Revised: 08/26/2010] [Accepted: 04/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Red scorpion (Mesobuthus tamulus) is the most lethal among all poisonous species of scorpions. Envenoming by Mesobuthus tamulus is quite common along the western coast of India, without any established therapy. Andrographis paniculata is one of the plants that has long been used in traditional herbal medicine for the treatment of poisoning by animal bites. Hence, the study was planned to evaluate the ethanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata for the treatment of Mesobuthus tamulus envenoming. Materials and Methods: Ethanolic extract of the plant Andrographis paniculata was obtained using a soxhelet apparatus. Lyophilized venom sample of Mesobuthus tamulus was used. Swiss albino mice weighing 20–30 g were used in the study. Calculation of LD99 of Mesobuthus tamulus venom was performed using Turner's method. Acute toxicity of Mesobuthus tamulus venom and its neutralization by the plant extract at a dose of 1 g/kg and 2 g/kg in vivo was seen. Neutralization of the lethal venom effect of Mesobuthus tamulus by plant extract at the dose of 1 g/kg and 2 g/kg by Alam and Gome's method (in vitro) was also seen. Results: The LD99 of Mesobuthus tamulus venom from this study was determined to be 25.12 μg/g and the LD50 was 15.85 μg/g. In the acute toxicity and in vivo neutralization study, plant extract at the dose of 1 g/kg and 2 g/kg resulted in a mean survival of 62.667 min and 39.333 min, respectively. Neutralization of the lethal venom effect of Mesobuthus tamulus by the plant extract at the dose of 1 g/kg and 2 g/kg by Alam and Gome's method (in vitro) showed a mean survival of 49.667 min and 42.5 min, respectively. Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of Adrographis paniculata has some protective effect against the red scorpion venom in mice but does not offer any survival benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranjana I Brahmane
- Department of Pharmacology, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sevagram, Wardha, India
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Prasad R, Mishra OP, Pandey N, Singh TB. Scorpion sting envenomation in children: factors affecting the outcome. Indian J Pediatr 2011; 78:544-8. [PMID: 20938813 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-010-0265-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2010] [Accepted: 10/01/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify and correlate various factors affecting the outcome of children with scorpion sting envenomation treated with prazosin in a tertiary care hospital. METHODS The study included 90 children admitted with scorpion sting envenomation over a period of four and half year. Grading of severity was done on the basis of local or systemic involvement, and management protocol was followed as per hospital guidelines. All cases with envenomation were given prazosin at a dose of 30 μg/kg/dose;first repeat dose at 3 h followed by every 6 h till recovery. Patients with acute pulmonary edema (APE) were treated as per standard protocol. RESULTS All patients had perspiration and cold extremities. Most of them had sting over extremities except two,having over the trunk. Shock was present in 48(53.3%), whereas myocarditis, encephalopathy, pulmonary edema and priapism were present in 38(42.2%), 32(35.5%), 34(37.8%), and 28(31.1%) children, respectively. Eight (8.9%) children had died. The mean value of blood pressure, sodium and potassium among survivors and non-survivors was insignificant. Mortality was significantly higher in children presented after 6 h of bite. Patients, who had metaboloic acidosis, tachpnea, myocarditis, APE, encephalopathy and priapism had significantly higher mortality (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Symptoms of acidosis, tachypnea, myocarditis, APE, encephalopathy after 6 h of sting are major contributing factors affecting outcome in children with scorpion sting envenomation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajniti Prasad
- Department of Pediatrics, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, India.
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Cusinato DAC, Souza AM, Vasconcelos F, Guimarães LFL, Leite FP, Gregório ZMO, Giglio JR, Arantes EC. Assessment of biochemical and hematological parameters in rats injected with Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom. Toxicon 2010; 56:1477-86. [PMID: 20837041 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2010.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2010] [Revised: 09/01/2010] [Accepted: 09/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to evaluate the hematological changes induced by Tityus serrulatus venom (TsV). Blood of Wistar rats was collected 0.5, 2, 6 and 24 h after i.p. injection of TsV (0.5 mg/kg) or saline (controls). Two additional groups were injected with 0.67 mg/kg and 0.25 mg/kg of TsV and the blood was collected after 0.5 and 2 h, respectively. The results showed an increase on hematocrit (Ht), red blood cells (RBC) count, hemoglobin concentration (Hb), albumin and total protein, mainly 2-6 h after envenoming. Increase in serum activities of amylase, creatine kinase and aspartate aminotransferase were also observed, indicating tecidual damages. Hyperglycemia was observed at all times analyzed, as a consequence of catecholamine release. No significant changes were detected in the urea, [Na(+)] and [Ca(2+)], but an increase of [Mg(2+)], [K(+)] and conductivity was observed. TsV induced a reduction of erythrocytes osmotic fragility as consequence of dehydration and increase in plasma electrolytes concentration, as evidenced by its higher conductivity. This study demonstrated that TsV is able to induce severe hematological changes, that appear within the first hours after envenoming, justifying the seeking of medical attention as soon as possible to avoid worsening of clinical symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A C Cusinato
- Depto. Física e Química, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto - USP, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto-SP, Brazil
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Fort A, Cordaillat M, Thollon C, Salazar G, Mechaly I, Villeneuve N, Vilaine JP, Richard S, Virsolvy A. New insights in the contribution of voltage-gated Na(v) channels to rat aorta contraction. PLoS One 2009; 4:e7360. [PMID: 19809503 PMCID: PMC2752992 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0007360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2009] [Accepted: 09/14/2009] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite increasing evidence for the presence of voltage-gated Na+ channels (Nav) isoforms and measurements of Nav channel currents with the patch-clamp technique in arterial myocytes, no information is available to date as to whether or not Nav channels play a functional role in arteries. The aim of the present work was to look for a physiological role of Nav channels in the control of rat aortic contraction. Methodology/Principal Findings Nav channels were detected in the aortic media by Western blot analysis and double immunofluorescence labeling for Nav channels and smooth muscle α-actin using specific antibodies. In parallel, using real time RT-PCR, we identified three Nav transcripts: Nav1.2, Nav1.3, and Nav1.5. Only the Nav1.2 isoform was found in the intact media and in freshly isolated myocytes excluding contamination by other cell types. Using the specific Nav channel agonist veratridine and antagonist tetrodotoxin (TTX), we unmasked a contribution of these channels in the response to the depolarizing agent KCl on rat aortic isometric tension recorded from endothelium-denuded aortic rings. Experimental conditions excluded a contribution of Nav channels from the perivascular sympathetic nerve terminals. Addition of low concentrations of KCl (2–10 mM), which induced moderate membrane depolarization (e.g., from −55.9±1.4 mV to −45.9±1.2 mV at 10 mmol/L as measured with microelectrodes), triggered a contraction potentiated by veratridine (100 µM) and blocked by TTX (1 µM). KB-R7943, an inhibitor of the reverse mode of the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, mimicked the effect of TTX and had no additive effect in presence of TTX. Conclusions/Significance These results define a new role for Nav channels in arterial physiology, and suggest that the TTX-sensitive Nav1.2 isoform, together with the Na+/Ca2+ exchanger, contributes to the contractile response of aortic myocytes at physiological range of membrane depolarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Fort
- Inserm U637, Université Montpellier1 & 2, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Catherine Thollon
- Cardiovascular Division, Institut de Recherches Servier, Suresnes, France
| | | | - Ilana Mechaly
- Inserm U583, Université Montpellier2, Montpellier, France
| | - Nicole Villeneuve
- Cardiovascular Division, Institut de Recherches Servier, Suresnes, France
| | - Jean-Paul Vilaine
- Cardiovascular Division, Institut de Recherches Servier, Suresnes, France
| | - Sylvain Richard
- Inserm U637, Université Montpellier1 & 2, Montpellier, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Anne Virsolvy
- Inserm U637, Université Montpellier1 & 2, Montpellier, France
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Sitprija V. Animal toxins and the kidney. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 4:616-27. [DOI: 10.1038/ncpneph0941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2008] [Accepted: 07/30/2008] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Cecchini AL, Vasconcelos F, Amara SG, Giglio JR, Arantes EC. Effects of Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom and its toxin TsTX-V on neurotransmitter uptake in vitro. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2006; 217:196-203. [PMID: 17049577 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2006.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2006] [Revised: 08/31/2006] [Accepted: 09/04/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Scorpion neurotoxins targeting the Na(v) channel can be classified into two classes: alpha- and beta-neurotoxins and are reported as highly active in mammalian brain. In this work, we evaluate the effects of Tityus serrulatus venom (Ts venom) and its alpha-neurotoxin TsTX-V on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine (DA) and glutamate (Glu) uptake in isolated rat brain synaptosomes. TsTX-V was isolated from Ts venom by ion exchange chromatography followed by reverse-phase (C18) high-performance liquid chromatography. Neither Ts venom nor TsTX-V was able to affect (3)H-Glu uptake. On the other hand, Ts venom (0.13 microg/mg) significantly inhibited both (3)H-GABA and (3)H-DA uptake ( approximately 50%). TsTX-V showed IC(50) values of 9.37 microM and 22.2 microM for the inhibition of (3)H-GABA and (3)H-DA uptake, respectively. These effects were abolished by pre-treatment with tetrodotoxin (TTX, 1 microM), indicating the involvement of voltage-gated Na(+) channels in this process. In the absence of Ca(2+), and at low Ts venom concentrations, the reduction of (3)H-GABA uptake was not as marked as in the presence of Ca(2+). TsTX-V did not reduce (3)H-GABA uptake in COS-7 cells expressing the GABA transporters GAT-1 and GAT-3, suggesting that this toxin indirectly reduces the transport. The reduced (3)H-GABA uptake by synaptosomes might be due to rapid cell depolarization as revealed by confocal microscopy of C6 glioma cells. Thus, TsTX-V causes a reduction of (3)H-GABA and (3)H-DA uptake in a Ca(2+)-dependent manner, not directly affecting GABA transporters, but, in consequence of depolarization, involving voltage-gated Na(+) channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra L Cecchini
- Departamento de Física e Química, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto-USP, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto-SP, Brazil
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Pessini AC, Santos DR, Arantes EC, Souza GEP. Mediators involved in the febrile response induced by Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom in rats. Toxicon 2006; 48:556-66. [PMID: 16911816 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2006.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2005] [Revised: 06/24/2006] [Accepted: 07/03/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Tityus serrulatus venom (Tsv) was intraperitoneally (ip) injected at doses of 75, 150 and 300mug/kg and IL-1beta (2.0 microg/kg) was given intravenously (iv) to male Wistar rats. Rectal temperature was measured by radiotelemetry. Vagotomy was performed according to Bluthe et al. [1994. Lipopolysaccharide induces sickness behaviour in rats by a vagal mediated mechanism. C R Acad. Sci. 317(6), 499-503]. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and peritoneal fluid (PF) levels of bradykinin (BK) were measured by ELISA. B(1) (des-Arg(9)-[Leu(8)]-BK; DALBK) and B(2) kinin receptor (icatibant) antagonists (1.0 mg/kg each), the induced nitric oxide synthase inhibitor aminoguanidine (50.0 mg/kg), the neuronal nitric oxide synthase inhibitor 7-nitroindazole (30.0 mg/kg), the dual cyclooxygenase inhibitor ibuprofen (10.0 mg/kg), the selective interleukin-1 receptor antagonist IL-ra (2.0 mg/kg) and dipyrone (120 mg/kg) were given ip. Celecoxib (5 mg/kg) was given per os (po). Tsv at doses of 75 microg/kg evoked no change in rectal temperature while at doses of 150 and 300 microg/kg it promoted long-lasting fever (2 degrees C+/-0.1). Tsv (150 microg/kg) increased by nearly 3 and 5 times, respectively BK concentration in the CSF and in the PF. Subdiaphragmatic vagotomy or 7-nitroindazole reduced, icatibant, DALBK, IL-1ra, aminoguanidine and dipyrone abolished, while ibuprofen and celecoxib failed to affect Tsv-induced fever. These results suggest that PGs do not play a relevant role, whereas, kinins via their B(1) and B(2) receptors, IL-1, nitric oxide and vagal neurotransmission are involved in Tsv-induced fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréa C Pessini
- Laboratório de Farmacologia, Faculdade de Cincias Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, USP, Av. do Café, s/n Campus USP, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil
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