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Hejníková M, Tomčala A, Černý J, Kodrík D. Melittin-The principal toxin of honeybee venom-Is also produced in the honeybee fat body. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 281:109928. [PMID: 38649084 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Melittin is a powerful toxin present in honeybee venom that is active in a wide range of animals, from insects to humans. Melittin exerts numerous biological, toxicological, and pharmacological effects, the most important of which is destruction of the cell membrane. The phospholipase activity of melittin and its ability to activate phospholipases in the venom contribute to these actions. Using analytical methods, we discovered that the honeybee Apis mellifera produces melittin not only in the venom gland but also in its fat body cells, which remain resistant to this toxin's effects. We suggest that melittin acts as an anti-bacterial agent, since its gene expression is significantly upregulated when honeybees are infected with Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes bacteria; additionally, melittin effectively kills these bacteria in the disc diffusion test. We hypothesize that the chemical and physicochemical properties of the melittin molecule (hydrophilicity, lipophilicity, and capacity to form tetramers) in combination with reactive conditions (melittin concentration, salt concentration, pH, and temperature) are responsible for the targeted destruction of bacterial cells and apparent tolerance towards own tissue cells. Considering that melittin is an important current and, importantly, potential broad-spectrum medication, a thorough understanding of the observed phenomena may significantly increase its use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Hejníková
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Centre, CAS, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Aleš Tomčala
- University of South Bohemia, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Water, CENAKVA, Institute of Aquaculture and Protection of Waters, Na Sádkách 1780, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Černý
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Centre, CAS, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; University of South Bohemia, Faculty of Science, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Dalibor Kodrík
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Centre, CAS, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; University of South Bohemia, Faculty of Science, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
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Jafari Z, Sadeghi S, Dehaghi MM, Bigham A, Honarmand S, Tavasoli A, Hoseini MHM, Varma RS. Immunomodulatory activities and biomedical applications of melittin and its recent advances. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2024; 357:e2300569. [PMID: 38251938 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202300569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Melittin (MLT), a peptide containing 26 amino acids, is a key constituent of bee venom. It comprises ∼40%-60% of the venom's dry weight and is the main pricing index for bee venom, being the causative factor of pain. The unique properties of MLT extracted from bee venom have made it a very valuable active ingredient in the pharmaceutical industry as this cationic and amphipathic peptide has propitious effects on human health in diverse biological processes. It has the ability to strongly impact the membranes of cells and display hemolytic activity with anticancer characteristics. However, the clinical application of MLT has been limited by its severe hemolytic activity, which poses a challenge for therapeutic use. By employing more efficient mechanisms, such as modifying the MLT sequence, genetic engineering, and nano-delivery systems, it is anticipated that the limitations posed by MLT can be overcome, thereby enabling its wider application in therapeutic contexts. This review has outlined recent advancements in MLT's nano-delivery systems and genetically engineered cells expressing MLT and provided an overview of where the MLTMLT's platforms are and where they will go in the future with the challenges ahead. The focus is on exploring how these approaches can overcome the limitations associated with MLT's hemolytic activity and improve its selectivity and efficacy in targeting cancer cells. These advancements hold promise for the creation of innovative and enhanced therapeutic approaches based on MLT for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Jafari
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Sadeghi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Mirzarazi Dehaghi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashkan Bigham
- Institute of Polymers, Composites and Biomaterials, National Research Council of Italy (IPCB-CNR), Naples, Italy
- Department of Chemical, Materials and Production Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Shokouh Honarmand
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Tavasoli
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mostafa Haji Molla Hoseini
- Medical Nanotechnology and Tissue Engineering Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rajender S Varma
- Department of Chemistry, Centre of Excellence for Research in Sustainable Chemistry, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
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Hwang YN, Kwon IS, Na HH, Park JS, Kim KC. Dual Cytotoxic Responses Induced by Treatment of A549 Human Lung Cancer Cells with Sweet Bee Venom in a Dose-Dependent Manner. J Pharmacopuncture 2022; 25:390-395. [PMID: 36628342 PMCID: PMC9806155 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2022.25.4.390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Sweet bee venom (sBV) is purified from Apis mellifera, containing a high level of melittin-its main component. It has been used as a therapeutic agent for pain relief and anti-inflammation, as well as for treating neuronal abnormalities. Recently, there have been studies on the therapeutic application of sBV for anticancer treatment. In the present study, we investigated the pharmacological effect of sBV treatment in A549 human lung cancer cells. Methods We used microscopic analysis to observe the morphological changes in A549 cells after sBV treatment. The MTT assay was used to examine the cytotoxic effect after dose-dependent sBV treatment. Molecular changes in sBV were evaluated by the expression of apoptosis marker proteins using western blot analysis. Results Microscopic analysis suggested that the growth inhibitory effect occurred in a dose-dependent manner; however, cell lysis occurred at a concentration over 20 μg/mL of sBV. The MTT assay indicated that sBV treatment exhibited a growth inhibitory effect at a concentration over 5 μg/mL. On fluorescence activated cell sorting analysis, G0 dead cells were observed after G1 arrest at treatment concentrations up to 10 μg/mL. However, rapid cell rupture was observed at a concentration of 20 μg/mL. Western blot analysis demonstrated that sBV treatment modulated the expression of multiple cell death-related proteins, including cleaved-PARP, cleaved-caspase 9, p53, Bcl2, and Bax. Conclusion sBV induced cell death in A549 human lung cancer cells at a pharmacological concentration, albeit causing hemolytic cell death at a high concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Na Hwang
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Seo Kwon
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Han-Heom Na
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea,Kangwon Center for System Imaging, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Sung Park
- Korean Pharmacopuncture Institute, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Keun-Cheol Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Republic of Korea,Corresponding Author Keun-Cheol Kim, Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Kangwon National University, 1 Kangwondaehak Rd, Chuncheon 24341, Republic of Korea, Tel: +82-33-250-8532, E-mail:
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Wang A, Zheng Y, Zhu W, Yang L, Yang Y, Peng J. Melittin-Based Nano-Delivery Systems for Cancer Therapy. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12010118. [PMID: 35053266 PMCID: PMC8773652 DOI: 10.3390/biom12010118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Melittin (MEL) is a 26-amino acid polypeptide with a variety of pharmacological and toxicological effects, which include strong surface activity on cell lipid membranes, hemolytic activity, and potential anti-tumor properties. However, the clinical application of melittin is restricted due to its severe hemolytic activity. Different nanocarrier systems have been developed to achieve stable loading, side effects shielding, and tumor-targeted delivery, such as liposomes, cationic polymers, lipodisks, etc. In addition, MEL can be modified on nano drugs as a non-selective cytolytic peptide to enhance cellular uptake and endosomal/lysosomal escape. In this review, we discuss recent advances in MEL’s nano-delivery systems and MEL-modified nano drug carriers for cancer therapy.
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Lin TY, Hsieh CL. Clinical Applications of Bee Venom Acupoint Injection. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12100618. [PMID: 32992601 PMCID: PMC7601520 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12100618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bee venom is a complex natural mixture with various pharmaceutical properties. Among these properties, its peptides and enzymes have potential medical therapy for pain relief and inflammation. In clinical settings, this therapy has been used widely to treat diseases by injecting into acupoints. In this article, we have conducted various research from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Clinical Key from inception of July 2020. The results revealed that bee venom therapy has been reported effective in anti-inflammatory, antiapoptosis, and analgesic effects. Moreover, bee venom acupuncture has been commonly used for clinical disorders such as Parkinson disease, neuropathic pain, Alzheimer disease, intervertebral disc disease, spinal cord injury, musculoskeletal pain, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, skin disease and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Yen Lin
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan;
| | - Ching-Liang Hsieh
- Department of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40447, Taiwan;
- Graduate Institute of Acupuncture Science, College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Chinese Medicine Research Center, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2205-3366-3128
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An overview of the bioactive compounds, therapeutic properties and toxic effects of apitoxin. Food Chem Toxicol 2019; 134:110864. [PMID: 31574265 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2019.110864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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The Influence of Bee Venom Melittin on the Functioning of the Immune System and the Contractile Activity of the Insect Heart-A Preliminary Study. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11090494. [PMID: 31461888 PMCID: PMC6784010 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11090494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Melittin (MEL) is a basic polypeptide originally purified from honeybee venom. MEL exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activity. However, almost all studies on MEL activity have been carried out on vertebrate models or cell lines. Recently, due to cheap breeding and the possibility of extrapolating the results of the research to vertebrates, insects have been used for various bioassays and comparative physiological studies. For these reasons, it is valuable to examine the influence of melittin on insect physiology. Here, for the first time, we report the immunotropic and cardiotropic effects of melittin on the beetle Tenebrio molitor as a model insect. After melittin injection at 10−7 M and 10−3 M, the number of apoptotic cells in the haemolymph increased in a dose-dependent manner. The pro-apoptotic action of MEL was likely compensated by increasing the total number of haemocytes. However, the injection of MEL did not cause any changes in the percent of phagocytic haemocytes or in the phenoloxidase activity. In an in vitro bioassay with a semi-isolated Tenebrio heart, MEL induced a slight chronotropic-positive effect only at a higher concentration (10−4 M). Preliminary results indicated that melittin exerts pleiotropic effects on the functioning of the immune system and the endogenous contractile activity of the heart. Some of the induced responses in T. molitor resemble the reactions observed in vertebrate models. Therefore, the T. molitor beetle may be a convenient invertebrate model organism for comparative physiological studies and for the identification of new properties and mechanisms of action of melittin and related compounds.
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Myasoedova VA, Chistiakov DA, Grechko AV, Orekhov AN. Matrix metalloproteinases in pro-atherosclerotic arterial remodeling. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2018; 123:159-167. [PMID: 30172754 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2018.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) is a family of Zn2+ endopeptidases that process various components of the extracellular matrix. These enzymes are also involved in activation and inhibition of signaling cascades through proteolytic cleavage of surface receptors. Moreover, MMPs play a key role in tissue remodeling and and repair. Dysregulation of MMPs is observed in patholofgical conditions, including atherosclerosis, which is associated with hyperactivation of MMPs, aberrant tissue remodeling and neovascularization of the growing atherosclerotic plaques. This makes MMPs interesting therapeutic targets that can be employed for developing novel therapies to treat atherosclerosis and its complications. Currently, a growing number of synthetic MMP inhibitors is available. In this review, we will discuss the role of these enzymes in atherosclerosis pathology and the ways of their pothential therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika A Myasoedova
- Laboratory of Angiopathology, Institute of General Pathology and Pathophysiology, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, 125315 Moscow, Russia
| | - Dimitry A Chistiakov
- Department of Basic and Applied Neurobiology, Serbsky Federal Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Narcology, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey V Grechko
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Intensive Care Medicine and Rehabilitology, 109240 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander N Orekhov
- Department of Basic and Applied Neurobiology, Serbsky Federal Medical Research Center for Psychiatry and Narcology, 119991 Moscow, Russia; Institute for Atherosclerosis Research, Skolkovo Innovative Center, 121609 Moscow, Russia.
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Liao W, Fan H, Wu J. Egg White-Derived Antihypertensive Peptide IRW (Ile-Arg-Trp) Inhibits Angiotensin II-Stimulated Migration of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells via Angiotensin Type I Receptor. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2018; 66:5133-5138. [PMID: 29714061 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.8b00483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Excessive proliferation, inflammation, oxidative stress, and migration induced by angiotensin II (Ang II), occurring in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) during vascular remodelling, are major pathogenesis of hypertension. Antihypertensive peptides derived from food proteins are promising alternatives in preventing/treating hypertension and associated complications. In addition to reducing high blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats, egg white ovotransferrin-derived antihypertensive IRW (Ile-Arg-Trp) was shown to exert antiproliferative, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects in A7r5 cells (a vascular smooth muscle cell line) against Ang II stimulation, further indicating its potential in retarding vascular remodelling. Since its regulatory role in migration of VSMC is unclear, the objective of this study was to evaluate the antimigrant activity of IRW in Ang II-stimulated A7r5 cells. It was found that IRW could downregulate matrix metallopeptidase 9 (MMP9) expression and inhibit migration of Ang II-stimulated A7r5 cells, which was associated with inactivation of p38/MAPK signaling. More importantly, the antimigrant activity of IRW in Ang II-stimulated A7r5 cells was dependent on angiotensin type I receptor (AT1R). Our study provided the first evidence that egg ovotransferrin-derived antihypertensive peptide IRW inhibited migration of VSMCs.
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MESH Headings
- Angiotensin II/metabolism
- Animals
- Antihypertensive Agents/pharmacology
- Cell Movement/drug effects
- Egg White/chemistry
- Humans
- Hypertension/drug therapy
- Hypertension/genetics
- Hypertension/metabolism
- Hypertension/physiopathology
- Male
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/cytology
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/drug effects
- Muscle, Smooth, Vascular/metabolism
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/cytology
- Myocytes, Smooth Muscle/metabolism
- Peptides/chemistry
- Peptides/pharmacology
- Rats
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/genetics
- Receptor, Angiotensin, Type 1/metabolism
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
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Melittin Constrains the Expression of Identified Key Genes Associated with Bladder Cancer. J Immunol Res 2018; 2018:5038172. [PMID: 29854840 PMCID: PMC5960535 DOI: 10.1155/2018/5038172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Revised: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This work is aimed at investigating the effect of melittin on identified key genes in bladder cancer (BC) and further providing a theoretical basis for BC treatment. GSE35014 downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in BC cells and control. Results showed that a total of 389 upregulated and 169 downregulated genes were identified. Subsequently, GO analysis, KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, and PPI network analysis were employed to disclose the crucial genes and signaling pathways involved in BC. Fifteen module-related DEGs and their associated signaling pathways were obtained according to the PPI network and modular analyses. Based on the analysis of articles retrieved in the PubMed database, we found that melittin could induce apoptosis and constrain the progression of tumor cells as a result of regulating critical cancer-related signaling pathways, such as PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways. Furthermore, PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways were also found to be associated with module-related DEGs according to biological analyses. At last, qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated that melittin could constrain the expression of module-related DEGs (LPAR1, COL5A1, COL6A2, CXCL1, CXCL2, and CXCL3) associated with PI3K-Akt and TNF signaling pathways in BC cells. Functional assays revealed that melittin could constrain the proliferative and migrated abilities of BC cells. Conjointly, these findings provide a theoretical basis for these six genes as drug-sensitive markers of melittin in BC treatment.
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Cai M, Chen S, Hu W. MicroRNA-141 Is Involved in Ulcerative Colitis Pathogenesis via Aiming at CXCL5. J Interferon Cytokine Res 2018; 37:415-420. [PMID: 28854064 DOI: 10.1089/jir.2017.0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are gene expression's important posttranscriptional regulators. The precise function of miRNAs in ulcerative colitis (UC) is not entirely known. Our investigation's aim was to identify miRNAs induced in patients with active UC and to evaluate miR-141 influences on ameliorating intestinal inflammation. The miRNA expression profiles in patients suffering active UC (n = 15) and healthy individuals used as control (n = 13) were assessed adopting miRNA microarrays. Via quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, miR-141 expression was confirmed. Modulation of the objective gene CXCL5 expression through miR-141 was examined via luciferase reporter construct assays and miR-141 mimic or inhibitor transfections. The impacts of CXCL5 or miR-141 on AKT, MMP-2, and MMP-9 were examined via Western blot in HT29 cells. We found that in patients suffering active UC, miR-141 was substantially downregulated, and CXCL5 expression efficaciously increased. The results of luciferase reporter assays illustrated that miR-141 directly targeted CXCL5 and affected downstream expression of CXCL5 in HT29 cells. In addition, quiescent CXCL5 and the overexpression of miR-141 reduced levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in tumor necrosis factor-α-treated HT29 cells by means of repressing the inhibitory AKT. miR-141 seems to play a role in the bowel inflammation of individuals with active UC via downregulation of CXCL5 expression. This method may be related with the AKT activation signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao Cai
- Department of Coloproctology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou, China
| | - Suping Chen
- Department of Coloproctology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou, China
| | - Wanle Hu
- Department of Coloproctology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University , Wenzhou, China
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Zhang S, Liu Y, Ye Y, Wang XR, Lin LT, Xiao LY, Zhou P, Shi GX, Liu CZ. Bee venom therapy: Potential mechanisms and therapeutic applications. Toxicon 2018; 148:64-73. [PMID: 29654868 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Revised: 03/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Bee venom is a very complex mixture of natural products extracted from honey bee which contains various pharmaceutical properties such as peptides, enzymes, biologically active amines and nonpeptide components. The use of bee venom into the specific points is so called bee venom therapy, which is widely used as a complementary and alternative therapy for 3000 years. A growing number of evidence has demonstrated the anti-inflammation, the anti-apoptosis, the anti-fibrosis and the anti-arthrosclerosis effects of bee venom therapy. With these pharmaceutical characteristics, bee venom therapy has also been used as the therapeutic method in treating rheumatoid arthritis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, liver fibrosis, atherosclerosis, pain and others. Although widely used, several cases still reported that bee venom therapy might cause some adverse effects, such as local itching or swelling. In this review, we summarize its potential mechanisms, therapeutic applications, and discuss its existing problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Zhang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Yang Ye
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 6 Fangxingyuan 1st Block, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100078, China
| | - Xue-Rui Wang
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 6 Fangxingyuan 1st Block, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100078, China
| | - Li-Ting Lin
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Ling-Yong Xiao
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 6 Fangxingyuan 1st Block, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100078, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Guang-Xia Shi
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Capital Medical University, 23 Meishuguanhou Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100010, China
| | - Cun-Zhi Liu
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Dongfang Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, No. 6 Fangxingyuan 1st Block, Fengtai District, Beijing, 100078, China.
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Pak SC. An Introduction to the Toxins Special Issue on "Bee and Wasp Venoms: Biological Characteristics and Therapeutic Application". Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:toxins8110315. [PMID: 27801836 PMCID: PMC5127112 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8110315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sok Cheon Pak
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, NSW 2795, Australia.
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14
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Application of bee venom and its main constituent melittin for cancer treatment. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2016; 78:1113-1130. [DOI: 10.1007/s00280-016-3160-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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15
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The protective effect of bee venom on fibrosis causing inflammatory diseases. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 7:4758-72. [PMID: 26580653 PMCID: PMC4663532 DOI: 10.3390/toxins7114758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 10/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bee venom therapy is a treatment modality that may be thousands of years old and involves the application of live bee stings to the patient’s skin or, in more recent years, the injection of bee venom into the skin with a hypodermic needle. Studies have proven the effectiveness of bee venom in treating pathological conditions such as arthritis, pain and cancerous tumors. However, there has not been sufficient review to fully elucidate the cellular mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory effects of bee venom and its components. In this respect, the present study reviews current understanding of the mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory properties of bee venom and its components in the treatment of liver fibrosis, atherosclerosis and skin disease.
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Shao G, Qian D, Wang H, Yan Z, Hu M, Wang T, Wang B. Construction of the plasmid coding for the expression of the EGFP- M-IL-2( 88Arg, 125Ala) fusion protein and the anti-tumor effects exerted by the fusion protein in HeLa-60 cells. Oncol Lett 2015; 9:2729-2735. [PMID: 26137137 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2015.3125] [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: 06/22/2014] [Accepted: 03/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene therapy is a promising therapeutic option for the treatment of various cancers, and tumor-targeted plasmids encoding toxic protein genes are potential tools for gene therapy. In the present study, a recombinant plasmid containing the genes for the toxic protein melittin and interleukin-2 (IL-2) was constructed. Melittin and IL-2 are known to play key roles in immunoregulation and cancer therapy, but they each possess defects that limit the clinical application of these proteins. The present study aimed to construct a novel recombinant expression plasmid, pLEGFP-C1-M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala), and to improve the biological activity of IL-2 and melittin. The M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) gene was excised from the pPICZαA/M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) plasmid by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The pLEGFP-C1 plasmid carrying the enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) gene was used as a shuttle plasmid. Subsequent to digestion, the M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) gene was subcloned into the pLEGFP-C1 vector to build the pLEGFP-C1-M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) eukaryotic expression plasmid, which was identified by restriction enzyme digestion and gene sequencing. Confocal microscopy was used to determine the transfection efficiency subsequent to the plasmid being transfected into the cervical cancer HeLa cell line. The cells transfected with the pLEGFP-C1-M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) plasmid demonstrated a decreased transfection efficiency compared with the cells transfected with the pLEGFP-C1 plasmid. The cellular expression of M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) was detected by reverse transcription PCR and western blot analysis. Finally, cell counting kit-8 and apoptosis assays were performed to investigate the effects of the expression of the M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) fusion protein on HeLa cells and to analyze the antitumor activity of the protein. In conclusion, a recombinant eukaryotic pLEGFP-C1-M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) expression plasmid containing the M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) fusion gene was constructed and the M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) fusion protein was successfully expressed in HeLa cells. Furthermore, the M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) fusion protein was able to inhibit HeLa cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in the tumor cells. These findings may offer an alternative method for anticancer therapy. The present study has provided a basis for future studies into the M-IL-2(88Arg, 125Ala) fusion gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangcan Shao
- Department of Microbiology, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Dongmeng Qian
- Department of Microbiology, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Haitao Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Zhiyong Yan
- Department of Microbiology, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Ming Hu
- Department of Microbiology, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Tongmei Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Microbiology, Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
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17
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Jeong YJ, Shin JM, Bae YS, Cho HJ, Park KK, Choe JY, Han SM, Moon SK, Kim WJ, Choi YH, Kim CH, Chang HW, Chang YC. Melittin has a chondroprotective effect by inhibiting MMP-1 and MMP-8 expressions via blocking NF-κB and AP-1 signaling pathway in chondrocytes. Int Immunopharmacol 2015; 25:400-5. [PMID: 25708656 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2015.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2014] [Revised: 01/26/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Bee venom is a natural ingredient produced by the honey bee (Apis mellifera), and has been widely used in China, Korea and Japan as a traditional medicine for various diseases such as arthritis, rheumatism, and skin diseases However, the regulation of the underlying molecular mechanisms of the anti-arthritis by bee venom and its major peptides is largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the potential molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-arthritis effect of bee venom and its major peptides, melittin and apamin, in tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) responsive C57BL/6 mice chondrocyte cells. The bee venom and melittin significantly and selectively suppressed the TNF-α-mediated decrease of type II collagen expression, whereas the apamin had no effects on the type II collagen expression. We, furthermore, found that the bee venom and melittin inhibited the protein expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and MMP-8, which suggests that the chondroprotective effect of bee venom may be caused by melittin. The inhibitory effects of melittin on the TNF-α-induced MMP-1 and MMP-8 protein expression were regulated by the inhibition of NF-kB and AP-1. In addition, melittin suppressed the TNF-α-induced phosphorylation of Akt, JNK and ERK1/2, but did not affect the phosphorylation of p38 kinase. These results suggest that melittin suppresses TNF-α-stimulated decrease of type II collagen expression by the inhibiting MMP-1 and MMP-8 through regulation of the NF-kB and AP-1 pathway and provision of a novel role for melittin in anti-arthritis action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Jeong Jeong
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 705-718, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Moon Shin
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 705-718, Republic of Korea; School of Life Sciences, KNU Creative BioResearch Group (BK21 plus program), Kyungpook National University, Daegu 702-701 Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Seuk Bae
- School of Life Sciences, KNU Creative BioResearch Group (BK21 plus program), Kyungpook National University, Daegu 702-701 Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Ji Cho
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 705-718, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwan-Kyu Park
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 705-718, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Yoon Choe
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 705-718, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Mi Han
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology, Suwon, Kyunggi-Do 441-100, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Kwon Moon
- School of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Ansung 456-756, Republic of Korea
| | - Wun-Jae Kim
- Personalized Tumor Engineering Research Center, Department of Urology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Yung Hyun Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Oriental Medicine, Dongeui University, Busan 614-052, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheorl-Ho Kim
- Department of Biological Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Kyunggi-Do 440-746, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeun-Wook Chang
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 701-947, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Chae Chang
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu 705-718, Republic of Korea.
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18
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Li YQ, Liu R, Xue JH, Zhang Y, Gao DF, Wu XS, Wang CX, Yang YB. Effects of monocyte-endothelium interactions on the expression of type IV collagenases in monocytes. Exp Ther Med 2014; 9:527-532. [PMID: 25574228 PMCID: PMC4280919 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2014.2109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The adhesion of monocytes to endothelial cells is one of the early stages in the development of atherosclerosis. The expression of type IV collagenases, which include matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9, in monocytes is hypothesized to play an important role in monocyte infiltration and transformation into foam cells. The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of monocyte-endothelium interactions on the expression levels of type IV collagenases and their specific inhibitors in monocytes, and to investigate the roles of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β in this process. Monocytes were single-cultured or co-cultured with endothelial cells. The expression of the type IV collagenases, MMP-2 and MMP-9, and their specific inhibitors, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 and TIMP-2, in monocytes was determined by immunohistochemistry followed by image analysis. The expression levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were found to be low in the single-culture monocytes, but increased significantly when the monocytes and endothelial cells were co-cultured. However, treatment with monoclonal TNF-α or IL-1β antibodies partially inhibited the upregulated expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in the co-cultured monocytes. Expression of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 was observed in the single monocyte culture, and a small increase in the expression levels was observed when the monocytes were co-cultured with endothelial cells. Therefore, monocyte-endothlium interactions were shown to increase the expression of type IV collagenases in monocytes, resulting in the loss of balance between MMP-2 and -9 with TIMP-1 and -2. In addition, TNF-α and IL-1β were demonstrated to play important roles in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Qin Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Rui Liu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Hong Xue
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Deng-Feng Gao
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-San Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Cong-Xia Wang
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710004, P.R. China
| | - Yu-Bai Yang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical School of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
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19
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Jia SJ, Niu PP, Cong JZ, Zhang BK, Zhao M. TLR4 signaling: A potential therapeutic target in ischemic coronary artery disease. Int Immunopharmacol 2014; 23:54-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2014.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Revised: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 08/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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20
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Im NK, Jang WJ, Jeong CH, Jeong GS. Delphinidin Suppresses PMA-Induced MMP-9 Expression by Blocking the NF-κB Activation Through MAPK Signaling Pathways in MCF-7 Human Breast Carcinoma Cells. J Med Food 2014; 17:855-61. [DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2013.3077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nam-Kyung Im
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Dae-gu, Korea
| | - Won Jun Jang
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Dae-gu, Korea
| | - Chul-Ho Jeong
- College of Pharmacy, Keimyung University, Dae-gu, Korea
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21
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Jeong YJ, Choi Y, Shin JM, Cho HJ, Kang JH, Park KK, Choe JY, Bae YS, Han SM, Kim CH, Chang HW, Chang YC. Melittin suppresses EGF-induced cell motility and invasion by inhibiting PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in breast cancer cells. Food Chem Toxicol 2014; 68:218-25. [PMID: 24675423 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2014.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Revised: 02/21/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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22
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Yin Y, Wan J, Li P, Jia Y, Sun R, Pan G, Wan G. Protective effect of Xin Mai Jia ultrafiltration extract on human umbilical vein endothelial cell injury induced by hydrogen peroxide and the effect on the NO-cGMP signaling pathway. Exp Ther Med 2014; 8:38-48. [PMID: 24944594 PMCID: PMC4061210 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2014.1700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the protective effect of the ultrafiltration extract of Xin Mai Jia (XMJ) on a human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) injury model induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), by providing experimental data to investigate the mechanism and efficacy underlying the therapeutic effects on atherosclerosis. HUVECs were first injured by H2O2 and then varying final concentrations of the Chinese herb extract were added. Effects of the XMJ extract on morphology, activity, monolayer permeability, biochemical indicators, cytokines, endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) protein content and eNOS gene expression in the HUVECs were analyzed. H2O2 significantly promoted HUVEC injury. The XMJ ultrafiltration extract significantly improved the morphological changes in the injured HUVECs. In addition, XMJ treatment increased cell activity and decreased monolayer permeability. The expression levels of intracellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular adhesion molecule-1, interleukin-1 and -6 and nuclear factor-κB decreased, while the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 increased with XMJ administration. Increased levels of nitric oxide (NO), eNOS protein and eNOS gene expression were also observed. Therefore, the XMJ ultrafiltration extract exhibits marked anti-inflammatory effects and antioxidant abilities. These properties significantly inhibited the H2O2-induced injury of HUVECs, which may be associated with the NO-cyclic guanosine monophosphate signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaling Yin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Jia Wan
- Department of Nephrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450052, P.R. China
| | - Peng Li
- College of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Yanlong Jia
- College of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Ruili Sun
- Department of Inspection, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Guopin Pan
- College of Pharmacy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Guangrui Wan
- Modern Technology Education Center, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
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23
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Park D, Jung JW, Lee MO, Lee SY, Kim B, Jin HJ, Kim J, Ahn YJ, Lee KW, Song YS, Hong S, Womack JE, Kwon HW. Functional characterization of naturally occurring melittin peptide isoforms in two honey bee species, Apis mellifera and Apis cerana. Peptides 2014; 53:185-93. [PMID: 24512991 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2014.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Revised: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Insect-derived antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have diverse effects on antimicrobial properties and pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammation and anticancer properties. Naturally occurring genetic polymorphism have a direct and/or indirect influence on pharmacological effect of AMPs, therefore information on single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) occurring in natural AMPs provides an important clue to therapeutic applications. Here we identified nucleotide polymorphisms in melittin gene of honey bee populations, which is one of the potent AMP in bee venoms. We found that the novel SNP of melittin gene exists in these two honey bee species, Apis mellifera and Apis cerana. Nine polymorphisms were identified within the coding region of the melittin gene, of which one polymorphism that resulted in serine (Ser) to asparagine (Asp) substitution that can potentially effect on biological activities of melittin peptide. Serine-substituted melittin (Mel-S) showed more cytotoxic effect than asparagine-substituted melittin (Mel-N) against E. coli. Also, Mel-N and Mel-S had different inhibitory effects on the production of inflammatory factors such as IL-6 and TNF-α in BV-2 cells. Moreover, Mel-S showed stronger cytotoxic activities than Mel-N peptide against two human ovarian cancer cell lines. Using carbon nanotube-based transistor, we here characterized that Mel-S interacted with small unilamellar liposomes more strongly than Mel-N. Taken together, our present study demonstrates that there exist different characteristics of the gene frequency and the biological activities of the melittin peptide in two honey bee species, Apis mellifera and A. cerana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doori Park
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Je Won Jung
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Ok Lee
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Si Young Lee
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Boyun Kim
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jun Jin
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-747, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyoung Kim
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Joon Ahn
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Won Lee
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Sang Song
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghun Hong
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-747, Republic of Korea
| | - James E Womack
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Hyung Wook Kwon
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea.
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24
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Cho HJ, Kang JH, Park KK, Choe JY, Park YY, Moon YS, Chung IK, Chang HW, Kim CH, Choi YH, Kim WJ, Moon SK, Chang YC. Comparative proteome analysis of Tumor necrosis factor α-stimulated human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells in response to melittin. Proteome Sci 2013; 11:20. [PMID: 23651618 PMCID: PMC3655938 DOI: 10.1186/1477-5956-11-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 05/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bee venom has been used to relieve pain and to treat inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, in humans. To better understand the mechanisms of the anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerosis effect of bee venom, gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry were used to identify proteins whose expression was altered in human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells (hVSMCs) stimulated by tumor necrosis factor alpha after 12 h in the presence of melittin. Results To obtain valuable insights into the anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerosis mechanisms of melittin, two-dimensional (2-D) gel electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF/TOF were used. The proteome study, we showed 33 significant proteins that were differentially expressed in the cells treated with tumor necrosis factor alpha and melittin. Thirteen proteins were significantly increased in the cells treated with tumor necrosis factor alpha, and those proteins were reduced in the cells treated with melittin. Five of the proteins that showed increased expression in the cells treated with tumor necrosis factor alpha are involved in cell migration, including calreticulin, an essential factor of development that plays a role in transcription regulation. The proteins involved in cell migration were reduced in the melittin treated cells. The observed changes in the expression of GRP75, prohibitin, and a select group of other proteins were validated with reverse transcribed-PCR. It was confirmed that the observed change in the protein levels reflected a change in the genes level. In addition, the phosphorylation of EGFR and ERK was validated by analyzing the protein pathway. Conclusion Taken together, these data established that the expression of some proteins was significantly changed by melittin treatment in tumor necrosis factor alpha stimulated the cells and provided insights into the mechanism of the melittin function for its potential use as an anti-inflammatory agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Ji Cho
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, 705-718, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Han Kang
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, NCI, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Kwan-Kyu Park
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, 705-718, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Yoon Choe
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, 705-718, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon-Yub Park
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, 705-718, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Suk Moon
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, 705-718, Republic of Korea
| | - Il-Kyung Chung
- Department of Biotechnology, Catholic University of Daegu, Gyeongsan, 712-702, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeun-Wook Chang
- College of Pharmacy, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 712-749, Republic of Korea
| | - Cheorl-Ho Kim
- Department of Biological Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Sungkyunkwan, Kyunggi-Do, 440-746, Republic of Korea
| | - Yung Hyun Choi
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Oriental Medicine, Dongeui University, Busan, 614-052, Republic of Korea
| | - Wun-Jae Kim
- Personalized Tumor Engineering Research Center, Department of Urology, Chungbuk National University, Chungbuk, Cheongju, 361-763, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Kwon Moon
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Ansung, 456-756, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Chae Chang
- Research Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medicine, Catholic University of Daegu School of Medicine, Daegu, 705-718, Republic of Korea
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