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Rodrigues GM, de Almeida ME, Marcelino SAC, Fernandes PBU, da Cruz JOP, Araújo FL, Ferreira RDS, Botelho AFM, Bedoya FJ, Cahuana GM, Hitos AB, Soria B, Costal-Oliveira F, Duarte CG, Tejedo JR, Chávez-Olórtegui C, Melo MM. Protective effects of mesenchymal stromal cell-derived secretome on dermonecrosis induced in rabbits by Loxosceles intermedia spider venom. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2024; 30:e20240004. [PMID: 39069986 PMCID: PMC11276892 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2024-0004] [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: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Loxoscelism refers to a set of clinical manifestations caused by the bite of spiders from the Loxosceles genus. The classic clinical symptoms are characterized by an intense inflammatory reaction at the bite site followed by local necrosis and can be classified as cutaneous loxoscelism. This cutaneous form presents difficult healing, and the proposed treatments are not specific or effective. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of mesenchymal stromal cells-derived secretome on dermonecrosis induced by Loxosceles intermedia spider venom in rabbits. Methods Sixteen rabbits were distributed into four groups (n = 4). Except for group 1 (G1), which received only PBS, the other three groups (G2, G3, and G4) were initially challenged with 10 μg of L. intermedia venom, diluted in 100 μL of NaCl 0.9%, by intradermic injection in the interscapular region. Thirty minutes after the challenge all groups were treated with secretome, except for group 2. Group 1 (G1-control group) received intradermal injection (ID) of 60 μg of secretome in 0.15 M PBS; Group 2 (G2) received 0.9% NaCl via ID; Group 3 (G3) received 60 μg of secretome, via ID and Group 4 (G4), received 60 μg of secretome by intravenous route. Rabbits were evaluated daily and after 15 days were euthanized, necropsied and skin samples around the necrotic lesions were collected for histological analysis. Results Rabbits of G1 did not present edema, erythema, hemorrhagic halo, or necrosis. In animals from G2, G3, and G4, edema appeared after 6h. However, minor edema was observed in the animals of G2 and G3. Hemorrhagic halo was observed in animals, six hours and three days after, on G2, G3, and G4. Macroscopically, in G4, only one animal out of four had a lesion that evolved into a dermonecrotic wound. No changes were observed in the skin of the animals of G1, by microscopic evaluation. All animals challenged with L. intermedia venom showed similar alterations, such as necrosis and heterophilic infiltration. However, animals from G4 showed fibroblast activation, early development of connective tissue, neovascularization, and tissue re-epithelialization, indicating a more prominent healing process. Conclusion These results suggest that secretome from mesenchymal stromal cells cultured in a xeno-free and human component-free culture media can be promising to treat dermonecrosis caused after Loxosceles spiders bite envenoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Marques Rodrigues
- Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary College,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Mara Elvira de Almeida
- Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary College,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Sóstenes Apolo Correia Marcelino
- Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary College,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Paula Bretas Ullmann Fernandes
- Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary College,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Jessica Oliveira Pereira da Cruz
- Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary College,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Françoise Louanne Araújo
- Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary College,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Raquel da Silva Ferreira
- Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary College,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ana Flávia Machado Botelho
- Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary College,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Francisco Javier Bedoya
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemical Engineering,
Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Seville, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network for Diabetes and Related Metabolic
Diseases (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gladys Margot Cahuana
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemical Engineering,
Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Seville, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network for Diabetes and Related Metabolic
Diseases (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Belén Hitos
- Institute of Bioengineering and Institute of Biomedical Research
ISABIAL, University Miguel Hernández de Elche, Alicante, Spain
| | - Bernat Soria
- Biomedical Research Network for Diabetes and Related Metabolic
Diseases (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Bioengineering and Institute of Biomedical Research
ISABIAL, University Miguel Hernández de Elche, Alicante, Spain
| | - Fernanda Costal-Oliveira
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological
Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG,
Brazil
| | | | - Juan R. Tejedo
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemical Engineering,
Universidad Pablo de Olavide, Seville, Spain
- Biomedical Research Network for Diabetes and Related Metabolic
Diseases (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Tropical Diseases, Universidad Nacional Toribio
Rodríguez de Mendoza de Amazonas, Chachapoyas, Peru
| | - Carlos Chávez-Olórtegui
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological
Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG,
Brazil
| | - Marília Martins Melo
- Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary College,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Moreno-Cordova EN, Alvarez-Armenta A, Garcia-Orozco KD, Arvizu-Flores AA, Islas-Osuna MA, Robles-Zepeda RE, Lopez-Zavala AA, Laino A, Sotelo-Mundo RR. Binding of green tea epigallocatechin gallate to the arginine kinase active site from the brown recluse spider ( Loxosceles laeta): A potential synergist to chemical pesticides. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34036. [PMID: 39071691 PMCID: PMC11282998 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Loxosceles spp. spiders can cause serious public health issues. Chemical control is commonly used, leading to health and environmental problems. Identifying molecular targets and using them with natural compounds can help develop safer and eco-friendlier biopesticides. We studied the kinetics and predicted structural characteristics of arginine kinase (EC 2.7.3.3) from Loxosceles laeta (LlAK), a key enzyme in the energy metabolism of these organisms. Additionally, we explored (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a green tea flavonoid, as a potential lead compound for the LlAK active site through fluorescence and in silico analysis, such as molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and MM/PBSA analyses. The results indicate that LlAK is a highly efficient enzyme (K m Arg 0.14 mM, K m ATP 0.98 mM, k cat 93 s-1, k cat/K m Arg 630 s-1 mM-1, k cat/K m ATP 94 s-1 mM-1), which correlates with its structure similarity to others AKs (such as Litopenaeus vannamei, Polybetes pythagoricus, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus) and might be related to its important function in the spider's energetic metabolism. Furthermore, the MD and MM/PBSA analysis suggests that EGCG interacted with LlAK, specifically at ATP/ADP binding site (RMSD <1 nm) and its interaction is energetically favored for its binding stability (-40 to -15 kcal/mol). Moreover, these results are supported by fluorescence quenching analysis (K d 58.3 μM and K a 1.71 × 104 M-1). In this context, LlAK is a promising target for the chemical control of L. laeta, and EGCG could be used in combination with conventional pesticides to manage the population of Loxosceles species in urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena N. Moreno-Cordova
- Laboratorio de Estructura Biomolecular, Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, A. C., Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Andres Alvarez-Armenta
- Departamento de Microbiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - Karina D. Garcia-Orozco
- Laboratorio de Estructura Biomolecular, Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, A. C., Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Aldo A. Arvizu-Flores
- Departamento de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad de Sonora, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Maria A. Islas-Osuna
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de Plantas, Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, A. C., Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Ramon E. Robles-Zepeda
- Departamento de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad de Sonora, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Alonso A. Lopez-Zavala
- Departamento de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad de Sonora, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | - Aldana Laino
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de La Plata “Prof. Dr. Rodolfo R. Brenner” (INIBIOLP), Centro Científico Tecnológico – La Plata CONICET- Univerdad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Rogerio R. Sotelo-Mundo
- Laboratorio de Estructura Biomolecular, Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, A. C., Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
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Silva-Magalhães R, Silva-Araújo AL, Peres-Damásio P, Teixeira Pereira EH, de Oliveira Souza R, Varela LSDRN, Tomé LMR, de Melo Iani FC, Silveira AL, Borges MH, Medina-Santos R, Chavez-Olórtegui C, Vasconcelos Diniz MR, Paiva ALB, Guerra-Duarte C. Loxosceles amazonica Brown Spider venom: Insights into enzymatic activities, immunorecognition, and novel phospholipase D isoforms. Biochimie 2024:S0300-9084(24)00156-1. [PMID: 38944106 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.06.012] [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: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
The Loxosceles genus represents one of the main arachnid genera of medical importance in Brazil. Despite the gravity of Loxosceles-related accidents, just a handful of species are deemed medically important and only a few have undergone comprehensive venom characterization. Loxosceles amazonica is a notable example of a potentially dangerous yet understudied Loxosceles species. While there have been limited reports of accidents involving L. amazonica to date, accidents related to Loxosceles are increasing in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil, where L. amazonica has been reported. In this work, we provide a complementary biochemical and immunological characterization of L. amazonica venom, considering its most relevant enzymatic activities and its immunorecognition and neutralization by current therapeutic antivenoms. Additionally, a cDNA library enriched with phospholipase D (PLD) sequences from L. amazonica venom glands was built and subsequently sequenced. The results showed that L. amazonica venom is well immunorecognised by all the tested antibodies. Its venom also displayed proteolytic, hyaluronidase, and sphingomyelinase activities. These activities were at least partially inhibited by available antivenoms. With cDNA sequencing of PLDs, seven new putative isoforms were identified in the venom of L. amazonica. These results contribute to a better knowledge of the venom content and activities of a synanthropic, yet understudied, Loxosceles species. In vivo assays are essential to confirm the medical relevance of L. amazonica, as well as to assess its true toxic potential and elucidate its related pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Silva-Magalhães
- Molecular Toxinology Lab, Research and Development Department, Ezequiel Dias Foundation - Funed, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ana Luiza Silva-Araújo
- Molecular Toxinology Lab, Research and Development Department, Ezequiel Dias Foundation - Funed, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Pamella Peres-Damásio
- Molecular Toxinology Lab, Research and Development Department, Ezequiel Dias Foundation - Funed, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Ramon de Oliveira Souza
- Molecular Toxinology Lab, Research and Development Department, Ezequiel Dias Foundation - Funed, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz Marcelo Ribeiro Tomé
- Central Laboratory of Public Health of Minas Gerais, Ezequiel Dias Foundation - Funed, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Felipe Campos de Melo Iani
- Central Laboratory of Public Health of Minas Gerais, Ezequiel Dias Foundation - Funed, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Márcia Helena Borges
- Arachnid Proteomics Lab, Research and Development Department, Ezequiel Dias Foundation - Funed, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Raíssa Medina-Santos
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Carlos Chavez-Olórtegui
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Biological Sciences Institute, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Luiza Bittencourt Paiva
- Molecular Toxinology Lab, Research and Development Department, Ezequiel Dias Foundation - Funed, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Clara Guerra-Duarte
- Molecular Toxinology Lab, Research and Development Department, Ezequiel Dias Foundation - Funed, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Lachmayr H, Merrill AH. A Brief Overview of the Toxic Sphingomyelinase Ds of Brown Recluse Spider Venom and Other Organisms and Simple Methods To Detect Production of Its Signature Cyclic Ceramide Phosphate. Mol Pharmacol 2024; 105:144-154. [PMID: 37739813 PMCID: PMC10877732 DOI: 10.1124/molpharm.123.000709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
A special category of phospholipase D (PLD) in the venom of the brown recluse spider (Loxosceles reclusa) and several other sicariid spiders accounts for the dermonecrosis and many of the other clinical symptoms of envenomation. Related proteins are produced by other organisms, including fungi and bacteria. These PLDs are often referred to as sphingomyelinase Ds (SMase Ds) because they cleave sphingomyelin (SM) to choline and "ceramide phosphate." The lipid product has actually been found to be a novel sphingolipid: ceramide 1,3-cyclic phosphate (Cer1,3P). Since there are no effective treatments for the injury induced by the bites of these spiders, SMase D/PLDs are attractive targets for therapeutic intervention, and some of their features will be described in this minireview. In addition, two simple methods are described for detecting the characteristic SMase D activity using a fluorescent SM analog, (N-[12-[(7-nitro-2-1,3-benzoxadiazol-4-yl)amino]dodecanoyl]-SM (C12-NBD-SM), that is cleaved to C12-NBD-Cer1,3P, which is easily separated from other potential metabolites by thin-layer chromatography and visualized under UV light. Besides confirming that C12-NBD-Cer1,3P is the only product detected upon incubation of C12-NBD-SM with brown recluse spider venom, the method was also able to detect for the first time very low levels of activity in venom from another spider, Kukulcania hibernalis The simplicity of the methods makes it relatively easy to determine this signature activity of SMase D/PLD. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: The sphingomyelinase D/phospholipase D that are present in the venom of the brown recluse spider and other sources cause considerable human injury, but detection of the novel sphingolipid product, ceramide 1,3-cyclic phosphate, is not easy by previously published methods. This minireview describes simple methods for detection of this activity that will be useful for studies of its occurrence in spider venoms and other biological samples, perhaps including lesions from suspected spider bites and infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Lachmayr
- School of Biological Sciences and the Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Alfred H Merrill
- School of Biological Sciences and the Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
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5
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Azuara-Antonio O, Ortiz MI, Jimenez-Oliver KD, Hernandez-Cruz LE, Rivero-Veras G, Hernandez-Ramirez L. Clinical Evolution After Administering Antivenom in Patients With Loxoscelism. J Med Cases 2023; 14:378-386. [PMID: 38029054 PMCID: PMC10681763 DOI: 10.14740/jmc4163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Spiders are the most numerous arthropods of the arachnid class. More than 45 thousand species of spiders have been identified, and only a few are dangerous to humans. Among them, the "violin spider" or "brown spider" of the genus Loxosceles (family Sicariidae) has a worldwide distribution, and its bite can cause loxoscelism. Initial treatment of a Loxosceles spider bite includes application of local cold, rest, elevation of the extremity if possible, and systemic pharmacotherapy with antihistamines, corticosteroids, antibiotics, polymorphonuclear inhibitors, and analgesics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. During cutaneous or systemic loxoscelism, administration of Loxosceles antivenom (immunoglobulin (Ig)G F(ab')2 fragments) may be indicated to prevent progression to severe systemic phases. In this manuscript, we present three cases of patients with loxoscelism treated with the fabotherapeutic Reclusmyn®, developed and manufactured in Mexico. Two patients had a satisfactory outcome without severe skin or systemic damage. Only one patient with loxoscelism, despite early initiation of antivenom, had extensive skin lesions that healed satisfactorily, leaving only a non-disabling scar. Due to the global presence of this clinical problem, further studies are needed to establish local and general guidelines for the treatment and prevention of loxoscelism. This will allow health professionals to provide more efficient and higher quality medical care and feel supported in their decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Azuara-Antonio
- Hospital General de Pachuca, Pachuca, Hidalgo, C.P. 42070, Mexico
- Area Academica de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Pachuca de Soto, Hidalgo, C.P. 42090, Mexico
| | - Mario I. Ortiz
- Area Academica de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Pachuca de Soto, Hidalgo, C.P. 42090, Mexico
| | - Karla D. Jimenez-Oliver
- Area Academica de Medicina, Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Pachuca de Soto, Hidalgo, C.P. 42090, Mexico
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Alvarez-Rubio FJ, Robles-Tenorio A, Tarango-Martínez VM. Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure Triggered by Cutaneous Loxoscelism. Cureus 2023; 15:e46540. [PMID: 37927720 PMCID: PMC10625461 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.46540] [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] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute-on-chronic liver failure is a syndrome associated with a high short-term mortality rate. Severe systemic inflammation and single- and multiple-organ failure are a hallmark of this syndrome, with pro-inflammatory precipitating events occurring in the liver or extrahepatic regions. We report a case of a 69-year-old man with a previous diagnosis of alcohol-induced liver cirrhosis who presented with a poorly defined, erythematous-purplish, and edematous plaque with multiple hemorrhagic blisters over the left leg, one day after receiving a spider bite. During the following hours, the skin lesion progressed, and the patient developed hepatic encephalopathy, respiratory failure, and arterial hypotension, requiring the administration of vasopressors; blood analysis revealed hypercreatininemia, an elevated international normalized ratio (INR) value, and hyperbilirubinemia. The patient was diagnosed with acute-on-chronic liver failure caused by cutaneous loxoscelism. There was no hemolytic anemia, rhabdomyolysis, or disseminated intravascular coagulation in the patient, thus excluding the possibility of visceral loxoscelism.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arturo Robles-Tenorio
- Dermatology, Instituto Dermatológico de Jalisco Dr. José Barba Rubio, Guadalajara, MEX
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de Miranda ALS, Antunes BC, Minozzo JC, Lima SDA, Botelho AFM, Campos MTG, Chávez-Olórtegui C, Soto-Blanco B. The Health Status of Horses Used for at Least Six Complete Cycles of Loxoscelic Antivenom Production. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:589. [PMID: 37888620 PMCID: PMC10610985 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15100589] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Antivenom production against Loxosceles venom relies on horses being immunized and bled for plasma harvest. One horse can partake in several cycles of antivenom production, which will require years of constant venom and adjuvant inoculation and bleeding. The actual impact on the health of horses that participate in several antivenom-producing cycles is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the general health status of horses that underwent at least six cycles of loxoscelic antivenom production. Seven crossbred horses that had partaken in six to eight complete antivenom-producing cycles were used and established as the immunized group (IG). Under the same handling and general management, eleven horses were established as the control group (CG). The horses were evaluated regarding their general clinical status and had their blood sampled, and an ECG recorded. The IG presented lower RBC and PCV, despite keeping values within inferior limits for the species. Renal function was not impaired, and liver-related enzymes were higher than those in the CG, probably due to liver exertion from immunoglobulin synthesis. ECG showed some abnormalities in the IG, such as atrioventricular block and a wandering atrial pacemaker, corroborated by an increase in CK-MB. The cardiovascular abnormalities were mainly found in the horses that participated in several antivenom-producing cycles. The overall results indicate that these horses had some impairment of their general health status. Once available, some alternative, less toxic antigens should replace the venom for immunization of horses used for antivenom production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luísa Soares de Miranda
- Department of Veterinary Clinics and Surgery, Veterinary College, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte 30123-970, MG, Brazil; (A.L.S.d.M.); (M.T.G.C.)
| | - Bruno Cesar Antunes
- Department of Health of the State of Paraná, Centro de Produção e Pesquisa de Imunobiológicos (CPPI), Rua Piquiri 170, Piraquara 80230-140, PR, Brazil; (B.C.A.); (J.C.M.)
| | - João Carlos Minozzo
- Department of Health of the State of Paraná, Centro de Produção e Pesquisa de Imunobiológicos (CPPI), Rua Piquiri 170, Piraquara 80230-140, PR, Brazil; (B.C.A.); (J.C.M.)
| | - Sabrina de Almeida Lima
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (S.d.A.L.); (C.C.-O.)
| | - Ana Flávia Machado Botelho
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary College, Universidade Federal de Goiás (UFG), Campus Samambaia, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil;
| | - Marco Túlio Gomes Campos
- Department of Veterinary Clinics and Surgery, Veterinary College, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte 30123-970, MG, Brazil; (A.L.S.d.M.); (M.T.G.C.)
| | - Carlos Chávez-Olórtegui
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (S.d.A.L.); (C.C.-O.)
| | - Benito Soto-Blanco
- Department of Veterinary Clinics and Surgery, Veterinary College, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Belo Horizonte 30123-970, MG, Brazil; (A.L.S.d.M.); (M.T.G.C.)
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8
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Alves-Mondini C, Beltramino M, Jiacomini IG, Karim-Silva S, Dos Santos Antunes N, de Moura J, Aubrey N, Billiald P, Machado-de-Ávila RA, Alvarenga LM, Becker-Finco A. Identification of a common epitope in knottins and phospholipases D present in Loxosceles sp venom by a monoclonal antibody. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 246:125588. [PMID: 37399872 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.125588] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
In the Americas and specially in Brazil, the Loxosceles intermedia, Loxosceles gaucho and Loxosceles laeta are the three most medically relevant brown spider species, and whose bites can lead to the condition known as loxoscelism. Here, we report the development of a tool capable of identifying a common epitope amongst Loxosceles sp. venom's toxins. A murine monoclonal antibody (LmAb12) and its recombinant fragments (scFv12P and diabody12P) have been produced and characterized. This antibody and its recombinant constructs were able to recognize proteins of Loxosceles spider venoms with specificity. The scFv12P variant was also able to detect low concentrations of Loxosceles venom in a competitive ELISA assay, displaying potential as a venom identification tool. The primary antigenic target of LmAb12 is a knottin, a venom neurotoxin, that has a shared identity of 100 % between the L. intermedia and L. gaucho species and high similarity to L. laeta. Furthermore, we observed LmAb12 was able to partially inhibit in vitro hemolysis, a cellular event typically induced by the Loxosceles sp. venoms. Such behavior might be due to LmAb12 cross-reactivity between the antigenic target of LmAb12 and the venom's dermonecrotic toxins, the PLDs, or even the existence of synergism between these two toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Alves-Mondini
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Departamento de Patologia Básica, Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Martina Beltramino
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Departamento de Patologia Básica, Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Isabella Gizzi Jiacomini
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Departamento de Patologia Básica, Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Curitiba, PR, Brazil; Université de Tours - INRA, UMR 1282, Faculté de Pharmacie, 31 Avenue Monge, 37200 Tours Cedex, France
| | - Sabrina Karim-Silva
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Departamento de Patologia Básica, Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Nicolle Dos Santos Antunes
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Departamento de Patologia Básica, Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Juliana de Moura
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Departamento de Patologia Básica, Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Nicolas Aubrey
- Université de Tours - INRA, UMR 1282, Faculté de Pharmacie, 31 Avenue Monge, 37200 Tours Cedex, France
| | - Philippe Billiald
- LVTS, INSERM UMR S1148, Paris & Université Paris-Saclay, School of Pharmacy, 91400 Orsay, France
| | - Ricardo Andrez Machado-de-Ávila
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Universitário, 88806-000 Criciúma, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Larissa M Alvarenga
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Departamento de Patologia Básica, Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Curitiba, PR, Brazil.
| | - Alessandra Becker-Finco
- Universidade Federal do Paraná, Departamento de Patologia Básica, Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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9
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da Justa HC, Hernández González JE, Vuitika L, Mariutti RB, Magnago PAM, de Moraes FR, Senff-Ribeiro A, Gremski LH, Arni RK, Veiga SS. Comparative Biochemical, Structural, and Functional Analysis of Recombinant Phospholipases D from Three Loxosceles Spider Venoms. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12006. [PMID: 37569382 PMCID: PMC10419089 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512006] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Spiders of Loxosceles genus are widely distributed and their venoms contain phospholipases D (PLDs), which degrade phospholipids and trigger inflammatory responses, dermonecrosis, hematological changes, and renal injuries. Biochemical, functional, and structural properties of three recombinant PLDs from L. intermedia, L. laeta, and L. gaucho, the principal species clinically relevant in South America, were analyzed. Sera against L. gaucho and L. laeta PLDs strongly cross-reacted with other PLDs, but sera against L. intermedia PLD mostly reacted with homologous molecules, suggesting underlying structural and functional differences. PLDs presented a similar secondary structure profile but distinct melting temperatures. Different methods demonstrated that all PLDs cleave sphingomyelin and lysophosphatidylcholine, but L. gaucho and L. laeta PLDs excelled. L. gaucho PLD showed greater "in vitro" hemolytic activity. L. gaucho and L. laeta PLDs were more lethal in assays with mice and crickets. Molecular dynamics simulations correlated their biochemical activities with differences in sequences and conformations of specific surface loops, which play roles in protein stability and in modulating interactions with the membrane. Despite the high similarity, PLDs from L. gaucho and L. laeta venoms are more active than L. intermedia PLD, requiring special attention from physicians when these two species prevail in endemic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Câmara da Justa
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil; (H.C.d.J.); (L.V.); (P.A.M.M.); (A.S.-R.); (L.H.G.)
| | - Jorge Enrique Hernández González
- Department of Physics, Multi-User Center for Biomolecular Innovation, State University of São Paulo (UNESP), São Paulo 05315-970, Brazil; (J.E.H.G.); (R.B.M.); (F.R.d.M.); (R.K.A.)
| | - Larissa Vuitika
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil; (H.C.d.J.); (L.V.); (P.A.M.M.); (A.S.-R.); (L.H.G.)
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences IV, University of São Paulo (ICB-IV/USP), São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Barros Mariutti
- Department of Physics, Multi-User Center for Biomolecular Innovation, State University of São Paulo (UNESP), São Paulo 05315-970, Brazil; (J.E.H.G.); (R.B.M.); (F.R.d.M.); (R.K.A.)
| | - Pedro Augusto Martinho Magnago
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil; (H.C.d.J.); (L.V.); (P.A.M.M.); (A.S.-R.); (L.H.G.)
| | - Fábio Rogério de Moraes
- Department of Physics, Multi-User Center for Biomolecular Innovation, State University of São Paulo (UNESP), São Paulo 05315-970, Brazil; (J.E.H.G.); (R.B.M.); (F.R.d.M.); (R.K.A.)
| | - Andrea Senff-Ribeiro
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil; (H.C.d.J.); (L.V.); (P.A.M.M.); (A.S.-R.); (L.H.G.)
| | - Luiza Helena Gremski
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil; (H.C.d.J.); (L.V.); (P.A.M.M.); (A.S.-R.); (L.H.G.)
| | - Raghuvir Krishnaswamy Arni
- Department of Physics, Multi-User Center for Biomolecular Innovation, State University of São Paulo (UNESP), São Paulo 05315-970, Brazil; (J.E.H.G.); (R.B.M.); (F.R.d.M.); (R.K.A.)
| | - Silvio Sanches Veiga
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil; (H.C.d.J.); (L.V.); (P.A.M.M.); (A.S.-R.); (L.H.G.)
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10
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Gremski LH, da Justa HC, Polli NLC, Schluga PHDC, Theodoro JL, Wille ACM, Senff-Ribeiro A, Veiga SS. Systemic Loxoscelism, Less Frequent but More Deadly: The Involvement of Phospholipases D in the Pathophysiology of Envenomation. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 15:17. [PMID: 36668837 PMCID: PMC9864854 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15010017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Bites of Loxosceles spiders can lead to a set of clinical manifestations called loxoscelism, and are considered a public health problem in many regions. The signs and symptoms of loxoscelism are divided into cutaneous and systemic forms. The former is more frequent and includes signs of envenoming at the bite site or neighboring regions. Systemic loxoscelism, although much less frequent, is associated with complications, and can even lead to death. It may include intravascular hemolysis, acute renal failure, and thrombocytopenia. Loxosceles venoms are enriched with phospholipases D (PLDs), which are a family of isoforms found at intra-species and inter-species levels. Under experimental conditions, these enzymes reproduce the main clinical signs of loxoscelism, including an exacerbated inflammatory response at the bite site and dermonecrosis, as well as thrombocytopenia, intravascular hemolysis, and acute renal failure. The role of PLDs in cutaneous loxoscelism was described over forty years ago, when studies identified and purified toxins featured as sphingomyelinase D. More recently, the production of recombinant PLDs and discoveries about their structure and mechanism has enabled a deeper characterization of these enzymes. In this review, we describe these biochemical and functional features of Loxosceles PLDs that determine their involvement in systemic loxoscelism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiza Helena Gremski
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Hanna Câmara da Justa
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil
| | | | | | - João Lucas Theodoro
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Martins Wille
- Department of Structural, Molecular Biology and Genetics, State University of Ponta Grossa (UEPG), Ponta Grossa 84030-900, Brazil
| | - Andrea Senff-Ribeiro
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Silvio Sanches Veiga
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil
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11
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Moutoussamy E, Khan HM, Roberts MF, Gershenson A, Chipot C, Reuter N. Standard Binding Free Energy and Membrane Desorption Mechanism for a Phospholipase C. J Chem Inf Model 2022; 62:6602-6613. [PMID: 35343689 PMCID: PMC9795555 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jcim.1c01543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Peripheral membrane proteins (PMPs) bind temporarily to cellular membranes and play important roles in signaling, lipid metabolism, and membrane trafficking. Obtaining accurate membrane-PMP affinities using experimental techniques is more challenging than for protein-ligand affinities in an aqueous solution. At the theoretical level, calculation of the standard protein-membrane binding free energy using molecular dynamics simulations remains a daunting challenge owing to the size of the biological objects at play, the slow lipid diffusion, and the large variation in configurational entropy that accompanies the binding process. To overcome these challenges, we used a computational framework relying on a series of potential-of-mean-force (PMF) calculations including a set of geometrical restraints on collective variables. This methodology allowed us to determine the standard binding free energy of a PMP to a phospholipid bilayer using an all-atom force field. Bacillus thuringiensis phosphatidylinositol-specific phospholipase C (BtPI-PLC) was chosen due to its importance as a virulence factor and owing to the host of experimental affinity data available. We computed a standard binding free energy of -8.2 ± 1.4 kcal/mol in reasonable agreement with the reported experimental values (-6.6 ± 0.2 kcal/mol). In light of the 2.3-μs separation PMF calculation, we investigated the mechanism whereby BtPI-PLC disengages from interactions with the lipid bilayer during separation. We describe how a short amphipathic helix engages in transitory interactions to ease the passage of its hydrophobes through the interfacial region upon desorption from the bilayer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel
E. Moutoussamy
- Department
of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, N-5020 Bergen, Norway,Computational
Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, N-5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Hanif M. Khan
- Department
of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, N-5020 Bergen, Norway,Computational
Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, N-5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Mary F. Roberts
- Department
of Chemistry, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts 02467, United States
| | - Anne Gershenson
- Department
of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University
of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, United States
| | - Christophe Chipot
- Laboratoire
International Associé Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique
et University of Illinois at Urbana−Champaign, Unité
Mixte de Recherche n 7019, Université
de Lorraine, BP 70239, 54506 Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy cedex, France,Department
of Physics, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Nathalie Reuter
- Computational
Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, N-5020 Bergen, Norway,Department
of Chemistry, University of Bergen, N-5020 Bergen, Norway,
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12
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Medina-Santos R, Fernandes Costa TG, Silva de Assis TC, Kalapothakis Y, de Almeida Lima S, do Carmo AO, Gonzalez-Kozlova EE, Kalapothakis E, Chávez-Olórtegui C, Guerra-Duarte C. Analysis of NGS data from Peruvian Loxosceles laeta spider venom gland reveals toxin diversity. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY. PART D, GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2022; 43:101017. [PMID: 35932519 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2022.101017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Accidents involving spiders from the genus Loxosceles cause medical emergencies in several countries of South America. The species Loxosceles laeta is ubiquitously present in Peru and is responsible for severe accidents in this country. To further characterize L. laeta venom components and to unveil possible variations in the Peruvian population, we provide an overview of the toxins-related transcripts present in the venom gland of Peruvian L. laeta. A dataset from a cDNA library previously sequenced by MiSeq sequencer (Illumina) was re-analyzed and the obtained data was compared with available sequences from Loxosceles toxins. Phospholipase-D represent the majority (69,28 %) of the transcripts related to venom toxins, followed by metalloproteases (20,72 %), sicaritoxins (6,03 %), serine-proteases (2,28 %), hyaluronidases (1,80 %) and Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (TCTP) (0,56 %). New sequences of phospholipases D,sicaritoxins, hyaluronidase, TCTP and serine proteinases were described. Differences between the here-described toxin sequences and others, previously identified in venom glands from other spiders, were visualized upon sequence alignments. In addition, an in vitro hyaluronidase activity assay was also performed to complement comparisons between Peruvian and Brazilian L. laeta venom enzymatic activities, revealing a superior activity in the venom from Brazilian specimens. These new data provide a molecular basis that can help to explain the difference in toxicity among L. laeta venoms from different countries in South America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raíssa Medina-Santos
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil; Genetic, Ecology and Evolution Department, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | - Yan Kalapothakis
- Genetic, Ecology and Evolution Department, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | - Edgar E Gonzalez-Kozlova
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School for Data Science and Genomic Technology, New York, United States of America
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13
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Quispe RL, Jaramillo ML, Torres-Huaco F, Bonilla C, Isasi J, Guerra-Duarte C, Chávez-Olórtegui C. Partial in vivo protection against Peruvian spider Loxosceles laeta venom by immunization with a multiepitopic protein (rMEPLox). Toxicon 2022; 215:1-5. [PMID: 35660625 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.05.044] [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: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Loxoscelism is a serious public health problem in Peru, with approximately 2500 accidents reported per year. To envision alternatives to cope with this health problem, the neutralizing humoral immune response against the lethal effects of Peruvian spider Loxosceles laeta venom was evaluated in a mouse model by immunization with a non-toxic multiepitopic protein (rMEPLox). This immunogen contains epitopes from an astacin-like metalloprotease, a hyaluronidase and a sphingomyelinase-D from Loxosceles intermedia and from SMase-I from L. laeta venoms. In vivo protection assays showed that five out of six mice immunized with rMEPLox (after six injections) resisted to 1.4 LD50 of L. laeta venom, whereas only two animals from a control group survived. The present results indicates that this multiepitopic protein can be a promising candidate for anti-loxoscelic antivenom production and experimental vaccination approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth L Quispe
- Laboratorio de Toxinología, Centro Nacional de Productos Biológicos (CNPB), Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Peru
| | - Michael L Jaramillo
- Laboratorio de Toxinología, Centro Nacional de Productos Biológicos (CNPB), Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Peru
| | - Frank Torres-Huaco
- Laboratorio de Toxinología, Centro Nacional de Productos Biológicos (CNPB), Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Peru; Coordinación de Investigación, Universidad Continental, Avenida Los Incas S/n, Arequipa, Peru
| | - Cesar Bonilla
- Laboratorio de Toxinología, Centro Nacional de Productos Biológicos (CNPB), Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Peru; Facultad de Odontologia, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Peru
| | - Jacqueline Isasi
- Laboratorio de Toxinología, Centro Nacional de Productos Biológicos (CNPB), Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Peru
| | - Clara Guerra-Duarte
- Diretoria de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, 30510-010, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Carlos Chávez-Olórtegui
- Laboratorio de Toxinología, Centro Nacional de Productos Biológicos (CNPB), Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Peru; Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, ICB, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, CEP, 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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14
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de Miranda ALS, Antunes BC, Minozzo JC, Lima SDA, Botelho AFM, Campos MTG, Chávez-Olórtegui CD, Soto-Blanco B. Clinical Effects of the Immunization Protocol Using Loxosceles Venom in Naïve Horses. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:338. [PMID: 35622586 PMCID: PMC9148105 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14050338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Bites of brown spiders (Loxosceles spp.) are responsible for dermonecrotic lesions and potentially systemic envenoming that can lead to death. The only effective therapy is the use of the antivenom, usually produced in horses. However, little is known about the consequences of the systematic use of the Loxosceles venom and adjuvants and of the bleedings on antivenom-producing horses. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical changes in horses in their first immunization protocol for Loxosceles antivenom production. Eleven healthy horses, never immunized, were evaluated in three different periods: T0 (before immunization); T1 (after their first venom immunization); and T2 (after their first bleeding). Horses were clinically evaluated, sampled for blood, and underwent electrocardiographic (ECG) recordings. Several suppurated subcutaneous abscesses occurred due to the use of Freund's adjuvants and thrombophlebitis due to systematic venipunctures for the bleeding procedures. ECG showed arrhythmias in few horses in T2, such as an increase in T and R waves. In summary, the immunization protocol impacted on horses' health, especially after bleeding for antivenom procurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Luísa Soares de Miranda
- Department of Veterinary Clinics and Surgery, Veterinary College, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30123-970, MG, Brazil; (A.L.S.d.M.); (M.T.G.C.)
| | - Bruno Cesar Antunes
- Department of Health of the State of Paraná, Production and Research Center of Immunobiologicals, Piraquara 80230-140, PR, Brazil; (B.C.A.); (J.C.M.)
| | - João Carlos Minozzo
- Department of Health of the State of Paraná, Production and Research Center of Immunobiologicals, Piraquara 80230-140, PR, Brazil; (B.C.A.); (J.C.M.)
| | - Sabrina de Almeida Lima
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (S.d.A.L.); (C.D.C.-O.)
| | - Ana Flávia Machado Botelho
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary College, Federal University of Goiás, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia 74690-900, GO, Brazil;
| | - Marco Túlio Gomes Campos
- Department of Veterinary Clinics and Surgery, Veterinary College, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30123-970, MG, Brazil; (A.L.S.d.M.); (M.T.G.C.)
| | - Carlos Delfin Chávez-Olórtegui
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil; (S.d.A.L.); (C.D.C.-O.)
| | - Benito Soto-Blanco
- Department of Veterinary Clinics and Surgery, Veterinary College, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30123-970, MG, Brazil; (A.L.S.d.M.); (M.T.G.C.)
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15
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Ferreira MD, Veiga SS, Dos Santos FA. Brown spider (Loxosceles sp.) bite and COVID-19: A case report. Toxicon 2022; 212:1-7. [PMID: 35346694 PMCID: PMC8957330 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
We present the case of a 32-year-old male patient hospitalized during the COVID-19 pandemic because of a Brown spider bite on his lower lip. The Brown spider accident occurred in southern Brazil; at hospital admission, the patient presented on his lip: edema, pustules, necrotic regions, and ulcerations. The patient complained of lower back pain, fever and dyspnea. Laboratory tests showed monocytosis, leukocytosis, neutrophilia, increased D-dimer levels, C-reactive protein, glutamate-pyruvate transaminase, delta bilirubin, creatine phosphokinase, procalcitonin, and fibrinogen. The patient was hospitalized and a multi-professional team carried out the treatment. The medical team diagnosed loxoscelism with moderate changes. The dentist treated the oral cavity. The patient began to develop nausea, vomiting, and desaturation episodes during hospitalization. A computed tomography of the chest was performed, which showed signs of viral infection. The RT-PCR test for COVID-19 was positive. The systemic conditions worsened (renal dysfunction, systemic inflammatory response, pulmonary complications). This condition may have resulted from the association of the two diseases (loxoscelism and COVID-19), leading to the patient's death. This case illustrates the difficulties and risks in treating patients with venomous animal accidents during the pandemic, and the importance of a multi-professional team in treating such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marceli Dias Ferreira
- Department of Dentistry, School of Dentistry, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Fábio André Dos Santos
- Department of Dentistry, School of Dentistry, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, PR, Brazil.
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16
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Marchi FC, Mendes-Silva E, Rodrigues-Ribeiro L, Bolais-Ramos LG, Verano-Braga T. Toxinology in the proteomics era: a review on arachnid venom proteomics. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2022; 28:20210034. [PMID: 35291269 PMCID: PMC8893269 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The word venomics was coined to acknowledge the studies that use omics to investigate venom proteins and peptides. Venomics has evolved considerably over the last 20 years. The first works on scorpion or spider venomics were published in the early 2000's. Such studies relied on peptide mass fingerprinting (PMF) to characterize venom complexity. After the introduction of new mass spectrometers with higher resolution, sensitivity and mass accuracy, and the next-generation nucleotide sequencing, the complexity of data reported in research on scorpion and spider venomics increased exponentially, which allowed more comprehensive studies. In the present review article, we covered key publications on scorpion venomics and spider venomics, presenting historical grounds and implemented technologies over the last years. The literature presented in this review was selected after searching the PubMed database using the terms "(scorpion venom) AND (proteome)" for scorpion venomics, and "(spider venom) AND (proteome)" for publications on spider venomics. We presented the key aspects related to proteomics in the covered papers including, but not restricted to, the employed proteomic strategy (i.e., PMF, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, shotgun/bottom-up and/or top-down/peptidome), and the type of mass spectrometer used. Some conclusions can be drawn from the present study. For example, the scorpion genus Tityus is the most studied concerning venomics, followed by Centruroides; whereas for spiders the studied genera were found more equally distributed. Another interesting conclusion is the lack of high throughput studies on post-translational modifications (PTMs) of scorpion and spider proteins. In our opinion, PTMs should be more studied as they can modulate the activity of scorpion and spider toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipi Calbaizer Marchi
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Edneia Mendes-Silva
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lucas Rodrigues-Ribeiro
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Lucas Gabriel Bolais-Ramos
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Thiago Verano-Braga
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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17
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Moutoussamy EE, Waheed Q, Binford GJ, Khan HM, Moran SM, Eitel AR, Cordes MHJ, Reuter N. Specificity of Loxosceles α clade phospholipase D enzymes for choline-containing lipids: Role of a conserved aromatic cage. PLoS Comput Biol 2022; 18:e1009871. [PMID: 35180220 PMCID: PMC8893692 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider venom GDPD-like phospholipases D (SicTox) have been identified to be one of the major toxins in recluse spider venom. They are divided into two major clades: the α clade and the β clade. Most α clade toxins present high activity against lipids with choline head groups such as sphingomyelin, while activities in β clade toxins vary and include preference for substrates containing ethanolamine headgroups (Sicarius terrosus, St_βIB1). A structural comparison of available structures of phospholipases D (PLDs) reveals a conserved aromatic cage in the α clade. To test the potential influence of the aromatic cage on membrane-lipid specificity we performed molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the binding of several PLDs onto lipid bilayers containing choline headgroups; two SicTox from the α clade, Loxosceles intermedia αIA1 (Li_αIA) and Loxosceles laeta αIII1 (Ll_αIII1), and one from the β clade, St_βIB1. The simulation results reveal that the aromatic cage captures a choline-headgroup and suggest that the cage plays a major role in lipid specificity. We also simulated an engineered St_βIB1, where we introduced the aromatic cage, and this led to binding with choline-containing lipids. Moreover, a multiple sequence alignment revealed the conservation of the aromatic cage among the α clade PLDs. Here, we confirmed that the i-face of α and β clade PLDs is involved in their binding to choline and ethanolamine-containing bilayers, respectively. Furthermore, our results suggest a major role in choline lipid recognition of the aromatic cage of the α clade PLDs. The MD simulation results are supported by in vitro liposome binding assay experiments. Envenomation following bites from recluse spiders (Loxosceles) causes loxoscelism, a necrotic tissue breakdown in mammals, and leads to skin degeneration and systemic reactions in the worst case. Recluse spiders belong to the Sicariidae family which also includes six-eyed sand spiders in the genera Sicarius and Hexopthalma. While sicariid spiders are found natively on all continents except Australia, treatments of loxoscelism are typically antibody based and available in some regions of the Americas. Sphingomyelinase D/phospholipase D enzymes are one of the major toxins in venom of sicariid spiders, and have been divided in two clades called α and β. The activity of α and β clades toxins differs; most α clade toxins present high activity against lipids with choline headgroups (-N (CH3)3+) such as sphingomyelin, while activities in β clade toxins vary and include preference for substrates containing ethanolamine headgroups (-NH3+). When comparing the structures of two α clade toxins and one β clade toxin, we noticed the presence in the α clade toxins only of a cage consisting of three aromatic amino acids. In this work we used numerical molecular simulations to probe the role of this cage in the preference of α clade toxins for choline head groups over ethanolamine head groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel E. Moutoussamy
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Qaiser Waheed
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Greta J. Binford
- Department of Biology, Lewis and Clark College, Portland, Oregon, United States
| | - Hanif M. Khan
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Shane M. Moran
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Arizona, United States
| | - Anna R. Eitel
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Arizona, United States
| | - Matthew H. J. Cordes
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arizona, Arizona, United States
| | - Nathalie Reuter
- Computational Biology Unit, Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- * E-mail:
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18
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Sims RA, Fish-Trotter HL, Clark DE, Gayle KA, Hughes SG, Brittain EL. Toxin-Mediated Myocarditis From a Brown Recluse Spider Bite. JACC Case Rep 2022; 4:49-53. [PMID: 35036944 PMCID: PMC8743809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
We describe a case of myocarditis associated with a brown recluse spider bite in a 31-year-old man. Cardiac magnetic resonance revealed late gadolinium enhancement in the lateral wall and inferior wall. There was also regional elevation of the myocardial T2 and extracellular volume indicative of myocardial edema. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard A. Sims
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Hannah L. Fish-Trotter
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Daniel E. Clark
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Kathryn A. Gayle
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Sean G. Hughes
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Evan L. Brittain
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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19
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Martins GDC, Barreto MSO, Botelho AFM, Gamba C, Duarte CG, Soto-Blanco B, Bicalho APCV, Cassali GD, Goes AMD, Olórtegui CDC, Melo MM. Evaluation of mesenchymal cells and dapsone for the treatment of dermonecrotic wounds caused by Loxosceles laeta venom in rabbits. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1809-6891v23e-72573e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), alone or associated with dapsone (DAP), in treating dermonecrotic wounds caused by Loxosceles laeta venom. Twenty-five male rabbits were distributed into five groups. Negative control received ultrapure water (C-), whilst all other groups were injected with 20 μg of L. laeta venom. After 4 hours, each group received one of the following treatments: PBS (C+), DAP, MSC, and DAP+MSC. Animals were evaluated daily and photographic records made for analysis of wound area. Twelve days after, animals were euthanized and skin samples removed for histological analysis. We observed that DAP showed the best percentage of wound contraction at day 3. In the treatments using MSCs, a negative value of wound contraction was observed for the isolated MSCs, as well as a lower contraction value for the association of the MSC + DAP when compared to PBS, probably, by the increase in initial infammation after the application of stem cells, due to the fact that MSCs secrete a broad spectrum of bioactive molecules such as cytokines and growth factors that favor regeneration. Histologically, it was observed that animals of C+ showed extensive areas of necrosis, ulcers, neutrophilic infiltrate, and mineralization. Collagen deposition showed increase in MSC+DAP treatment, however vascularization remained unchanged. This is the first report using MSC and MSC+DAP as a treatment for cutaneous loxoscelism and more studies are needed to determine its use as an alternative therapy for dermonecrotic lesions caused by Loxosceles spider.
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20
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Martins GDC, Barreto MSO, Botelho AFM, Gamba C, Duarte CG, Soto-Blanco B, Bicalho APCV, Cassali GD, Goes AMD, Olórtegui CDC, Melo MM. Avaliação de células mesenquimais e dapsona para o tratamento de feridas dermonecróticas causadas pelo veneno de Loxosceles laeta em coelhos. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1809-6891v23e-72573p] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficácia das células-tronco mesenquimais (CTMs), isoladas ou associadas à dapsona (DAP), no tratamento de feridas dermonecróticas causadas pelo veneno de Loxosceles laeta. Vinte e cinco coelhos machos foram distribuídos em cinco grupos. O controle negativo recebeu água ultrapura (C-), enquanto todos os outros grupos foram injetados com 20 μg de veneno de L. laeta. Após 4 horas, cada grupo recebeu um dos seguintes tratamentos: PBS (C+), DAP, CTMs e DAP + CTMs. Os animais foram avaliados diariamente durante 12 dias, e feitos registros fotográficos para análise da ferida e no 12º dia, foram eutanasiados e, retiradas amostras de pele para análise histológica. Observou-se que a DAP apresentou o melhor percentual de contração da ferida no terceiro dia. Nos tratamentos com CTMs, observou-se uma contração negativa da ferida tanto para as CTMs isoladas, bem como a associação CTMs + DAP em relação ao PBS, possivelmente, pelo aumento da infamação inicial após a aplicação de células-tronco. Isso é devido ao fato de que as CTMs secretam um amplo espectro de moléculas bioativas como citocinas e fatores de crescimento que favorecem a regeneração. Histologicamente, observou-se que os animais de C+ apresentaram extensas áreas de necrose, úlceras, infiltrado neutrofílico, além de mineralização. Houve aumento de deposição de colágeno no tratamento CTMs + DAP, no entanto, a vascularização permaneceu inalterada. Este é o primeiro relato usando CTMs e CTMs + DAP como tratamento para loxoscelismo cutâneo e mais estudos são necessários para determinar seu uso como terapia alternativa para lesões demonecróticas causadas pela aranha Loxosceles.
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21
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Borrasca-Fernandes CF, Prado CC, Capitani EMD, Hyslop S, Bucaretchi F. Temporal evolution of dermonecrosis in loxoscelism assessed by photodocumentation. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2022; 55:e0502. [PMID: 35239909 PMCID: PMC8909434 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0502-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Although loxoscelism (bites by brown spiders of the genus Loxosceles) frequently results in dermonecrosis, no previous clinical reports have provided detailed temporal photodocumentation of the evolution of dermonecrotic lesions in a case series. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study involving a case series of loxoscelism. Only cases of dermonecrosis with photodocumentation of lesion evolution (from admission until complete or almost complete healing) were included. Results: Eight patients (six men, two women; median age, 38 years) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The bite sites included the thigh (n = 4), forearm (n = 2), abdomen (n = 1), and trunk (n = 1). Time interval between the bite and first contact with our service ranged from 15 to 216 h (median = 29 h). The main clinical manifestations included local erythematous and ischemic violaceous lesions overlying a base of indurated edema (livedoid plaque, 8), local pain (8), exanthema (6), serohemorrhagic vesicles/blisters (5), fever (5), and jaundice (1). Based on a previously established classification, the cases were classified as probable cutaneous-necrotic loxoscelism (CNL, n = 4), presumptive CNL (n = 3), and presumptive cutaneous-hemolytic loxoscelism (n = 1). Seven patients were treated with anti-arachnidic antivenom (AV; median time post-bite = 46 h). Complete lesion healing ranged from 34 to 98 days post-bite (median, 68 days; six patients). None of the patients required reconstructive plastic surgery. Conclusions The sequential photographic documentation showed considerable variation in the process of wound healing, with complete epithelialization requiring up to 3 months after the bite.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Stephen Hyslop
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Brasil; Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Brasil
| | - Fábio Bucaretchi
- Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Brasil; Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Brasil
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22
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Diochot S. Pain-related toxins in scorpion and spider venoms: a face to face with ion channels. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210026. [PMID: 34925480 PMCID: PMC8667759 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is a common symptom induced during envenomation by spiders and scorpions.
Toxins isolated from their venom have become essential tools for studying the
functioning and physiopathological role of ion channels, as they modulate their
activity. In particular, toxins that induce pain relief effects can serve as a
molecular basis for the development of future analgesics in humans. This review
provides a summary of the different scorpion and spider toxins that directly
interact with pain-related ion channels, with inhibitory or stimulatory effects.
Some of these toxins were shown to affect pain modalities in different animal
models providing information on the role played by these channels in the pain
process. The close interaction of certain gating-modifier toxins with membrane
phospholipids close to ion channels is examined along with molecular approaches
to improve selectivity, affinity or bioavailability in vivo for
therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Diochot
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR 7275 et Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), 06560 Valbonne, France. Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique Université Côte d'Azur Valbonne France
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23
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A protective vaccine against the toxic activities following Brown spider accidents based on recombinant mutated phospholipases D as antigens. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 192:757-770. [PMID: 34634338 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Accidents involving Brown spiders are reported throughout the world. In the venom, the major toxins involved in the deleterious effects are phospholipases D (PLDs). In this work, recombinant mutated phospholipases D from three endemic species medically relevant in South America (Loxosceles intermedia, L. laeta and L. gaucho) were tested as antigens in a vaccination protocol. In such isoforms, key amino acid residues involved in catalysis, magnesium-ion coordination, and binding to substrates were replaced by Alanine (H12A-H47A, E32A-D34A and W230A). These mutations eliminated the phospholipase activity and reduced the generation of skin necrosis and edema to residual levels. Molecular modeling of mutated isoforms indicated that the three-dimensional structures, topologies, and surface charges did not undergo significant changes. Mutated isoforms were recognized by sera against the crude venoms. Vaccination protocols in rabbits using mutated isoforms generated a serum that recognized the native PLDs of crude venoms and neutralized dermonecrosis and edema induced by L. intermedia venom. Vaccination of mice prevented the lethal effects of L. intermedia crude venom. Furthermore, vaccination of rabbits prevented the cutaneous lesion triggered by the three venoms. These results indicate a great potential for mutated recombinant PLDs to be employed as antigens in developing protective vaccines for Loxoscelism.
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24
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Jenkins TP, Ahmadi S, Bittenbinder MA, Stewart TK, Akgun DE, Hale M, Nasrabadi NN, Wolff DS, Vonk FJ, Kool J, Laustsen AH. Terrestrial venomous animals, the envenomings they cause, and treatment perspectives in the Middle East and North Africa. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009880. [PMID: 34855751 PMCID: PMC8638997 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Middle East and Northern Africa, collectively known as the MENA region, are inhabited by a plethora of venomous animals that cause up to 420,000 bites and stings each year. To understand the resultant health burden and the key variables affecting it, this review describes the epidemiology of snake, scorpion, and spider envenomings primarily based on heterogenous hospital data in the MENA region and the pathologies associated with their venoms. In addition, we discuss the venom composition and the key medically relevant toxins of these venomous animals, and, finally, the antivenoms that are currently in use to counteract them. Unlike Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, scorpion stings are significantly more common (approximately 350,000 cases/year) than snakebites (approximately 70,000 cases/year) and present the most significant contributor to the overall health burden of envenomings, with spider bites being negligible. However, this review also indicates that there is a substantial lack of high-quality envenoming data available for the MENA region, rendering many of these estimates speculative. Our understanding of the venoms and the toxins they contain is also incomplete, but already presents clear trends. For instance, the majority of snake venoms contain snake venom metalloproteinases, while sodium channel-binding toxins and potassium channel-binding toxins are the scorpion toxins that cause most health-related challenges. There also currently exist a plethora of antivenoms, yet only few are clinically validated, and their high cost and limited availability present a substantial health challenge. Yet, some of the insights presented in this review might help direct future research and policy efforts toward the appropriate prioritization of efforts and aid the development of future therapeutic solutions, such as next-generation antivenoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy P Jenkins
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Shirin Ahmadi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Matyas A Bittenbinder
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Molecular and Life Sciences, Division of BioAnalytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Centre for Analytical Sciences Amsterdam (CASA), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Trenton K Stewart
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Dilber E Akgun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Eskişehir Osmangazi University, Eskişehir, Turkey
| | - Melissa Hale
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Nafiseh N Nasrabadi
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Centre, Student Research Commitee, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Venomous Animals and Antivenom Production, Razi Vaccine, and Serum Research Institute, Karaj, Iran
| | - Darian S Wolff
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Freek J Vonk
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Institute for Molecular and Life Sciences, Division of BioAnalytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Kool
- Amsterdam Institute for Molecular and Life Sciences, Division of BioAnalytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Centre for Analytical Sciences Amsterdam (CASA), Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Andreas H Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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25
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Starace M, Ferrari T, Bruni F, Patrizi A, Alessandrini A. Report of cutaneous loxoscelism caused by violin spider bite in Northern Italy. Int J Dermatol 2021; 61:e88-e89. [PMID: 34258758 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.15771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Michela Starace
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale (DIMES), Alma Mater Studiorum - University di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Tiziano Ferrari
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Francesca Bruni
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Patrizi
- IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale (DIMES), Alma Mater Studiorum - University di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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26
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Gremski LH, Matsubara FH, da Justa HC, Schemczssen-Graeff Z, Baldissera AB, Schluga PHDC, Leite IDO, Boia-Ferreira M, Wille ACM, Senff-Ribeiro A, Veiga SS. Brown spider venom toxins: what are the functions of astacins, serine proteases, hyaluronidases, allergens, TCTP, serpins and knottins? J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20200188. [PMID: 34377142 PMCID: PMC8314928 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2020-0188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Accidents caused by the bites of brown spiders (Loxosceles) generate a clinical condition that often includes a threatening necrotic skin lesion near the bite site along with a remarkable inflammatory response. Systemic disorders such as hemolysis, thrombocytopenia, and acute renal failure may occur, but are much less frequent than the local damage. It is already known that phospholipases D, highly expressed toxins in Loxosceles venom, can induce most of these injuries. However, this spider venom has a great range of toxins that probably act synergistically to enhance toxicity. The other protein classes remain poorly explored due to the difficulty in obtaining sufficient amounts of them for a thorough investigation. They include astacins (metalloproteases), serine proteases, knottins, translationally controlled tumor proteins (TCTP), hyaluronidases, allergens and serpins. It has already been shown that some of them, according to their characteristics, may participate to some extent in the development of loxoscelism. In addition, all of these toxins present potential application in several areas. The present review article summarizes information regarding some functional aspects of the protein classes listed above, discusses the directions that could be taken to materialize a comprehensive investigation on each of these toxins as well as highlights the importance of exploring the full venom repertoire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiza Helena Gremski
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Hanna Câmara da Justa
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ana Carolina Martins Wille
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology and Genetics, State University of Ponta Grossa (UEPG), Ponta Grossa, PR, Brazil
| | - Andrea Senff-Ribeiro
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Silvio Sanches Veiga
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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27
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Gremski LH, Matsubara FH, Polli NLC, Antunes BC, Schluga PHDC, da Justa HC, Minozzo JC, Wille ACM, Senff-Ribeiro A, Veiga SS. Prospective Use of Brown Spider Venom Toxins as Therapeutic and Biotechnological Inputs. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:706704. [PMID: 34222343 PMCID: PMC8247472 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.706704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Brown spider (genus Loxosceles) venoms are mainly composed of protein toxins used for predation and defense. Bites of these spiders most commonly produce a local dermonecrotic lesion with gravitational spread, edema and hemorrhage, which together are defined as cutaneous loxoscelism. Systemic loxoscelism, such as hematological abnormalities and renal injury, are less frequent but more lethal. Some Loxosceles venom toxins have already been isolated and extensively studied, such as phospholipases D (PLDs), which have been recombinantly expressed and were proven to reproduce toxic activities associated to the whole venom. PLDs have a notable potential to be engineered and converted in non-toxic antigens to produce a new generation of antivenoms or vaccines. PLDs also can serve as tools to discover inhibitors to be used as therapeutic agents. Other Loxosceles toxins have been identified and functionally characterized, such as hyaluronidases, allergen factor, serpin, TCTP and knottins (ICK peptides). All these toxins were produced as recombinant molecules and are biologically active molecules that can be used as tools for the potential development of chemical candidates to tackle many medical and biological threats, acting, for instance, as antitumoral, insecticides, analgesic, antigens for allergy tests and biochemical reagents for cell studies. In addition, these recombinant toxins may be useful to develop a rational therapy for loxoscelism. This review summarizes the main candidates for the development of drugs and biotechnological inputs that have been described in Brown spider venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bruno Cesar Antunes
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil.,Production and Research Center of Immunobiological Products, State Department of Health, Piraquara, Brazil
| | | | | | - João Carlos Minozzo
- Production and Research Center of Immunobiological Products, State Department of Health, Piraquara, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Martins Wille
- Department of Structural, Molecular Biology and Genetics, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa, Brazil
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28
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Schemczssen-Graeff Z, Justa HCD, Nowatzki J, Baldissera AB, Polli NLC, De-Bona E, Rossi IV, Ramirez MI, Minozzo JC, Matsubara FH, Senff-Ribeiro A, Gremski LH, Veiga SS. Description of a serpin toxin in Loxosceles (Brown spider) venoms: Cloning, expression in baculovirus-infected insect cells and functional characterization. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 183:1607-1620. [PMID: 34029585 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.05.129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Several classes of toxins are present in the venom of Brown spiders (Loxosceles genus), some of them are highly expressed and others are less expressed. In this work, we aimed to clone the sequence of a little expressed novel toxin from Loxosceles venom identified as a serine protease inhibitor (serpin), as well as to express and characterize its biochemical and biological properties. It was named LSPILT, derived from Loxoscelesserine protease inhibitor-like toxin. Multiple alignment analysis revealed high identity between LSPILT and other serpin molecules from spiders and crab. LSPILT was produced in baculovirus-infected insect cells, resulting in a 46-kDa protein fused to a His-tag. Immunological assays showed epitopes in LSPILT that resemble native venom toxins of Loxosceles spiders. The inhibitory activity of LSPILT on trypsin was found both by reverse zymography and fluorescent gelatin-degradation assay. Additionally, LSPILT inhibited the complement-dependent lysis of Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes, reduced thrombin-dependent clotting and suppressed B16-F10 melanoma cells migration. Results described herein prove the existence of conserved serpin-like toxins in Loxosceles venoms. The availability of a recombinant serpin enabled the determination of its biological and biochemical properties and indicates potential applications in future studies regarding the pathophysiology of the envenoming or for biotechnological purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hanna Câmara da Justa
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81530-900, PR, Brazil
| | - Jenifer Nowatzki
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81530-900, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | - Elidiana De-Bona
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81530-900, PR, Brazil
| | - Izadora Volpato Rossi
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Paraná, (UFPR), Curitiba 81530-900, PR, Brazil
| | - Marcel Ivan Ramirez
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Paraná, (UFPR), Curitiba 81530-900, PR, Brazil; Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, RJ, Brazil
| | - João Carlos Minozzo
- Center for Production and Research of Immunobiological Products (CPPI), State Department of Health, Piraquara 83302-200, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Andrea Senff-Ribeiro
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81530-900, PR, Brazil
| | - Luiza Helena Gremski
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81530-900, PR, Brazil
| | - Silvio Sanches Veiga
- Department of Cell Biology, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81530-900, PR, Brazil.
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Brown Spiders' Phospholipases-D with Potential Therapeutic Applications: Functional Assessment of Mutant Isoforms. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9030320. [PMID: 33801128 PMCID: PMC8004160 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9030320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Phospholipases-D (PLDs) found in Loxosceles spiders' venoms are responsible for the dermonecrosis triggered by envenomation. PLDs can also induce other local and systemic effects, such as massive inflammatory response, edema, and hemolysis. Recombinant PLDs reproduce all of the deleterious effects induced by Loxosceles whole venoms. Herein, wild type and mutant PLDs of two species involved in accidents-L. gaucho and L. laeta-were recombinantly expressed and characterized. The mutations are related to amino acid residues relevant for catalysis (H12-H47), magnesium ion coordination (E32-D34) and binding to phospholipid substrates (Y228 and Y228-Y229-W230). Circular dichroism and structural data demonstrated that the mutant isoforms did not undergo significant structural changes. Immunoassays showed that mutant PLDs exhibit conserved epitopes and kept their antigenic properties despite the mutations. Both in vitro (sphingomyelinase activity and hemolysis) and in vivo (capillary permeability, dermonecrotic activity, and histopathological analysis) assays showed that the PLDs with mutations H12-H47, E32-D34, and Y228-Y229-W230 displayed only residual activities. Results indicate that these mutant toxins are suitable for use as antigens to obtain neutralizing antisera with enhanced properties since they will be based on the most deleterious toxins in the venom and without causing severe harmful effects to the animals in which these sera are produced.
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30
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Tammaro A, Adebanjo GAR, Chello C, Parisella FR, Reen P, Erasmus HP, Capalbo A, De Marco G. Violin spider: two car mechanic brothers bitten in Rome. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2021; 35:e377-e379. [PMID: 33539559 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.17149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A Tammaro
- NESMOS Dermatology Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G A R Adebanjo
- NESMOS Dermatology Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - C Chello
- NESMOS Dermatology Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - F R Parisella
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, OLD, Australia
| | - P Reen
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, OLD, Australia
| | - H P Erasmus
- Internal Medicine Department, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - A Capalbo
- NESMOS Dermatology Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - G De Marco
- NESMOS Dermatology Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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31
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Justa HCD, Matsubara FH, de-Bona E, Schemczssen-Graeff Z, Polli NLC, de Mari TL, Boia-Ferreira M, Minozzo JC, Wille ACM, Senff-Ribeiro A, Gremski LH, Veiga SS. LALLT (Loxosceles Allergen-Like Toxin) from the venom of Loxosceles intermedia: Recombinant expression in insect cells and characterization as a molecule with allergenic properties. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 164:3984-3999. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.08.212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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32
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Arán-Sekul T, Perčić-Sarmiento I, Valencia V, Olivero N, Rojas JM, Araya JE, Taucare-Ríos A, Catalán A. Toxicological Characterization and Phospholipase D Activity of the Venom of the Spider Sicarius thomisoides. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:E702. [PMID: 33171968 PMCID: PMC7694614 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12110702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Envenomation by Loxosceles spiders (Sicariidae family) has been thoroughly documented. However, little is known about the potential toxicity of members from the Sicarius genus. Only the venom of the Brazilian Sicarius ornatus spider has been toxicologically characterized. In Chile, the Sicarius thomisoides species is widely distributed in desert and semidesert environments, and it is not considered a dangerous spider for humans. This study aimed to characterize the potential toxicity of the Chilean S. thomisoides spider. To do so, specimens of S. thomisoides were captured in the Atacama Desert, the venom was extracted, and the protein concentration was determined. Additionally, the venoms were analyzed by electrophoresis and Western blotting using anti-recombinant L. laeta PLD1 serum. Phospholipase D enzymatic activity was assessed, and the hemolytic and cytotoxic effects were evaluated and compared with those of the L. laeta venom. The S. thomisoides venom was able to hydrolyze sphingomyelin as well as induce complement-dependent hemolysis and the loss of viability of skin fibroblasts with a dermonecrotic effect of the venom in rabbits. The venom of S. thomisoides showed intraspecific variations, with a similar protein pattern as that of L. laeta venom at 32-35 kDa, recognized by serum anti-LlPLD1. In this context, we can conclude that the venom of Sicarius thomisoides is similar to Loxosceles laeta in many aspects, and the dermonecrotic toxin present in their venom could cause severe harm to humans; thus, precautions are necessary to avoid exposure to their bite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Arán-Sekul
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile; (T.A.-S.); (I.P.-S.); (V.V.); (N.O.); (J.M.R.); (J.E.A.)
| | - Ivanka Perčić-Sarmiento
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile; (T.A.-S.); (I.P.-S.); (V.V.); (N.O.); (J.M.R.); (J.E.A.)
| | - Verónica Valencia
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile; (T.A.-S.); (I.P.-S.); (V.V.); (N.O.); (J.M.R.); (J.E.A.)
| | - Nelly Olivero
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile; (T.A.-S.); (I.P.-S.); (V.V.); (N.O.); (J.M.R.); (J.E.A.)
| | - José M. Rojas
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile; (T.A.-S.); (I.P.-S.); (V.V.); (N.O.); (J.M.R.); (J.E.A.)
| | - Jorge E. Araya
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile; (T.A.-S.); (I.P.-S.); (V.V.); (N.O.); (J.M.R.); (J.E.A.)
| | - Andrés Taucare-Ríos
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique 1110939, Chile;
- Centro de Investigación en Medio Ambiente (CENIMA), Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique 1110939, Chile
| | - Alejandro Catalán
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Departamento de Tecnología Médica, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1270300, Chile; (T.A.-S.); (I.P.-S.); (V.V.); (N.O.); (J.M.R.); (J.E.A.)
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33
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Costa TGF, Costal-Oliveira F, de Assis TCS, Lima SA, Martins CA, Finco AB, Veiga SS, Soccol VT, Machado-de-Ávila RA, Figueiredo LFM, Minozzo JC, Kalapothakis E, Guerra-Duarte C, Alvarenga LM, Chávez-Olórtegui C. Engineered antigen containing epitopes from Loxosceles spp. spider toxins induces a monoclonal antibody (Lox-mAb3) against astacin-like metalloproteases. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 162:490-500. [PMID: 32574737 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.06.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Loxoscelism pose a health issue in the South America. The treatment for these accidents is based on the administration of antivenom produced in animals immunized with Loxosceles venom. In this work, a previously produced non-toxic multiepitopic chimeric protein (rMEPlox), composed of epitopes derived from the main toxins families (sphyngomielinase-D, metalloproteases, and hyaluronidases) of Loxosceles spider venoms, was used as antigen to produce monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). A selected anti-rMEPlox mAb (Lox-mAb3) reacted with metalloprotease from L. intermedia venom and showed cross-reactivity with metalloproteses from Brazilian and Peruvian Loxosceles laeta and Loxosceles gaucho venoms in immunoassays. The sequence recognized by Lox-mAb3 (184ENNTRTIGPFDYDSIMLYGAY205) corresponds to the C-terminal region of Astacin-like metalloprotease 1 and the amino acid sequence IGPFDYDSI, conserved among the homologs metalloproteases sequences, is important for antibody recognition. Lox-mAb3 neutralizes the fibrinogenolytic activity caused by metalloprotease from L. intermedia spider venom in vitro, which may lead to a decrease in hemorrhagic disturbances caused by Loxosceles envenomation. Our results show, for the first time, the use of a non-toxic multiepitopic protein for the production of a neutralizing monoclonal antibody against a metalloprotease of medically important Loxosceles venoms. These results contribute for the production improvement of therapeutic antivenom against loxoscelism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara G F Costa
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia and Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Costal-Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia and Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Thamyres C S de Assis
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia and Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Sabrina A Lima
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia and Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Christina A Martins
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia and Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Sílvio S Veiga
- Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - João C Minozzo
- Centro de Pesquisa e Produção de Imunobiológicos (CPPI), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Evanguedes Kalapothakis
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia and Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Clara Guerra-Duarte
- Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, 30510-010 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Carlos Chávez-Olórtegui
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia and Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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34
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Hogan JC, Keifer A, Murphy AE, Beeman G, Hysmith N. Diffuse Erythematous Rash in a Child: A Journey to Diagnosis. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2020; 59:730-735. [PMID: 32075425 DOI: 10.1177/0009922820905856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jared Clay Hogan
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.,The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ashley Keifer
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.,The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Ann Elizabeth Murphy
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA.,The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Gail Beeman
- Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
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35
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Torabi E, Behdani M, Khalaj V, Pooshang Bagheri K, Shahbazzadeh D. Complete neutralization of the lethality of Hemiscorpius lepturus crude venom by a novel anti-recombinant phospholipase D1 IgGs. Toxicon 2020; 183:36-43. [PMID: 32445840 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Treatment of scorpion envenomation is a challenging issue since serotherapy is implemented by administration of polyvalent equine antisera. In our previous study we discovered that recombinant phospholipase D1 (Hl-RecPLD1) is responsible for the lethality of Hemiscorpius lepturus (H. lepturus) venom in mice. Accordingly, this study was aimed to investigate the protectivity of purified anti-Hl-RecPLD1 IgG against the lethality or major complications of H. lepturus venom. The neutralization efficiency of purified anti-Hl-RecPLD1 IgGs against sphingomyelinase activities of the crude venom and Hl-RecPLD1 was also assessed. Anti-Hl-RecPLD1 IgGs at optimum amount of 3.7 mg completely neutralized one Lethal Dose 100 (LD100) of crude venom in mice. The anti-Hl-RecPLD1 IgGs remarkably reduced the necrosis area from 6.5 to 1 cm2 in rabbit derma, induced by the crude venom. The anti-Hl-RecPLD1 IgGs remarkably reduced the sphingomyelinase and hemolytic activities of crude venom as well. In conclusion, a novel rabbit monovalent IgG against Hl-RecPLD1 was able to completely protect the mice against the lethality of H. lepturus crude venom and reduced its toxicity as well. Such monovalent anti-Hl-RecPLD1 IgGs may have potential applications in serotherapy of H. lepturus envenomation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Torabi
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Behdani
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Khalaj
- Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamran Pooshang Bagheri
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Delavar Shahbazzadeh
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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36
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Charitos IA, Pennisi L, Lepore A, Santacroce L. Local Dermonecrosis with Generalized Urticaria Probably Due to Loxosceles rufescens Bite. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2020.4128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The spiders of the Loxosceles genus, commonly denoted as “brown spiders” or “Mediterranean recluse” or “brown recluse,” belong to the spider family Sicariidae, suborder Labidognatha, order Araneida, class Arachnida, and phylum Arthropoda. This spider is widespread in Africa and South/Central America, but it is also distributed in North America, in the West Indies, in the Mediterranean Europe, and in China.
CASE REPORT: Here, we report the case of a severe dermonecrotic loxoscelism identified in Southern Italy, probably due to the bite of Loxosceles rufescens. The patient was a women admitted at hospital ER because of a little skin erythema that evolved toward a severe necrosis and ulceration within 20 days. After clinical and laboratory data excluded other local and systemic diseases, she was treated with a systemic and local therapy using corticosteroids and antibiotics with the diagnosis of loxoscelism. The healing from the local skin lesion occurred within 2 months, but the local pain, weakness, and discomfort lasted for a long time.
CONCLUSION: It is the fisrt time that a possible case of systemic loxoscelism with skin generalized urticaria is reported in Italy.
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Fingermann M, de Roodt AR, Cascone O, Miranda MV. Biotechnological potential of Phospholipase D for Loxosceles antivenom development. Toxicon X 2020; 6:100036. [PMID: 32550591 PMCID: PMC7286061 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2020.100036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Loxoscelism is one of the most important forms of araneism in South America. The Health Authorities from countries with the highest incidence and longer history in registering loxoscelism cases indicate that specific antivenom should be administered during the first hours after the accident, especially in the presence or at risk of the most severe clinical outcome. Current antivenoms are based on immunoglobulins or their fragments, obtained from plasma of hyperimmunized horses. Antivenom has been produced using the same traditional techniques for more than 120 years. Although the whole composition of the spider venom remains unknown, the discovery and biotechnological production of the phospholipase D enzymes represented a milestone for the knowledge of the physiopathology of envenomation and for the introduction of new innovative tools in antivenom production. The fact that this protein is a principal toxin of the venom opens the possibility of replacing the use of whole venom as an immunogen, an attractive alternative considering the laborious techniques and low yields associated with venom extraction. This challenge warrants technological innovation to facilitate production and obtain more effective antidotes. In this review, we compile the reported studies, examining the advances in the expression and application of phospholipase D as a new immunogen and how the new biotechnological tools have introduced some degree of innovation in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matías Fingermann
- Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos (INPB), ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Vélez Sársfield 563, (1282) Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz, 2290, (1425) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Adolfo Rafael de Roodt
- Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos (INPB), ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Vélez Sársfield 563, (1282) Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Área de Zootoxicología, Cátedra de Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Paraguay, 2155, (1113) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Osvaldo Cascone
- Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos (INPB), ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Vélez Sársfield 563, (1282) Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz, 2290, (1425) Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Nanobiotecnología (NANOBIOTEC), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Junín 956, (1113) Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Cátedra de Biotecnología, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Junín 956, (1113) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Victoria Miranda
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz, 2290, (1425) Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Nanobiotecnología (NANOBIOTEC), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Junín 956, (1113) Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Cátedra de Biotecnología, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Junín 956, (1113) Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Soleimani Moez A, H. Sajedi R, Pooshang Bagheri K, Sabatier JM, Shahbazzadeh D. Novel Mutant Phospholipase D from Hemiscorpius lepturus Acts as A Highly Immunogen in BALB/c Mice Against the Lethality of Scorpion Venom. Molecules 2020; 25:E1673. [PMID: 32260428 PMCID: PMC7180795 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25071673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hemiscorpius lepturus (H. lepturus) which belongs to the Scorpionidae family, is the deadliest scorpion in Iran. It causes pathological manifestations like dermonecrosis, hemolysis, renal failure, necrotic ulcers, and in some cases, even death. The venom of this scorpion is well-known for its cytotoxic effects in comparison with the other venomous scorpions which show significant neurotoxic effects. Due to the painless nature of the sting of this scorpion, the clinical symptoms occur in victims 24 to 72 h post-sting. In our previous studies during the last decade, we demonstrated that the medical complications are attributable to the presence of phospholipase D (PLD) as a major toxin in the venom. With the purpose of designing and constructing a vaccine against H. lepturus for humans, animal model experiments were performed. To achieve this goal, non-toxic PLD was developed by mutation of two critical catalytic residues-His12 and His48-into alanines and the product was then denominated mut-rPLD1. The in-vivo tests showed that the mice immunized with interval doses of 10 µg of mut-rPLD1, were completely protected against 10× the LD100 of the venom. In conclusion, this mutant may be an effective vaccine candidate against scorpion envenomation by H. lepturus in future clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abouzar Soleimani Moez
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran P.O. Box 14115-111, Iran;
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran P.O. Box 13169-43351, Iran;
| | - Reza H. Sajedi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran P.O. Box 14115-111, Iran;
| | - Kamran Pooshang Bagheri
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran P.O. Box 13169-43351, Iran;
| | - Jean-Marc Sabatier
- Institute of Neuro Physiopathology (INP), Université d’Aix-Marseille, UMR 7051, Faculté de Pharmacie, 27 Bd Jean Moulin, 13385 Marseille Cedex, France;
| | - Delavar Shahbazzadeh
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran P.O. Box 13169-43351, Iran;
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Lopes PH, Squaiella-Baptistão CC, Marques MOT, Tambourgi DV. Clinical aspects, diagnosis and management of Loxosceles spider envenomation: literature and case review. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:1461-1477. [PMID: 32232511 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02719-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The genus Loxosceles comprises 140 species widely distributed around the world. These spiders are nocturnal, sedentary and remarkably nonaggressive, although they cause accidents in humans with wide degrees of severity, generating signs and symptoms that define the clinical condition known as loxoscelism. Its local signs and symptoms were first reported in 1872, and over the years, a large medical literature has been accumulated; unfortunately, it is not always trustworthy. Assessing the reliability of such information, we reviewed 120 case reports of loxoscelism published in 84 articles over the past 20 years. This search allowed us to gather information on the clinical aspects, diagnosis and treatment of loxoscelism, showing that the severity of these accidents has multiple degrees and that it is influenced by many factors. Thus, coupled with epidemiological and species occurrence information, this study can be a useful tool for the clinical practice of loxoscelism. It may support and provide a multidisciplinary view that should be taken into consideration when establishing the therapeutic approach in cases of Loxosceles envenomation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Hess Lopes
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brazil, 1500, São Paulo, SP, 05503-900, Brazil
| | | | | | - Denise V Tambourgi
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brazil, 1500, São Paulo, SP, 05503-900, Brazil.
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Gremski LH, da Justa HC, da Silva TP, Polli NLC, Antunes BC, Minozzo JC, Wille ACM, Senff-Ribeiro A, Arni RK, Veiga SS. Forty Years of the Description of Brown Spider Venom Phospholipases-D. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12030164. [PMID: 32155765 PMCID: PMC7150852 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12030164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Spiders of the genus Loxosceles, popularly known as Brown spiders, are considered a serious public health issue, especially in regions of hot or temperate climates, such as parts of North and South America. Although the venoms of these arachnids are complex in molecular composition, often containing proteins with distinct biochemical characteristics, the literature has primarily described a family of toxins, the Phospholipases-D (PLDs), which are highly conserved in all Loxosceles species. PLDs trigger most of the major clinical symptoms of loxoscelism i.e., dermonecrosis, thrombocytopenia, hemolysis, and acute renal failure. The key role played by PLDs in the symptomatology of loxoscelism was first described 40 years ago, when researches purified a hemolytic toxin that cleaved sphingomyelin and generated choline, and was referred to as a Sphingomyelinase-D, which was subsequently changed to Phospholipase-D when it was demonstrated that the enzyme also cleaved other cellular phospholipids. In this review, we present the information gleaned over the last 40 years about PLDs from Loxosceles venoms especially with regard to the production and characterization of recombinant isoforms. The history of obtaining these toxins is discussed, as well as their molecular organization and mechanisms of interaction with their substrates. We will address cellular biology aspects of these toxins and how they can be used in the development of drugs to address inflammatory processes and loxoscelism. Present and future aspects of loxoscelism diagnosis will be discussed, as well as their biotechnological applications and actions expected for the future in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luiza Helena Gremski
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, PR, Brazil; (L.H.G.); (H.C.d.J.); (T.P.d.S.); (N.L.C.P.); (B.C.A.); (A.S.-R.)
| | - Hanna Câmara da Justa
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, PR, Brazil; (L.H.G.); (H.C.d.J.); (T.P.d.S.); (N.L.C.P.); (B.C.A.); (A.S.-R.)
| | - Thaís Pereira da Silva
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, PR, Brazil; (L.H.G.); (H.C.d.J.); (T.P.d.S.); (N.L.C.P.); (B.C.A.); (A.S.-R.)
| | - Nayanne Louise Costacurta Polli
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, PR, Brazil; (L.H.G.); (H.C.d.J.); (T.P.d.S.); (N.L.C.P.); (B.C.A.); (A.S.-R.)
| | - Bruno César Antunes
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, PR, Brazil; (L.H.G.); (H.C.d.J.); (T.P.d.S.); (N.L.C.P.); (B.C.A.); (A.S.-R.)
- Centro de Produção e Pesquisa de Imunobiológicos (CPPI), Piraquara 83302-200, PR, Brazil;
| | - João Carlos Minozzo
- Centro de Produção e Pesquisa de Imunobiológicos (CPPI), Piraquara 83302-200, PR, Brazil;
| | - Ana Carolina Martins Wille
- Departamento de Biologia Estrutural, Molecular e Genética, Universidade Estadual de Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa 84030-900, PR, Brazil;
| | - Andrea Senff-Ribeiro
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, PR, Brazil; (L.H.G.); (H.C.d.J.); (T.P.d.S.); (N.L.C.P.); (B.C.A.); (A.S.-R.)
| | - Raghuvir Krishnaswamy Arni
- Centro Multiusuário de Inovação Biomolecular, Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto 15054-000, SP, Brazil;
| | - Silvio Sanches Veiga
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade Federal do Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba 81531-980, PR, Brazil; (L.H.G.); (H.C.d.J.); (T.P.d.S.); (N.L.C.P.); (B.C.A.); (A.S.-R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-(41)-3361-1776
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From taxonomy to molecular characterization of brown spider venom: An overview focused on Loxosceles similis. Toxicon 2020; 173:5-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Guglielmetti A, Jahr C, Gompertz-Mattar M. Autologous fibroblasts for the treatment of cutaneous loxoscelism: First experience. Int Wound J 2019; 16:1503-1505. [PMID: 31531944 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.13222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Several treatments have been described for cutaneous loxoscelism (CL), but the quality of available evidence is insufficient for the elaboration of a therapeutic consensus. Dapsone has shown beneficial effects on stopping the inflammatory phenomenon and accelerating the recovery. It is recommended to start dapsone once the visceral involvement is ruled out if glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase levels are normal. Autologous fibroblast (AF) therapy is a novel therapy that has been successfully used in bioengineering as skin substitutes for surgical wounds and burns, diabetic and pressure ulcers, and other aesthetic purposes. Interestingly, there are no reports of AFs in CL. We present a case of CL in which the necrotic process was stabilised with dapsone, but the healing of the ulcer was not achieved. Three weekly applications of AFs 100 000/cm2 were performed on a biocompatible polymer matrix, with optimal response within 2 months. This represents the first report of AFs in CL, setting the stage for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Catalina Jahr
- Department of Dermatology, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Matías Gompertz-Mattar
- Department of Dermatology, Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Medina-Santos R, Guerra-Duarte C, de Almeida Lima S, Costal-Oliveira F, Alves de Aquino P, Oliveira do Carmo A, Ferreyra CB, Gonzalez-Kozlova EE, Kalapothakis E, Chávez-Olórtegui C. Diversity of astacin-like metalloproteases identified by transcriptomic analysis in Peruvian Loxosceles laeta spider venom and in vitro activity characterization. Biochimie 2019; 167:81-92. [PMID: 31476328 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2019.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Loxosceles spiders are found in almost all countries of South America. In Peru, Loxosceles laeta species is the main responsible for the accidents caused by poisonous animals, being known as "killer spiders", due to the large number of fatal accidents observed. Astacin-like metalloproteases, named LALPs (Loxosceles astacin-like metalloproteases) are highly expressed in Loxosceles spiders venom gland. These proteases may be involved in hemorrhage and venom spreading, being relevant to the envenoming proccess. Thus, the aim of this work was to analyze Peruvian L. laeta venom gland transcripts using bioinformatics tools, focusing on LALPs. A cDNA library from Peruvian L. laeta venom glands was constructed and sequenced by MiSeq (Illumina) sequencer. After assembly, the resulting sequences were annotated, seeking out for similarity with previously described LALPs. Nine possible LALPs isoforms from Peruvian L. laeta venom were identified and the results were validated by in silico and in vitro experiments. This study contributes to a better understanding of the molecular diversity of Loxosceles venom and provide insights about the action of LALPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raíssa Medina-Santos
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil; Genetic, Ecology and Evolution Department, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - César Bonilla Ferreyra
- Univesidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Facultad de Odontología, Lima, Peru; Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Peru
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Abbott DM, Brunetti E, Barruscotti S, Brazzelli V. Brown recluse ( L. rufescens) can bite in Northern Italy, too: first case report and review of the literature. BMJ Case Rep 2019; 12:12/8/e230000. [PMID: 31401585 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2019-230000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The brown recluse, or fiddleback (violin) spider, is a poisonous spider of the Loxosceles genus that resides in warmer regions and old structures making the warm Mediterranean climate a natural habitat for the European species, L. rufescens Even in infested households, however, bites are rare, as they are nocturnal and unaggressive. In 2015, the first supposed death by L. rufescens occurred in Italy, but before and even after such bite, the literature on these spiders has been under-represented. This case report documents a confirmed bite by a violin spider on a medical student in Pavia, Italy. The presentation in this case was initially with general systemic, flu-like symptoms, then as cellulitis with lymphangitis that persisted for nearly 2 weeks until resolving without prolonged or complicated pathology. We present the first documented case of a L. rufescens bite in Northern Italy, to the best of our knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Michael Abbott
- Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic, and Pediatric Sciences, Institute of Dermatology, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Enrico Brunetti
- Unit of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Stefania Barruscotti
- Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic, and Pediatric Sciences, Institute of Dermatology, PhD Experimental Medicine, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valeria Brazzelli
- Department of Clinical-Surgical, Diagnostic, and Pediatric Sciences, Institute of Dermatology, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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Brown Spider ( Loxosceles) Venom Toxins as Potential Biotools for the Development of Novel Therapeutics. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11060355. [PMID: 31248109 PMCID: PMC6628458 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11060355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Brown spider envenomation results in dermonecrosis with gravitational spreading characterized by a marked inflammatory reaction and with lower prevalence of systemic manifestations such as renal failure and hematological disturbances. Several toxins make up the venom of these species, and they are mainly peptides and proteins ranging from 5–40 kDa. The venoms have three major families of toxins: phospholipases-D, astacin-like metalloproteases, and the inhibitor cystine knot (ICK) peptides. Serine proteases, serpins, hyaluronidases, venom allergens, and a translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) are also present. Toxins hold essential biological properties that enable interactions with a range of distinct molecular targets. Therefore, the application of toxins as research tools and clinical products motivates repurposing their uses of interest. This review aims to discuss possibilities for brown spider venom toxins as putative models for designing molecules likely for therapeutics based on the status quo of brown spider venoms. Herein, we explore new possibilities for the venom components in the context of their biochemical and biological features, likewise their cellular targets, three-dimensional structures, and mechanisms of action.
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Ribeiro MF, de Oliveira FL, Souza AM, Machado TDB, Cardoso PF, Patti A, Nascimento AS, de Souza CMV, Elias SC. Effects of copaiba oil on dermonecrosis induced by Loxosceles intermedia venom. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2019; 25:e149318. [PMID: 31131009 PMCID: PMC6521710 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-1493-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Accidents caused by spiders of the genus Loxosceles
constitute an important public health problem in Brazil. The venom of
Loxosceles sp induces dermonecrosis at the bite site
and systemic disease in severe cases. Traditional medicine based on
plant-derived products has been proven to reduce the local effects of
envenomation. The present study verified the healing effects of copaiba oil
on lesions induced by the venom of L. intermedia. Methods: Cutaneous lesions were induced on the backs of rabbits by intradermal
injection of L. intermedia venom. Copaiba oil was applied
topically 6 hours after injection; the treatment was repeated for 30 days,
after which animal skins were removed and processed for histopathological
analysis. Blood samples were also collected before and 24 hours after venom
inoculation to measure the hematological parameters. Results: Compared to the control group, the platelet count was reduced significantly
in all groups inoculated with venom, accompanied by a decreased number of
heterophils in the blood. The minimum necrotic dose (MND) was defined as 2.4
μg/kg. Topical treatment with copaiba oil demonstrated a differentiated
healing profile: large skin lesions were observed 10 days after venom
inoculation, whereas formation of a thick crust, without scarring was
observed 30 days after venom inoculation. Histopathological analysis showed
no significant difference after treatment. Nevertheless, the copaiba oil
treatment induced a collagen distribution similar to control skin, in marked
contrast to the group that received only the spider venom injection. Conclusions: We conclude that copaiba oil may interfere in the healing process and thus
propose it as a possible topical treatment for cutaneous lesions induced by
L. intermedia venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Fernandes Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Pharmacology; Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Administration; School of Pharmacy; Fluminense Federal University; Niterói - RJ, Brazil
| | - Felipe Leite de Oliveira
- Laboratory for Cellular Proliferation and Differentiation; Institute of Biomedical Sciences; Federal University of Rio de Janeiro; Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Aline Moreira Souza
- Laboratory for Veterinary Clinical Pathology; Department of Pathology and Veterinary Clinics; School of Veterinary Medicine; Fluminense Federal University; Niterói - RJ, Brazil
| | - Thelma de Barros Machado
- Laboratory of Physiochemical Quality Control; Department of Pharmaceutical Technology; School of Pharmacy; Fluminense Federal University; Niterói - RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Andrea Patti
- Biotherium; Scientific Directorship; Vital Brazil Institute; Niterói - RJ, Brazil
| | - Angélica Silveira Nascimento
- Laboratory of Pharmacology; Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Administration; School of Pharmacy; Fluminense Federal University; Niterói - RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Sabrina Calil Elias
- Laboratory of Pharmacology; Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Administration; School of Pharmacy; Fluminense Federal University; Niterói - RJ, Brazil
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Design and Production of a Recombinant Hybrid Toxin to Raise Protective Antibodies Against Loxosceles Spider Venom. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11020108. [PMID: 30759862 PMCID: PMC6409891 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11020108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Human accidents with spiders of the genus Loxosceles are an important health problem affecting thousands of people worldwide. Patients evolve to severe local injuries and, in many cases, to systemic disturbances as acute renal failure, in which cases antivenoms are considered to be the most effective treatment. However, for antivenom production, the extraction of the venom used in the immunization process is laborious and the yield is very low. Thus, many groups have been exploring the use of recombinant Loxosceles toxins, particularly phospholipases D (PLDs), to produce the antivenom. Nonetheless, some important venom activities are not neutralized by anti-PLD antibodies. Astacin-like metalloproteases (ALMPs) are the second most expressed toxin acting on the extracellular matrix, indicating the importance of its inclusion in the antigen’s formulation to provide a better antivenom. Here we show the construction of a hybrid recombinant immunogen, called LgRec1ALP1, composed of hydrophilic regions of the PLD and the ALMP toxins from Loxosceles gaucho. Although the LgRec1ALP1 was expressed as inclusion bodies, it resulted in good yields and it was effective to produce neutralizing antibodies in mice. The antiserum neutralized fibrinogenolytic, platelet aggregation and dermonecrotic activities elicited by L. gaucho, L. laeta, and L. intermedia venoms, indicating that the hybrid recombinant antigen may be a valuable source for the production of protective antibodies against Loxosceles ssp. venoms. In addition, the hybrid recombinant toxin approach may enrich and expand the alternative antigens for antisera production for other venoms.
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Brown Recluse Spider Bites in Patients With Neutropenia: A Single-institution Experience. J Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2019; 41:28-33. [PMID: 30028826 PMCID: PMC6295234 DOI: 10.1097/mph.0000000000001253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Brown recluse spider bites can cause local and systemic signs, including rash, dermonecrosis, edema, hemolysis, and acute kidney failure. These are mostly attributed to sphingomyelinase D, the main toxin. To evaluate the severity of the disease in pediatric patients with and without neutropenia, we retrospectively reviewed records of patients treated at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital between 1970 and 2015 and identified 19 patients who met the inclusion criteria. Variables of interest included the type of underlying illness, presence of neutropenia, number of days of hospitalization, disease signs and outcome of the bite, and treatments administered. We used descriptive statistics to summarize the manifestations and severity of spider bites in patients with and without neutropenia. Six patients experienced pain from the bite, 11 had erythema, 7 developed edema, and 5 had fever. The response to spider bites in neutropenic patients was no milder than that in non-neutropenic individuals. Six patients developed systemic complications. Compared with non-neutropenic patients, neutropenic patients had antibiotics prescribed more often and experienced longer hospital stays. Spider bites do not seem to have a different clinical course in neutropenic patients. Therefore, a conservative approach may be best for these patients, with close monitoring and local wound care.
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Massa M, Planas E, Ribera C. The Mediterranean as a melting pot: Phylogeography of Loxosceles rufescens (Sicariidae) in the Mediterranean Basin. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0210093. [PMID: 30596790 PMCID: PMC6312272 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0210093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The species Loxosceles rufescens is native to the Mediterranean but considered cosmopolitan because it has been dispersed worldwide. A previous study revealed 11 evolutionary lineages across the Mediterranean, grouped into two main clades, without any clear phylogeographic pattern. The high genetic diversity within this species (p-distances of up to 7.8% in some Mediterranean lineages), together with the results obtained with different species delimitation methods (GMYC, TCS) could indicate the existence of cryptic species. Here we compare the mitochondrial and microsatellite diversity to elucidate if the lineages of L. rufescens in the Mediterranean should be considered different species (cryptic species) or populations of the same species. To do so, we analyzed the cox1 diversity of 196 individuals, of which, we genotyped 148, sampled from 19 localities across the Mediterranean. STRUCTURE analyses of microsatellite data identified two genetic clusters of L. rufescens. One cluster included individuals from Western Mediterranean localities (Iberian Peninsula, Morocco, Balearic Islands) and Israel, while the second one grouped individuals from Italian and Greek localities, including Sardinia, Sicily and Tunisia. These patterns suggest that geographic proximity is the more significant factor in the clustering with microsatellite data and shows the existence of gene flow between the nearest geographic areas, even if the individuals belong to different mitochondrial lineages or clades. The lack of correspondence between both genetic markers suggests that the evolutionary lineages found within L. rufescens should not be considered different species. We conclude that these phylogenetic linages and their distribution may be the result of the maternal evolutionary history of the species and human-mediated dispersion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Massa
- Departament de Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals and Institut de Recerca de la Biodiversitat (IRBio), Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enric Planas
- Departament de Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals and Institut de Recerca de la Biodiversitat (IRBio), Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carles Ribera
- Departament de Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals and Institut de Recerca de la Biodiversitat (IRBio), Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- * E-mail:
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