1
|
Lee KS, Kim BY, Kim YH, Choi YS, Jin BR. Identification of waprin and its microbicidal activity: A novel protein component of honeybee (Apis mellifera) venom. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2023; 266:109561. [PMID: 36738900 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2023.109561] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Bee venom is a rich source of biologically and pharmacologically active proteins. Waprin is a protein component of venoms; however, waprin has yet to be identified in bee venom. Moreover, the biological functions of waprin in venoms remain poorly characterized. Thus, in this study, we have identified and characterized waprin: a novel protein component from the venom of honeybees (Apis mellifera). The waprin in A. mellifera venom (Amwaprin) was found to consist of an 80-amino acid mature peptide, in which the whey acidic protein domain contains four conserved disulfide bonds. We discovered the presence of the Amwaprin protein in secreted venom by using an antibody against recombinant Amwaprin produced in baculovirus-infected insect cells. Recombinant Amwaprin exhibited inhibitory activity against microbial serine proteases and elastases but not thrombin or plasmin. It recognized carbohydrates in the microbial cell wall molecules and bound to the live microbial surfaces. The binding action of Amwaprin produced its microbicidal activity by inducing structural damage to bacterial and fungal cell walls. In addition, recombinant Amwaprin is heat-stable and contains no hemolytic activity. These findings demonstrate that Amwaprin acts as a microbicidal and anti-elastolytic agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kwang Sik Lee
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Yeon Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Hui Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Soo Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Rae Jin
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kim BY, Kim YH, Park MJ, Yoon HJ, Lee KY, Kim HK, Lee KS, Jin BR. Dual function of a bumblebee (Bombus ignitus) serine protease inhibitor that acts as a microbicidal peptide and anti-fibrinolytic venom toxin. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 135:104478. [PMID: 35716829 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2022.104478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
In bee venoms, low-molecular-weight peptides, including serine protease inhibitors (SPIs), exhibit multifunctional activities. Although SPIs in bee venoms are relatively well known, those that function in both the body and secreted venom of bees are not well-characterized. In this study, we identified a bumblebee (Bombus ignitus) SPI (BiSPI) that displays microbicidal and anti-fibrinolytic activities. BiSPI was found to consist of a trypsin inhibitor-like domain containing a P1 site and ten cysteine residues. We observed that the BiSPI gene was ubiquitously transcribed in the body, including the venom glands. In correlation, the BiSPI protein was detected both in the body and secreted venom by using an antibody against a recombinant BiSPI peptide produced in baculovirus-infected insect cells. Recombinant BiSPI exhibited inhibitory activity against trypsin but not chymotrypsin and inhibited microbial serine proteases and plasmin but not elastase or thrombin. Moreover, recombinant BiSPI recognized carbohydrates and bound to fungi and gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. Consistent with these properties, recombinant BiSPI exhibited microbicidal activities against bacteria and fungi through induction of structural damage by binding to the microbial surfaces. Additionally, recombinant BiSPI inhibited the plasmin-mediated degradation of human fibrin and was thus concluded to exhibit anti-fibrinolytic activity. Moreover, the peptide showed no effect on hemolysis. These findings demonstrate the dual function of BiSPI, which acts as a microbicidal peptide and anti-fibrinolytic venom toxin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yeon Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Yun Hui Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Ji Park
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Joo Yoon
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju, 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong Yong Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju, 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Kyung Kim
- Department of Industrial Entomology, Korea National College of Agriculture and Fisheries, Jeonju, 54874, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Sik Lee
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea.
| | - Byung Rae Jin
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 49315, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kim BY, Lee KS, Lee KY, Yoon HJ, Jin BR. Anti-fibrinolytic activity of a metalloprotease inhibitor from bumblebee (Bombus ignitus) venom. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2021; 245:109042. [PMID: 33838314 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2021.109042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Bee venom is a mixture of bioactive components that include proteases and protease inhibitors. A metalloprotease inhibitor has been predicted to be a bumblebee-specific toxin in the venom proteome of Bombus terrestris; however, the identification and functional roles of bee venom metalloprotease inhibitors have not been previously determined. In this study, we identified a bumblebee (B. ignitus) venom metalloprotease inhibitor (BiVMPI) that exhibits anti-fibrinolytic activity. BiVMPI contains a trypsin inhibitor-like cysteine-rich domain that exhibits similarity to inducible metalloprotease inhibitor. Using an anti-BiVMPI antibody raised against a recombinant BiVMPI protein produced in baculovirus-infected insect cells, the presence of BiVMPI in the venom gland and secreted venom of B. ignitus worker bees was confirmed. The recombinant BiVMPI protein demonstrated inhibitory activity against a metalloprotease, trypsin, chymotrypsin, protease K, and plasmin, but not subtilisin A, elastase, or thrombin. Additionally, the recombinant BiVMPI bound to plasmin and inhibited the plasmin-mediated degradation of fibrin, demonstrating an anti-fibrinolytic role for BiVMPI as a bee venom metalloprotease inhibitor. Our results provide the first evidence for the identification and anti-fibrinolytic activity of a metalloprotease inhibitor from bee venom.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yeon Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Sik Lee
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong Yong Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Joo Yoon
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea.
| | - Byung Rae Jin
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lipolytic Activity of a Carboxylesterase from Bumblebee ( Bombus ignitus) Venom. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13040239. [PMID: 33810599 PMCID: PMC8065460 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13040239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Bee venom is a complex mixture composed of peptides, proteins with enzymatic properties, and low-molecular-weight compounds. Although the carboxylesterase in bee venom has been identified as an allergen, the enzyme's role as a venom component has not been previously elucidated. Here, we show the lipolytic activity of a bumblebee (Bombus ignitus) venom carboxylesterase (BivCaE). The presence of BivCaE in the venom secreted by B. ignitus worker bees was confirmed using an anti-BivCaE antibody raised against a recombinant BivCaE protein produced in baculovirus-infected insect cells. The enzymatic activity of the recombinant BivCaE protein was optimal at 40 °C and pH 8.5. Recombinant BivCaE protein degrades triglycerides and exhibits high lipolytic activity toward long-chain triglycerides, defining the role of BivCaE as a lipolytic agent. Bee venom phospholipase A2 binds to mammalian cells and induces apoptosis, whereas BivCaE does not affect mammalian cells. Collectively, our data demonstrate that BivCaE functions as a lipolytic agent in bee venom, suggesting that BivCaE will be involved in distributing the venom via degradation of blood triglycerides.
Collapse
|
5
|
Yang H, Liu Y, Ning Y, Wang C, Zhang X, Weng P, Wu Z. Characterization of an Intracellular Alkaline Serine Protease from Bacillus velezensis SW5 with Fibrinolytic Activity. Curr Microbiol 2020; 77:1610-1621. [PMID: 32274531 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-020-01977-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
ISP-SW5 is an intracellular alkaline serine protease gene from Bacillus velezensis SW5 that was heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3). Sequence analysis indicated that the ISP-SW5 gene has 960 bp open reading frame and encodes a protein of 319 amino acid residues. Three-dimensional structure of ISP-SW5 with the fibrinolytic activity from Bacillus velezensis was predicted by in silico analysis. Gly219 was the most likely active site for the fibrinolytic activity of ISP-SW5. The recombinant enzyme ISP-SW5 was purified by Ni-NTA Superflow Column. SDS-PAGE showed that this enzyme had a molecular mass of 34 kDa. The result of native-PAGE and N-terminal sequencing showed that the N-terminal propeptide of ISP-SW5 was cleaved during the maturation of protease. The optimum pH and temperature were 8.0 and 40 °C, respectively. Enzyme activity was markedly inhibited by PMSF and EDTA but enhanced by 5 mM Ca2+ and 2 mM Zn2+ by up to 143% and 115%, respectively. Additionally, ISP-SW5 retained 93%, 78%, and 49% relative enzyme activity after incubation with 0.5 M, 1 M and 2 M NaCl, respectively, at 4 °C for 12 h. The enzyme activity determined by casein as substrate was 1261 U/mg. ISP-SW5 could degrade fibrin at an activity of 3428 U/mg, and its properties reflect its potential application in developing a novel biological catalyst for efficient fibrin hydrolysis in medical treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haining Yang
- Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Liu
- Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Quality Standards and Testing Technology for Agro-Products, Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Fuzhou, 350003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuchang Ning
- Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, People's Republic of China.,Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, School of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Animal Husbandry and Economy, Zhengzhou, 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Changyu Wang
- Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, People's Republic of China
| | - Peifang Weng
- Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, People's Republic of China
| | - Zufang Wu
- Laboratory of Food Biotechnology, College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315832, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Park HG, Lee KS, Kim BY, Yoon HJ, Choi YS, Lee KY, Wan H, Li J, Jin BR. Honeybee (Apis cerana) vitellogenin acts as an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent in the body and venom. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 85:51-60. [PMID: 29621531 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2018] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Honeybee (Apis mellifera) egg-yolk protein vitellogenin (Vg) plays roles in immunity, antioxidation, and life span beyond reproduction, but it also acts as an allergen Api m 12 in venom. Here we established antimicrobial and antioxidant roles of honeybee Vg in the body and venom. Using the cDNA encoding Vg identified from Asiatic honeybee (A. cerana) workers, recombinant A. cerana Vg (AcVg) protein of approximately 180 kDa was produced in baculovirus-infected insect cells. In A. cerana worker bees, AcVg was expressed in the fat body and venom gland and was present in the secreted venom. AcVg induced structural damage in microbial cell walls via binding to microbial surfaces and exhibited antimicrobial activity against bacteria and fungi. AcVg protected mammalian and insect cells against oxidative damage through direct shielding of cell membranes. Interestingly, AcVg exhibited DNA protection activity against reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, the transcript level of AcVg was upregulated in the fat body, but not in the venom gland, of worker bees with antimicrobial peptides and antioxidant enzymes in response to microbial infection and oxidative stress. Our data indicate that AcVg is involved in innate immunity upon infection and in a defense system against ROS, supporting a crucial role of honeybee Vg as an antimicrobial and antioxidant agent in the body and venom.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hee Geun Park
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Sik Lee
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Yeon Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Joo Yoon
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju, 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Soo Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju, 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyeong Yong Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju, 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Hu Wan
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, PR China
| | - Jianhong Li
- College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, PR China
| | - Byung Rae Jin
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, 604-714, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Proteomic Characterization of the Venom of Five Bombus (Thoracobombus) Species. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:toxins9110362. [PMID: 29137123 PMCID: PMC5705977 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9110362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Venomous animals use venom, a complex biofluid composed of unique mixtures of proteins and peptides, to act on vital systems of the prey or predator. In bees, venom is solely used for defense against predators. However, the venom composition of bumble bees (Bombus sp.) is largely unknown. The Thoracobombus subgenus of Bombus sp. is a diverse subgenus represented by 14 members across Turkey. In this study, we sought out to proteomically characterize the venom of five Thoracobombus species by using bottom-up proteomic techniques. We have obtained two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel (2D-PAGE) images of each species’ venom sample. We have subsequently identified the protein spots by using matrix assisted laser desorption ionization/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). We have identified 47 proteins for Bombus humilis, 32 for B. pascuorum, 60 for B. ruderarius, 39 for B. sylvarum, and 35 for B. zonatus. Moreover, we illustrated that intensities of 2DE protein spots corresponding to putative venom toxins vary in a species-specific manner. Our analyses provide the primary proteomic characterization of five bumble bee species’ venom composition.
Collapse
|
8
|
Yang J, Lee KS, Kim BY, Choi YS, Yoon HJ, Jia J, Jin BR. Anti-fibrinolytic and anti-microbial activities of a serine protease inhibitor from honeybee (Apis cerana) venom. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2017; 201:11-18. [PMID: 28917645 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Bee venom contains a variety of peptide constituents, including low-molecular-weight protease inhibitors. While the putative low-molecular-weight serine protease inhibitor Api m 6 containing a trypsin inhibitor-like cysteine-rich domain was identified from honeybee (Apis mellifera) venom, no anti-fibrinolytic or anti-microbial roles for this inhibitor have been elucidated. In this study, we identified an Asiatic honeybee (A. cerana) venom serine protease inhibitor (AcVSPI) that was shown to act as a microbial serine protease inhibitor and plasmin inhibitor. AcVSPI was found to consist of a trypsin inhibitor-like domain that displays ten cysteine residues. Interestingly, the AcVSPI peptide sequence exhibited high similarity to the putative low-molecular-weight serine protease inhibitor Api m 6, which suggests that AcVSPI is an allergen Api m 6-like peptide. Recombinant AcVSPI was expressed in baculovirus-infected insect cells, and it demonstrated inhibitory activity against trypsin, but not chymotrypsin. Additionally, AcVSPI has inhibitory effects against plasmin and microbial serine proteases; however, it does not have any detectable inhibitory effects on thrombin or elastase. Consistent with these inhibitory effects, AcVSPI inhibited the plasmin-mediated degradation of fibrin to fibrin degradation products. AcVSPI also bound to bacterial and fungal surfaces and exhibited anti-microbial activity against fungi as well as gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. These findings demonstrate the anti-fibrinolytic and anti-microbial roles of AcVSPI as a serine protease inhibitor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yang
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea; Joint Laboratory Between Dong-A University and Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Kwang Sik Lee
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Yeon Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Soo Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Joo Yoon
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Jingming Jia
- Joint Laboratory Between Dong-A University and Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Byung Rae Jin
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea; Joint Laboratory Between Dong-A University and Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lee KS, Kim BY, Yoon HJ, Choi YS, Jin BR. Secapin, a bee venom peptide, exhibits anti-fibrinolytic, anti-elastolytic, and anti-microbial activities. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 63:27-35. [PMID: 27208884 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2016.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2016] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Bee venom contains a variety of peptide constituents that have various biological, toxicological, and pharmacological actions. However, the biological actions of secapin, a venom peptide in bee venom, remain largely unknown. Here, we provide the evidence that Asiatic honeybee (Apis cerana) secapin (AcSecapin-1) exhibits anti-fibrinolytic, anti-elastolytic, and anti-microbial activities. The recombinant mature AcSecapin-1 peptide was expressed in baculovirus-infected insect cells. AcSecapin-1 functions as a serine protease inhibitor-like peptide that has inhibitory effects against plasmin, elastases, microbial serine proteases, trypsin, and chymotrypsin. Consistent with these functions, AcSecapin-1 inhibited the plasmin-mediated degradation of fibrin to fibrin degradation products, thus indicating the role of AcSecapin-1 as an anti-fibrinolytic agent. AcSecapin-1 also inhibited both human neutrophil and porcine pancreatic elastases. Furthermore, AcSecapin-1 bound to bacterial and fungal surfaces and exhibited anti-microbial activity against fungi and gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Taken together, our data demonstrated that the bee venom peptide secapin has multifunctional roles as an anti-fibrinolytic agent during fibrinolysis and an anti-microbial agent in the innate immune response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kwang Sik Lee
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Yeon Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Joo Yoon
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Soo Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Wanju 55365, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Rae Jin
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Silva MF, Mota CM, Miranda VDS, Cunha ADO, Silva MC, Naves KSC, de Oliveira F, Silva DADO, Mineo TWP, Santiago FM. Biological and Enzymatic Characterization of Proteases from Crude Venom of the Ant Odontomachus bauri. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 7:5114-28. [PMID: 26633501 PMCID: PMC4690119 DOI: 10.3390/toxins7124869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Hymenoptera venoms constitute an interesting source of natural toxins that may lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents. The present study investigated the enzymatic and biological characteristics of the crude venom of the ant Odontomachus bauri. Its crude venom presents several protein bands, with higher staining for six proteins with gelatinolytic activity (17, 20, 26, 29, 43 and 48 kDa). The crude venom showed high proteolytic activity on azocasein at optimal pH 8.0 and 37 °C. In the presence of protease inhibitors as aprotinin, leupeptin and EDTA, the azocaseinolytic activity was reduced by 45%, 29% and 9%, respectively, suggesting that the enzymes present in the crude venom belong to the three classes of proteases, with the serine proteases in greater intensity. The crude venom degraded the fibrinogen α-chain faster than the β-chain, while the fibrinogen γ-chain remained unchanged. In biological assays, O. bauri venom showed hemolytic and coagulant activity in vitro, and defibrinating activity in vivo. In addition, the venom showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli as well as antiparasitic activity on Toxoplasma gondii infection in vitro. In that sense, this study sheds perspectives for pharmacological applications of O. bauri venom enzymes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Ferreira Silva
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Caroline Martins Mota
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Vanessa dos Santos Miranda
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Amanda de Oliveira Cunha
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Maraísa Cristina Silva
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Karinne Spirandelli Carvalho Naves
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Clinical Bacteriology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Fábio de Oliveira
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Biophysics, Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
- National Institute in Science and Technology in Nanobiopharmaceutics (NanoBiofar), Belo Horizonte-MG 31270-901, Brazil.
| | - Deise Aparecida de Oliveira Silva
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Tiago Wilson Patriarca Mineo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| | - Fernanda Maria Santiago
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Laboratory of Immunoparasitology "Dr. Mario Endsfeldz Camargo", Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, Uberlândia 38400-902, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Van Vaerenbergh M, Debyser G, Smagghe G, Devreese B, de Graaf DC. Unraveling the venom proteome of the bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) by integrating a combinatorial peptide ligand library approach with FT-ICR MS. Toxicon 2015; 102:81-8. [PMID: 26071081 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Revised: 09/12/2013] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Within the Apidae, the largest family of bees with over 5600 described species, the honeybee is the sole species with a well studied venom proteome. So far, only little research has focused on bumblebee venom. Recently, the genome sequence of the European large earth bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) became available and this allowed the first in-depth proteomic analysis of its venom composition. We identified 57 compounds, with 52 of them never described in bumblebee venom. Remarkably, 72% of the detected compounds were found to have a honeybee venom homolog, which reflects the similar defensive function of both venoms and the high degree of homology between both genomes. However, both venoms contain a selection of species-specific toxins, revealing distinct damaging effects that may have evolved in response to species-specific attackers. Further, this study extends the list of potential venom allergens. The availability of both the honeybee and bumblebee venom proteome may help to develop a strategy that solves the current issue of false double sensitivity in allergy diagnosis, which is caused by cross-reactivity between both venoms. A correct diagnosis is important as it is recommended to perform an immunotherapy with venom of the culprit species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Griet Debyser
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Laboratory of Agrozoology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Bart Devreese
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281, S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kim BY, Jin BR. Apolipophorin III from honeybees (Apis cerana) exhibits antibacterial activity. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2015; 182:6-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2014.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Revised: 11/28/2014] [Accepted: 11/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
13
|
Park HG, Kyung SS, Lee KS, Kim BY, Choi YS, Yoon HJ, Kwon HW, Je YH, Jin BR. Dual function of a bee (Apis cerana) inhibitor cysteine knot peptide that acts as an antifungal peptide and insecticidal venom toxin. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2014; 47:247-53. [PMID: 25106915 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2014.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2014] [Revised: 07/31/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Inhibitor cysteine knot (ICK) peptides exhibit ion channel blocking, insecticidal, and antimicrobial activities, but currently, no functional roles for bee-derived ICK peptides have been identified. In this study, a bee (Apis cerana) ICK peptide (AcICK) that acts as an antifungal peptide and as an insecticidal venom toxin was identified. AcICK contains an ICK fold that is expressed in the epidermis, fat body, or venom gland and is present as a 6.6-kDa peptide in bee venom. Recombinant AcICK peptide (expressed in baculovirus-infected insect cells) bound directly to Beauveria bassiana and Fusarium graminearum, but not to Escherichia coli or Bacillus thuringiensis. Consistent with these findings, AcICK showed antifungal activity, indicating that AcICK acts as an antifungal peptide. Furthermore, AcICK expression is induced in the fat body and epidermis after injection with B. bassiana. These results provide insight into the role of AcICK during the innate immune response following fungal infection. Additionally, we show that AcICK has insecticidal activity. Our results demonstrate a functional role for AcICK in bees: AcICK acts as an antifungal peptide in innate immune reactions in the body and as an insecticidal toxin in venom. The finding that the AcICK peptide functions with different mechanisms of action in the body and in venom highlights the two-pronged strategy that is possible with the bee ICK peptide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hee Geun Park
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Su Kyung
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Sik Lee
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Yeon Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Soo Choi
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Joo Yoon
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Wook Kwon
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon Ho Je
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Byung Rae Jin
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhao C, Ju J. Molecular cloning, expression, and anti-tumor activity of a novel serine protease from Arenicola cristata. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2014; 46:450-9. [PMID: 24709333 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmu020] [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] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Arenicola cristata, a marine annelid, is a well-known and prized traditional Chinese medicine. However, the serine protease gene of A. cristata has not been cloned yet. In this study, a novel protease of A. cristata was cloned, sequenced, and expressed in Escherichia coli, and the functions of this recombinant protease were also investigated. The whole complementary DNA (cDNA) of this novel protease was of 980 bp in length and consisted of an open reading frame of 861 bp encoding 286 aa. Sequence analysis of the deduced amino acid sequence revealed that the protease belongs to the serine protease family. The active enzyme of the proposed A. cristata protease is composed of a signal peptide, a propeptide, and a mature polypeptide. The molecular weight of the recombinant mature protein was ~26 kDa after over-expression in E. coli. The recombinant protein significantly inhibited cell growth and induced cell apoptosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in vitro, and reduced tumorigenicity in vivo. Furthermore, administration of the recombinant protein led to the activation of caspase-9 as well as down-regulation of Mcl-1 and Bcl-2. Taken together, our findings indicated that the recombinant serine protease of A. cristata could inhibit ESCC cell growth by mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and might act as a potential pharmacological agent for ESCC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunling Zhao
- College of Pharmacy and Biological Science, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Jiyu Ju
- College of Basic Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sudhakar GRL, Vincent SGP. Purification and characterization of a novel C-type hemolytic lectin for clot lysis from the fresh water clam Villorita cyprinoides: a possible natural thrombolytic agent against myocardial infarction. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2014; 36:367-373. [PMID: 24368223 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2013.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2013] [Revised: 12/02/2013] [Accepted: 12/07/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Villorita cyprinoides (black clam) is a fresh water clam that belongs as a bivalve to the group of mollusc. The saline extracts from the muscle reveal high titers of agglutination potency on trypsin-treated rabbit erythrocytes. With the help of affinity chromatography a hemolytic protein with lectin activity which could all be inhibited by D-galactose were isolated. The lectins were separated on DEAE-cellulose and the main component was purified after an additional step of gel filtration on sephadex G-75. The main component is a non-glycosylated protein with a molecular weight of 96,560 Da determined by MALDI-ToF, consisting of a single protein chain and characterized by the lack of polymers and intermediate disulfide bonds. The pure main lectin with clot lytic feature shows two bands at molecular weights 36,360 and 26, 520 Da. Optimal inhibition of the pure lectin is achieved by D-galactose containing oligo- and polysaccharides. The lectin activity decreased above 40 °C and was lost at 62 °C, the stability over the pH range between 7.0 and 8.0 and requires divalent cations for their activity. The novel C-type hemolytic lectin for clot lysis from the clam Villorita cyprinoides was identified and evaluated, the purified hemolytic lectin (0.35 mg/ml and 0.175 mg/ml) enhanced clot lysis activity when compared to the different concentration (5 mg/ml and 1 mg/ml) of commercial streptokinase. In the present study identified hemolytic lectin was a rapid and effective clot lytic molecule and could be developed as new drug molecule in future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G R Learnal Sudhakar
- International Centre for Nanobiotechnology (ICN), CMST Campus, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Rajakkamanagalam, Kanyakumari Dist., 629502 TN, India; Xpression Biotek (Pvt) Ltd., Marthandam, Kanyakumari Dist., TN, India.
| | - S G Prakash Vincent
- International Centre for Nanobiotechnology (ICN), CMST Campus, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Rajakkamanagalam, Kanyakumari Dist., 629502 TN, India.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
A bumblebee (Bombus ignitus) venom serine protease inhibitor that acts as a microbial serine protease inhibitor. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2014; 167:59-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2013.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2013] [Revised: 10/14/2013] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
|
17
|
Kim BY, Lee KS, Zou FM, Wan H, Choi YS, Yoon HJ, Kwon HW, Je YH, Jin BR. Antimicrobial activity of a honeybee (Apis cerana) venom Kazal-type serine protease inhibitor. Toxicon 2013; 76:110-7. [PMID: 24076031 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2013] [Revised: 09/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Insect-derived Kazal-type serine protease inhibitors exhibit thrombin, elastase, plasmin, proteinase K, or subtilisin A inhibition activity, but so far, no functional roles for bee-derived Kazal-type serine protease inhibitors have been identified. In this study, a bee (Apis cerana) venom Kazal-type serine protease inhibitor (AcKTSPI) that acts as a microbial serine protease inhibitor was identified. AcKTSPI contained a single Kazal domain that displayed six conserved cysteine residues and a P1 threonine residue. AcKTSPI was expressed in the venom gland and was present as a 10-kDa peptide in bee venom. Recombinant AcKTSPI Kazal domain (AcKTSPI-Kd) expressed in baculovirus-infected insect cells demonstrated inhibitory activity against subtilisin A (Ki 67.03 nM) and proteinase K (Ki 91.53 nM), but not against α-chymotrypsin or trypsin, which implies a role for AcKTSPI as a microbial serine protease inhibitor. However, AcKTSPI-Kd exhibited no detectable inhibitory effects on factor Xa, thrombin, tissue plasminogen activator, or elastase. Additionally, AcKTSPI-Kd bound directly to Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus thuringiensis, Beauveria bassiana, and Fusarium graminearum but not to Escherichia coli. Consistent with these findings, AcKTSPI-Kd showed antibacterial activity against Gram-positive bacteria and antifungal activity against both plant-pathogenic and entomopathogenic fungi. These findings constitute molecular evidence that AcKTSPI acts as an inhibitor of microbial serine proteases. This paper provides a novel view of the antimicrobial functions of a bee venom Kazal-type serine protease inhibitor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yeon Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wan H, Lee KS, Kim BY, Yuan M, Zhan S, You H, Li J, Jin BR. A spider (Araneus ventricosus) chymotrypsin inhibitor that acts as an elastase inhibitor and a microbial serine protease inhibitor. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2013; 165:36-41. [PMID: 23499942 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2013.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2013] [Revised: 03/05/2013] [Accepted: 03/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Spider-derived Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors have been shown to exhibit plasmin and elastase inhibition activity and potassium channel blocking activity, but thus far, no additional roles for spider-derived chymotrypsin inhibitors have been elucidated. In this study, a spider (Araneus ventricosus) chymotrypsin inhibitor (AvCI) that acts as an elastase inhibitor and a microbial serine protease inhibitor was identified. AvCI is a 70-amino acid mature peptide that displays eight conserved cysteine residues and a P1 lysine residue. Recombinant AvCI expressed in baculovirus-infected insect cells demonstrated inhibitory activity against chymotrypsin (Ki 49.85 nM), but not trypsin, which defines a role for AvCI as a spider-derived chymotrypsin inhibitor. AvCI also exhibited inhibitory activity against microbial serine proteases such as subtilisin A (Ki 20.51 nM) and proteinase K (Ki 65.42 nM). Furthermore, AvCI exhibited no detectable inhibitory effects on factor Xa, thrombin, tissue plasminogen activator, or plasmin; however, AvCI strongly inhibited human neutrophil elastase (Ki 8.74 nM) and porcine pancreatic elastase (Ki 11.32 nM), indicating that AvCI acts as an anti-elastolytic factor. These findings constitute molecular evidence that AvCI acts as an inhibitor against chymotrypsin, microbial serine proteases, and elastases. This paper provides a novel view of the functions of a spider-derived chymotrypsin inhibitor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hu Wan
- Department of Plant Protection, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wan H, Lee KS, Kim BY, Zou FM, Yoon HJ, Je YH, Li J, Jin BR. A spider-derived Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor that acts as a plasmin inhibitor and an elastase inhibitor. PLoS One 2013; 8:e53343. [PMID: 23308198 PMCID: PMC3537671 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0053343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors are involved in various physiological processes, such as ion channel blocking, blood coagulation, fibrinolysis, and inflammation. While spider-derived Kunitz-type proteins show activity in trypsin or chymotrypsin inhibition and K+ channel blocking, no additional role for these proteins has been elucidated. In this study, we identified the first spider (Araneus ventricosus) Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor (AvKTI) that acts as a plasmin inhibitor and an elastase inhibitor. AvKTI possesses a Kunitz domain consisting of a 57-amino-acid mature peptide that displays features consistent with Kunitz-type inhibitors, including six conserved cysteine residues and a P1 lysine residue. Recombinant AvKTI, expressed in baculovirus-infected insect cells, showed a dual inhibitory activity against trypsin (Ki 7.34 nM) and chymotrypsin (Ki 37.75 nM), defining a role for AvKTI as a spider-derived Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor. Additionally, AvKTI showed no detectable inhibitory effects on factor Xa, thrombin, or tissue plasminogen activator; however, AvKTI inhibited plasmin (Ki 4.89 nM) and neutrophil elastase (Ki 169.07 nM), indicating that it acts as an antifibrinolytic factor and an antielastolytic factor. These findings constitute molecular evidence that AvKTI acts as a plasmin inhibitor and an elastase inhibitor and also provide a novel view of the functions of a spider-derived Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hu Wan
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Sik Lee
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo Yeon Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Feng Ming Zou
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung Joo Yoon
- Department of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon Ho Je
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jianhong Li
- Department of Plant Protection, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Byung Rae Jin
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Kim BY, Lee KS, Wan H, Zou FM, Choi YS, Yoon HJ, Kwon HW, Je YH, Jin BR. Anti-elastolytic activity of a honeybee (Apis cerana) chymotrypsin inhibitor. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2012. [PMID: 23200835 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2012.11.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The honeybee is an important insect species in global ecology, agriculture, and alternative medicine. While chymotrypsin and trypsin inhibitors from bees show activity against cathepsin G and plasmin, respectively, no anti-elastolytic role for these inhibitors has been elucidated. In this study, we identified an Asiatic honeybee (Apis cerana) chymotrypsin inhibitor (AcCI), which was shown to also act as an elastase inhibitor. AcCI was found to consist of a 65-amino acid mature peptide that displays ten cysteine residues. When expressed in baculovirus-infected insect cells, recombinant AcCI demonstrated inhibitory activity against chymotrypsin (K(i) 11.27 nM), but not trypsin, defining a role for AcCI as a honeybee-derived chymotrypsin inhibitor. Additionally, AcCI showed no detectable inhibitory effects on factor Xa, thrombin, plasmin, or tissue plasminogen activator; however, AcCI inhibited human neutrophil elastase (K(i) 61.05 nM), indicating that it acts as an anti-elastolytic factor. These findings constitute molecular evidence that AcCI acts as a chymotrypsin/elastase inhibitor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yeon Kim
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Qiu Y, Lee KS, Choo YM, Kong D, Yoon HJ, Jin BR. Molecular cloning and antifibrinolytic activity of a serine protease inhibitor from bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) venom. Toxicon 2012; 63:1-6. [PMID: 23164714 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2012.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2012] [Revised: 09/08/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Bumblebee (Bombus spp.) venom contains a variety of components, including bombolitin, phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)), serine proteases, and serine protease inhibitors. In this study, we identified a bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) venom serine protease inhibitor (Bt-KTI) that acts as a plasmin inhibitor. Bt-KTI consists of a 58-amino acid mature peptide that displays features consistent with snake venom Kunitz-type inhibitors, including six conserved cysteine residues and a P1 site. Recombinant Bt-KTI was expressed as a 6.5-kDa peptide in baculovirus-infected insect cells. The recombinant peptide demonstrated properties similar to Kunitz-type trypsin inhibitors. Bt-KTI showed no detectable inhibitory effects on factor Xa, thrombin, or tissue plasminogen activator; however, Bt-KTI strongly inhibited plasmin, indicating that it acts as an antifibrinolytic agent. These findings demonstrate the antifibrinolytic role of Bt-KTI as a plasmin inhibitor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Qiu
- College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Dong-A University, Busan 604-714, Republic of Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Qiu Y, Yoon HJ, Jin BR. Molecular Cloning and Characterization of Chymotrypsin Inhibitor and Chitin-Binding Protein Homologs from the Bumblebee Bombus terrestris. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.7852/ijie.2012.25.1.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
|
23
|
Antifibrinolytic role of a bee venom serine protease inhibitor that acts as a plasmin inhibitor. PLoS One 2012; 7:e32269. [PMID: 22359676 PMCID: PMC3281132 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0032269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2011] [Accepted: 01/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bee venom is a rich source of pharmacologically active substances. In this study, we identified a bumblebee (Bombus ignitus) venom Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor (Bi-KTI) that acts as a plasmin inhibitor. Bi-KTI showed no detectable inhibitory effect on factor Xa, thrombin, or tissue plasminogen activator. In contrast, Bi-KTI strongly inhibited plasmin, indicating that it acts as an antifibrinolytic agent; however, this inhibitory ability was two-fold weaker than that of aprotinin. The fibrin(ogen)olytic activities of B. ignitus venom serine protease (Bi-VSP) and plasmin in the presence of Bi-KTI indicate that Bi-KTI targets plasmin more specifically than Bi-VSP. These findings demonstrate a novel mechanism by which bumblebee venom affects the hemostatic system through the antifibrinolytic activity of Bi-KTI and through Bi-VSP-mediated fibrin(ogen)olytic activities, raising interest in Bi-KTI and Bi-VSP as potential clinical agents.
Collapse
|