1
|
Mabunda IG, Zinyemba NK, Pillay S, Offor BC, Muller B, Piater LA. The geographical distribution of scorpions, implication of venom toxins, envenomation, and potential therapeutics in Southern and Northern Africa. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2024; 13:tfae118. [PMID: 39100857 PMCID: PMC11298049 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfae118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Scorpions are predatory arachnids whose venomous sting primarily affects people in tropical and subtropical regions. Most scorpion stings can only cause localized pain without severe envenomation. Less than one-third of the stings cause systemic envenoming and possibly lead to death. About 350,000 scorpion stings in Northern Africa are recorded yearly, resulting in about 810 deaths. In Eastern/Southern Africa, there are about 79,000 stings recorded yearly, resulting in 245 deaths. Farmers and those living in poverty-stricken areas are among the most vulnerable to getting stung by scorpions. However, compared to adults, children are at greater risk of severe envenomation. Scorpion venom is made up of complex mixtures dominated by peptides and proteins that confer its potency and toxicity. These venom toxins have intra- and interspecies variations associated with the scorpion's habitat, sex, diet, and age. These variations alter the activity of antivenoms used to treat scorpion sting envenomation. Thus, the study of the proteome composition of medically important scorpion venoms needs to be scaled up along their geographical distribution and contributions to envenomation in Southern and Northern Africa. This will help the production of safer, more effective, and broad-spectrum antivenoms within these regions. Here, we review the clinical implications of scorpion sting envenomation in Southern and Northern Africa. We further highlight the compositions of scorpion venoms and tools used in scorpion venomics. We discuss current antivenoms used against scorpion sting envenomation and suggestions for future production of better antivenoms or alternatives. Finally, we discuss the therapeutic properties of scorpion venom.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isac G Mabunda
- Department of Biochemistry, Corner of Kingsway and University Road, Auckland Park Campus, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Nodji K Zinyemba
- Department of Biochemistry, Corner of Kingsway and University Road, Auckland Park Campus, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Shanelle Pillay
- Department of Biochemistry, Corner of Kingsway and University Road, Auckland Park Campus, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Benedict C Offor
- Department of Biochemistry, Corner of Kingsway and University Road, Auckland Park Campus, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Beric Muller
- South Africa Venom Suppliers cc, 41 Louis, Trichardt 0920, South Africa
| | - Lizelle A Piater
- Department of Biochemistry, Corner of Kingsway and University Road, Auckland Park Campus, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park, 2006, Gauteng, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Michálek O, King GF, Pekár S. Prey specificity of predatory venoms. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2024. [PMID: 38991997 DOI: 10.1111/brv.13120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Venom represents a key adaptation of many venomous predators, allowing them to immobilise prey quickly through chemical rather than physical warfare. Evolutionary arms races between prey and a predator are believed to be the main factor influencing the potency and composition of predatory venoms. Predators with narrowly restricted diets are expected to evolve specifically potent venom towards their focal prey, with lower efficacy on alternative prey. Here, we evaluate hypotheses on the evolution of prey-specific venom, focusing on the effect of restricted diet, prey defences, and prey resistance. Prey specificity as a potential evolutionary dead end is also discussed. We then provide an overview of the current knowledge on venom prey specificity, with emphasis on snakes, cone snails, and spiders. As the current evidence for venom prey specificity is still quite limited, we also overview the best approaches and methods for its investigation and provide a brief summary of potential model groups. Finally, possible applications of prey-specific toxins are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ondřej Michálek
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, Brno, 611 37, Czech Republic
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Stano Pekár
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, Brno, 611 37, Czech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Feás X, Alonso-Sampedro M, Bravo SB, Vidal C. Peeking into the Stingers: A Comprehensive SWATH-MS Study of the European Hornet Vespa crabro (Linnaeus, 1758) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) Venom Sac Extracts. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3798. [PMID: 38612607 PMCID: PMC11011553 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073798] [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: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the venom sac extracts (VSEs) of the European hornet (EH) Vespa crabro (Linnaeus, 1758) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae), focusing on the differences between stinging females, gynes (G), and workers (W), at the protein level. Using a quantitative "Sequential Window Acquisition of all Theoretical Fragment Ion Mass Spectra" (SWATH-MS) analysis, we identified and quantified a total of 240 proteins. Notably, within the group, 45.8% (n = 110) showed significant differential expression between VSE-G and VSE-W. In this set, 57.3% (n = 63) were upregulated and 42.7% (n = 47) downregulated in the G. Additionally, the two-hundred quantified proteins from the class Insecta belong to sixteen different species, six of them to the Hymenoptera/Apidae lineage, comprising seven proteins with known potential allergenicity. Thus, phospholipase A1 (Vesp v 1), phospholipase A1 verutoxin 2b (VT-2b), hyaluronidase A (Vesp v 2A), hyaluronidase B (Vesp v 2B), and venom allergen 5 (Vesp v 5) were significantly downregulated in the G, and vitellogenin (Vesp v 6) was upregulated. Overall, 46% of the VSE proteins showed differential expression, with a majority being upregulated in G. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD047955. These findings shed light on the proteomic differences in VSE between EH castes, potentially contributing to our understanding of their behavior and offering insights for allergy research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xesús Feás
- Academy of Veterinary Sciences of Galicia, 15707 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (FIDIS), Hospital Clínico, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (M.A.-S.); (S.B.B.)
| | - Manuela Alonso-Sampedro
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (FIDIS), Hospital Clínico, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (M.A.-S.); (S.B.B.)
- Research Methods Group (RESMET), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion (RICAPPS-ISCIII/RD21/0016/0022), University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Susana Belén Bravo
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (FIDIS), Hospital Clínico, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (M.A.-S.); (S.B.B.)
- Proteomic Unit, Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Carmen Vidal
- Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago de Compostela (FIDIS), Hospital Clínico, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (M.A.-S.); (S.B.B.)
- Research Methods Group (RESMET), Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Network for Research on Chronicity, Primary Care, and Health Promotion (RICAPPS-ISCIII/RD21/0016/0022), University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Allergy Department, University Hospital of Santiago de Compostela, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Department of Psychiatry, Radiology, Public Health, Nursing and Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Santiago de Compostela (USC), 15782 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Marriott AE, Casewell NR, Lilley E, Gutiérrez JM, Ainsworth S. Improving in vivo assays in snake venom and antivenom research: A community discussion. F1000Res 2024; 13:192. [PMID: 38708289 PMCID: PMC11066530 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.148223.1] [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] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
On the 26 th January 2023, a free to attend, 'improving in vivo snake venom research: a community discussion' meeting was held virtually. This webinar brought together researchers from around the world to discuss current neutralisation of venom lethality mouse assays that are used globally to assess the efficacy of therapies for snakebite envenoming. The assay's strengths and weaknesses were highlighted, and we discussed what improvements could be made to refine and reduce animal testing, whilst supporting preclinical antivenom and drug discovery for snakebite envenoming. This report summarises the issues highlighted, the discussions held, with additional commentary on key perspectives provided by the authors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy E Marriott
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, England, L3 5RF, UK
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Nicholas R Casewell
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Elliot Lilley
- National Centre for the Replacement, Reduction and Refinement of Animals in Research, London, NW1 2BE, UK
| | - José-María Gutiérrez
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, 11501-2060, Costa Rica
| | - Stuart Ainsworth
- Department of Infection Biology and Microbiomes, Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, England, L3 5RF, UK
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ajdi B, El Asbahani A, El Hidan MA, Bocquet M, Falconnet L, Ait Hamza M, Elmourid A, Touloun O, Boubaker H, Bulet P. Molecular diversity assessed by MALDI mass spectrometry of two scorpion species venom from two different locations in Morocco. Toxicon 2024; 238:107562. [PMID: 38103799 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Scorpion venom is a cocktail of molecules whose composition is remarkably plastic, controlled by several factors. The Moroccan scorpion fauna is characterized by its richness and high rate of endemism and the venom molecular variability of many species is not yet well characterized. The aim of the present study was to highlight the molecular variability of the venom composition of Androctonus amoreuxi and Buthacus stockmanni (endemic species), both belonging to the Buthidae family, collected from two Moroccan regions, Zagora and Tan-tan. Characterization of the molecular mass fingerprints (MFPs) of each specimen was performed by Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) using a sandwich (Sand) and a dried-droplet (DD) sample preparation and dilutions. Considering these two methods, a total of 828 ion signals were detected, and Sand method produced more adducts (56%) than DD (44%). We observed interspecific variations in the venom composition between these two species showing they share 235 ion signals, while 226 and 367 are specific for these two species, respectively. Moreover, B. stockmanni specimens showed a clear difference in their MFPs between the two geographical areas studied, suggesting intraspecific variations. Moreover, specimens from each population also show an intraspecific variability. In addition, for the same individual, a variation in the venom composition was also recorded depending on the milking frequency. Our results confirmed the presence of characteristic components in each extracted venom sample. In conclusion, MFPs assessed by MALDI-MS represent a fast, non-supervised, sensitive, reliable and cost-efficient approach for taxonomic identification and molecular variability characterization. This study undoubtedly represents a step forward for understanding the scorpion venom plasticity, intra/inter variations, and their temporal and geographical variability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boujemaa Ajdi
- Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnology and Plant Protection, Faculty of Sciences, University of Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco; Institute for Advanced Biosciences, CR Inserm U1209, CNRSUMR 5309, University of Grenoble-Alpes, 38000, Grenoble, France; Platform BioPark Archamps, 74160, Archamps, France.
| | - Abdelhafed El Asbahani
- Applied Chemistry and Environment Laboratory, Team of Bio-organic Chemistry and Natural Substances, Faculty of Sciences, University of Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco.
| | - Moulay Abdelmonaim El Hidan
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Valorization of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco.
| | - Michel Bocquet
- Platform BioPark Archamps, 74160, Archamps, France; Apimedia, 74370, Annecy, France
| | | | - Mohamed Ait Hamza
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Valorization of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco.
| | - Abdessamad Elmourid
- Polyvalent Team in Research and Development (EPVRD), Department of Biology & Geology, Polydisciplinary Faculty, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal, 23030, Morocco.
| | - Oulaid Touloun
- Polyvalent Team in Research and Development (EPVRD), Department of Biology & Geology, Polydisciplinary Faculty, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal, 23030, Morocco.
| | - Hassan Boubaker
- Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnology and Plant Protection, Faculty of Sciences, University of Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco.
| | - Philippe Bulet
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, CR Inserm U1209, CNRSUMR 5309, University of Grenoble-Alpes, 38000, Grenoble, France; Platform BioPark Archamps, 74160, Archamps, France.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kini RM, Utkin YN. Molecular Mechanisms of Animal Toxins, Venoms and Antivenoms. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16389. [PMID: 38003582 PMCID: PMC10671026 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
In many animals belonging to different taxa, venoms evolved as a means of defense and/or a means of attack/hunting [...].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. Manjunatha Kini
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117558, Singapore;
| | - Yuri N. Utkin
- Laboratory of Molecular Toxinology, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nasr S, Borges A, Sahyoun C, Nasr R, Roufayel R, Legros C, Sabatier JM, Fajloun Z. Scorpion Venom as a Source of Antimicrobial Peptides: Overview of Biomolecule Separation, Analysis and Characterization Methods. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1380. [PMID: 37760677 PMCID: PMC10525675 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12091380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Scorpion venoms have long captivated scientific researchers, primarily due to the potency and specificity of the mechanism of action of their derived components. Among other molecules, these venoms contain highly active compounds, including antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and ion channel-specific components that selectively target biological receptors with remarkable affinity. Some of these receptors have emerged as prime therapeutic targets for addressing various human pathologies, including cancer and infectious diseases, and have served as models for designing novel drugs. Consequently, extensive biochemical and proteomic investigations have focused on characterizing scorpion venoms. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the key methodologies used in the extraction, purification, analysis, and characterization of AMPs and other bioactive molecules present in scorpion venoms. Noteworthy techniques such as gel electrophoresis, reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, size exclusion chromatography, and "omics" approaches are explored, along with various combinations of methods that enable bioassay-guided venom fractionation. Furthermore, this review presents four adapted proteomic workflows that lead to the comprehensive dissection of the scorpion venom proteome, with an emphasis on AMPs. These workflows differ based on whether the venom is pre-fractionated using separation techniques or is proteolytically digested directly before further proteomic analyses. Since the composition and functionality of scorpion venoms are species-specific, the selection and sequence of the techniques for venom analyses, including these workflows, should be tailored to the specific parameters of the study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Nasr
- Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology (LBA3B), Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and Its Applications, EDST, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (S.N.); (C.S.)
| | - Adolfo Borges
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de Toxinas y Receptores, Instituto de Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas 50587, Venezuela;
- Centro para el Desarrollo de la Investigación Científica, Asunción 1255, Paraguay
| | - Christina Sahyoun
- Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology (LBA3B), Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and Its Applications, EDST, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (S.N.); (C.S.)
- Univ Angers, INSERM, CNRS, MITOVASC, Team 2 CarMe, SFR ICAT, 49000 Angers, France
| | - Riad Nasr
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Public Health 3, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1200, Lebanon;
| | - Rabih Roufayel
- College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Egaila 54200, Kuwait;
| | - Christian Legros
- Univ Angers, INSERM, CNRS, MITOVASC, Team 2 CarMe, SFR ICAT, 49000 Angers, France
| | - Jean-Marc Sabatier
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, INP, Inst Neurophysiopathol, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Ziad Fajloun
- Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology (LBA3B), Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and Its Applications, EDST, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (S.N.); (C.S.)
- Faculty of Sciences 3, Department of Biology, Lebanese University, Campus Michel Slayman Ras Maska, Tripoli 1352, Lebanon
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Torrejón D, Cárdenas J, Juárez D, Espinoza J, Proleón A, Agurto-Arteaga A, Lazo F, Leguía M, Urra FA, Sánchez EF, Chávez-Olortegui C, Vivas-Ruiz DE, Yarlequé A. Comparison of Four Methods of RNA Extraction and cDNA Synthesis from The Venom of Peruvian Snakes of the Genus Bothrops of Clinical Importance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11161. [PMID: 37446341 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241311161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA purification and cDNA synthesis represents the starting point for molecular analyses of snake venom proteins-enzymes. Usually, the sacrifice of snakes is necessary for venom gland extraction to identify protein-coding transcripts; however, the venom can be used as a source of transcripts. Although there are methods for obtaining RNA from venom, no comparative analysis has been conducted in the Bothrops genus. In the present study, we compared four commercial methods for RNA purification and cDNA synthesis from venom (liquid, lyophilized, or long-term storage) of four clinically relevant species of Peruvian Bothrops. Our results show that the TRIzol method presents the highest yield of RNA purified from venom (59 ± 11 ng/100 µL or 10 mg). The SuperScript First-Strand Synthesis System kit produced high amounts of cDNA (3.2 ± 1.2 ng cDNA/ng RNA), and the highest value was from combination with the Dynabeads mRNA DIRECT kit (4.8 ± 2.0 ng cDNA/ng RNA). The utility of cDNA was demonstrated with the amplification of six relevant toxins: thrombin-like enzymes, P-I and P-III metalloproteinases, acid and basic phospholipases A2, and disintegrins. To our knowledge, this is the first comparative study of RNA purification and cDNA synthesis methodologies from Bothrops genus venom.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Torrejón
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Venezuela Cdra 34 S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, Lima Cercado, Lima 15081, Peru
| | - Javier Cárdenas
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional del del Callao, Av. Juan Pablo ΙΙ 306, Bellavista 07011, Peru
| | - Diana Juárez
- Laboratorio de Genómica, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, Av. Universitaria 1801, Campus Principal, San Miguel 15088, Peru
| | - Jordano Espinoza
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Venezuela Cdra 34 S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, Lima Cercado, Lima 15081, Peru
| | - Alex Proleón
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Venezuela Cdra 34 S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, Lima Cercado, Lima 15081, Peru
| | - Andrés Agurto-Arteaga
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Venezuela Cdra 34 S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, Lima Cercado, Lima 15081, Peru
| | - Fanny Lazo
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Venezuela Cdra 34 S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, Lima Cercado, Lima 15081, Peru
| | - Mariana Leguía
- Laboratorio de Genómica, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, Av. Universitaria 1801, Campus Principal, San Miguel 15088, Peru
| | - Félix A Urra
- Laboratorio de Plasticidad Metabólica y Bioenergética, Programa de Farmacología Clínica y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago 8380453, Chile
- Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Av. Independencia 1027, Santiago 7810000, Chile
| | - Eladio F Sánchez
- Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Av. Independencia 1027, Santiago 7810000, Chile
- Research and Development Center, Ezequiel Dias Foundation, Belo Horizonte 30510-010, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Carlos Chávez-Olortegui
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Inmunología, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Dan E Vivas-Ruiz
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Venezuela Cdra 34 S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, Lima Cercado, Lima 15081, Peru
- Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Av. Independencia 1027, Santiago 7810000, Chile
| | - Armando Yarlequé
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Av. Venezuela Cdra 34 S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, Lima Cercado, Lima 15081, Peru
- Network for Snake Venom Research and Drug Discovery, Av. Independencia 1027, Santiago 7810000, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Khourcha S, Hilal I, Elbejjaj I, Karkouri M, Safi A, Hmyene A, Oukkache N. Insight into the Toxicological and Pathophysiological Effects of Moroccan Vipers' Venom: Assessing the Efficacy of Commercial Antivenom for Neutralization. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:302. [PMID: 37368720 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8060302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Morocco is one of the richest countries in biodiversity in the Mediterranean region, especially in its ophidian fauna. In total, there are eight species of venomous snakes, with seven belonging to the Viperidae family, responsible for 67.2% of severe envenomation cases in the country. Cerastes cerastes, Daboia mauritanica and Bitis arietans are considered among the most venomous vipers whose bites cause high levels of morbidity, disability or mortality. Despite their wide distribution in the kingdom, the incidence of these snakebites remains poorly understood and largely underestimated. Moreover, intraspecific variations in the venom composition significantly affect the effectiveness of antivenoms. Due to the unavailability of locally produced antivenoms, we evaluated the efficacy of Inoserp-MENA, the only available antivenom in Morocco, against C. cerastes, D. mauritanica and B. arietans. First, we conducted a comprehensive characterization of these venoms, including an LD50 test to examine their toxicity and SDS-PAGE as a technique to analyze the enzymes responsible for biological activities, such as hemorrhagic and edematous activities and myotoxicity, which generate physiopathological effects in the skin, paws and muscles of envenomed mice. Then, we assessed the ability of Inoserp-MENA antivenom to neutralize the toxic activities of Moroccan vipers. Our results indicate that the venom of C. cerastes, D. mauritanica and B. arietans are toxic, causing severe alterations such as edema, myotoxicity, myonecrosis and significant hemorrhages with the formation of hemorrhagic foci. C. cerastes venom is more dangerous in terms of lethality and hemorrhages, while B. arietans venom is more edematous. The effects of C. cerastes venom were effectively neutralized, but Inoserp-MENA antivenom failed to protect mice against the toxic effects induced by B. arietans and D. mauritanica venom. The study reveals alarming shortcomings in the effectiveness of the current commercially available antivenom's dosage and neutralization capabilities, highlighting the urgent need to develop a region-specific viper envenomation therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soukaina Khourcha
- Laboratory of Venoms and Toxins, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, Casablanca 20360, Morocco
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Environment and Food Technology, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies of Mohammedia, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco
| | - Ines Hilal
- Laboratory of Venoms and Toxins, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, Casablanca 20360, Morocco
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Environment and Food Technology, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies of Mohammedia, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco
| | - Iatimad Elbejjaj
- Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, University Hospital Center Ibn Rochd, Casablanca 20360, Morocco
| | - Mehdi Karkouri
- Laboratory of Pathological Anatomy, University Hospital Center Ibn Rochd, Casablanca 20360, Morocco
| | - Amal Safi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Environment and Food Technology, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies of Mohammedia, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco
| | - Abdelaziz Hmyene
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Environment and Food Technology, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies of Mohammedia, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco
| | - Naoual Oukkache
- Laboratory of Venoms and Toxins, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, Casablanca 20360, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Amorim FG, Redureau D, Crasset T, Freuville L, Baiwir D, Mazzucchelli G, Menzies SK, Casewell NR, Quinton L. Next-Generation Sequencing for Venomics: Application of Multi-Enzymatic Limited Digestion for Inventorying the Snake Venom Arsenal. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:357. [PMID: 37368658 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15060357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
To improve the characterization of snake venom protein profiles, we report the application of a new generation of proteomic methodology to deeply characterize complex protein mixtures. The new approach, combining a synergic multi-enzymatic and a time-limited digestion (MELD), is a versatile and straightforward protocol previously developed by our group. The higher number of overlapping peptides generated during MELD increases the quality of downstream peptide sequencing and of protein identification. In this context, this work aims at applying the MELD strategy to a venomics purpose for the first time, and especially for the characterization of snake venoms. We used four venoms as the test models for this proof of concept: two Elapidae (Dendroaspis polylepis and Naja naja) and two Viperidae (Bitis arietans and Echis ocellatus). Each venom was reduced and alkylated before being submitted to two different protocols: the classical bottom-up proteomics strategy including a digestion step with trypsin only, or MELD, which combines the activities of trypsin, Glu-C and chymotrypsin with a limited digestion approach. The resulting samples were then injected on an M-Class chromatographic system, and hyphenated to a Q-Exactive Mass Spectrometer. Toxins and protein identification were performed by Peaks Studio X+. The results show that MELD considerably improves the number of sequenced (de novo) peptides and identified peptides from protein databases, leading to the unambiguous identification of a greater number of toxins and proteins. For each venom, MELD was successful, not only in terms of the identification of the major toxins (increasing of sequence coverage), but also concerning the less abundant cellular components (identification of new groups of proteins). In light of these results, MELD represents a credible methodology to be applied as the next generation of proteomics approaches dedicated to venomic analysis. It may open new perspectives for the sequencing and inventorying of the venom arsenal and should expand global knowledge about venom composition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Gobbi Amorim
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Damien Redureau
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Thomas Crasset
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Lou Freuville
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Dominique Baiwir
- GIGA Proteomics Facility, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Gabriel Mazzucchelli
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - Stefanie K Menzies
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - Nicholas R Casewell
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - Loïc Quinton
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hilal I, Khourcha S, Safi A, Hmyene A, Asnawi S, Othman I, Stöcklin R, Oukkache N. Comparative Proteomic Analysis of the Venoms from the Most Dangerous Scorpions in Morocco: Androctonus mauritanicus and Buthus occitanus. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13051133. [PMID: 37240778 DOI: 10.3390/life13051133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Morocco is known to harbor two of the world's most dangerous scorpion species: the black Androctonus mauritanicus (Am) and the yellow Buthus occitanus (Bo), responsible for 83% and 14% of severe envenomation cases, respectively. Scorpion venom is a mixture of biological molecules of variable structures and activities, most of which are proteins of low molecular weights referred to as toxins. In addition to toxins, scorpion venoms also contain biogenic amines, polyamines, and enzymes. With the aim of investigating the composition of the Am and Bo venoms, we conducted an analysis of the venoms by mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) after separation by reversed-phase HPLC chromatography. Results from a total of 19 fractions obtained for the Am venom versus 22 fractions for the Bo venom allowed the identification of approximately 410 and 252 molecular masses, respectively. In both venoms, the most abundant toxins were found to range between 2-5 kDa and 6-8 kDa. This proteomic analysis not only allowed the drawing of an extensive mass fingerprint of the Androctonus mauritanicus and Buthus occitanus venoms but also provided a better insight into the nature of their toxins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ines Hilal
- Laboratory of Venoms and Toxins, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, Casablanca 20360, Morocco
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Environment and Food Technology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Mohammedia, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco
| | - Soukaina Khourcha
- Laboratory of Venoms and Toxins, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, Casablanca 20360, Morocco
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Environment and Food Technology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Mohammedia, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco
| | - Amal Safi
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Environment and Food Technology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Mohammedia, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco
| | - Abdelaziz Hmyene
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Environment and Food Technology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Mohammedia, Mohammedia 20650, Morocco
| | - Syafiq Asnawi
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia
| | - Iekhsan Othman
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Bandar Sunway 47500, Malaysia
| | - Reto Stöcklin
- Atheris Laboratories, Case Postale 314, CH-1233 Bernex, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Naoual Oukkache
- Laboratory of Venoms and Toxins, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, Casablanca 20360, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
The deleterious consequences of snake envenomation are due to the extreme protein complexity of snake venoms. Therefore, the identification of their components is crucial for understanding the clinical manifestations of envenomation pathophysiology and for the development of effective antivenoms. In addition, snake venoms are considered as libraries of bioactive molecules that can be used to develop innovative drugs. Numerous separation and analytical techniques are combined to study snake venom composition including chromatographic techniques such as size exclusion and RP-HPLC and electrophoretic techniques. Herein, we present in detail these existing techniques and their applications in snake venom research. In the first part, we discuss the different possible technical combinations that could be used to isolate and purify SV proteins using what is known as bioassay-guided fractionation. In the second part, we describe four different proteomic strategies that could be applied for venomics studies to evaluate whole venom composition, including the mostly used technique: RP-HPLC. Eventually, we show that to date, there is no standard technique used for the separation of all snake venoms. Thus, different combinations might be developed, taking into consideration the main objective of the study, the available resources, and the properties of the target molecules to be isolated.
Collapse
|
13
|
Pai S, Hebbar A, Selvaraj S. A critical look at challenges and future scopes of bioactive compounds and their incorporations in the food, energy, and pharmaceutical sector. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:35518-35541. [PMID: 35233673 PMCID: PMC9079019 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-19423-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Bioactive compounds refer to secondary metabolites extracted from plants, fungi, microbes, or animals. Besides having pharmacological or toxicological effects on organisms leading to utilization in food and pharmaceutical industries, the discovery of novel properties of such compounds has led to the diversification of their applications, ranging from cosmetics and functionalized biomaterials to bioremediation and alternate fuels. Conventional time-consuming and solvent-intensive methods of extraction are increasingly being replaced by green solvents such as ionic liquids, supercritical fluids, and deep eutectic solvents, as well as non-conventional methods of extraction assisted by microwaves, pulse electric fields, enzymes, ultrasound, or pressure. These methods, along with advances in characterization and optimization strategies, have boosted the commercial viability of extraction especially from agrowastes and organic residues, promoting a sustainable circular economy. Further development of microfluidics, optimization models, nanoencapsulation, and metabolic engineering are expected to overcome certain limitations that restrict the growth of this field, in the context of improving screening, extraction, and economy of processes, as well as retaining biodiversity and enhancing the stability and functionality of such compounds. This review is a compilation of the various extraction and characterization methods employed for bioactive compounds and covers major applications in food, pharmacy, chemicals, energy, and bioremediation. Major limitations and scope of improvement are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanidhya Pai
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Akshatha Hebbar
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Subbalaxmi Selvaraj
- Department of Biotechnology, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, 576104, India.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Damm M, Hempel BF, Süssmuth RD. Old World Vipers-A Review about Snake Venom Proteomics of Viperinae and Their Variations. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13060427. [PMID: 34204565 PMCID: PMC8235416 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13060427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fine-tuned by millions of years of evolution, snake venoms have frightened but also fascinated humanity and nowadays they constitute potential resources for drug development, therapeutics and antivenoms. The continuous progress of mass spectrometry techniques and latest advances in proteomics workflows enabled toxinologists to decipher venoms by modern omics technologies, so-called ‘venomics’. A tremendous upsurge reporting on snake venom proteomes could be observed. Within this review we focus on the highly venomous and widely distributed subfamily of Viperinae (Serpentes: Viperidae). A detailed public literature database search was performed (2003–2020) and we extensively reviewed all compositional venom studies of the so-called Old-World Vipers. In total, 54 studies resulted in 89 venom proteomes. The Viperinae venoms are dominated by four major, four secondary, six minor and several rare toxin families and peptides, respectively. The multitude of different venomics approaches complicates the comparison of venom composition datasets and therefore we differentiated between non-quantitative and three groups of quantitative workflows. The resulting direct comparisons within these groups show remarkable differences on the intra- and interspecies level across genera with a focus on regional differences. In summary, the present compilation is the first comprehensive up-to-date database on Viperinae venom proteomes and differentiating between analytical methods and workflows.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maik Damm
- Department of Chemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Benjamin-Florian Hempel
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, (BCRT), 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Roderich D. Süssmuth
- Department of Chemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, Germany;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-(0)30-314-24205
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
Proteomics, the large-scale study of all proteins of an organism or system, is a powerful tool for studying biological systems. It can provide a holistic view of the physiological and biochemical states of given samples through identification and quantification of large numbers of peptides and proteins. In forensic science, proteomics can be used as a confirmatory and orthogonal technique for well-built genomic analyses. Proteomics is highly valuable in cases where nucleic acids are absent or degraded, such as hair and bone samples. It can be used to identify body fluids, ethnic group, gender, individual, and estimate post-mortem interval using bone, muscle, and decomposition fluid samples. Compared to genomic analysis, proteomics can provide a better global picture of a sample. It has been used in forensic science for a wide range of sample types and applications. In this review, we briefly introduce proteomic methods, including sample preparation techniques, data acquisition using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and data analysis using database search, spectral library search, and de novo sequencing. We also summarize recent applications in the past decade of proteomics in forensic science with a special focus on human samples, including hair, bone, body fluids, fingernail, muscle, brain, and fingermark, and address the challenges, considerations, and future developments of forensic proteomics.
Collapse
|