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Neri-Castro E, Zarzosa V, Lomonte B, Zamudio F, Hernandez-Orihuela L, Olvera-Rodríguez A, Rodríguez-Solís AM, Borja M, García-Vázquez UO, Jones JM, Parkinson CL, Alagón A. Exploring venom diversity in Mixcoatlus browni and Mixcoatlus barbouri: A comparative analysis of two rare Mexican snake species with crotoxin-like presence. Biochimie 2024; 225:81-88. [PMID: 38762000 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.05.015] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
The genus Mixcoatlus is composed of three species: Mixcoatlus barbouri, M. browni, and M. melanurus, of which the venom composition of M. melanurus, the most common species of the three, has only recently been described. However, very little is known about the natural history of M. barbouri and M. browni, and the venom composition of these two species has remained thus far unexplored. In this study we characterize the proteomic profiles and the main biochemical and toxic activities of these two venoms. Proteomic data obtained by shotgun analysis of whole venom identified 12 protein families for M. barbouri, and 13 for M. browni. The latter venom was further characterized by using a quantitative 'venomics' protocol, which revealed that it is mainly composed of 51.1 % phospholipases A2 (PLA2), 25.5 % snake venom serine proteases (SVSP), 4.6 % l-amino oxidases (LAO), and 3.6 % snake venom metalloproteases (SVMP), with lower percentages other six protein families. Both venoms contained homologs of the basic and acidic subunits of crotoxin. However, due to limitations in M. barbouri venom availability, we could only characterize the crotoxin-like protein of M. browni venom, which we have named Mixcoatlutoxin. It exhibited a lethal potency in mice like that described for classical rattlesnake crotoxins. These findings expand knowledge on the distribution of crotoxin-like heterodimeric proteins in viper snake species. Further investigation of the bioactivities of the venom of M. barbouri, on the other hand, remains necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Neri-Castro
- Investigador por México, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Avenida Universidad s/n. Fracc. Filadelfia, C.P. 35010, Gómez Palacio, Dgo, Mexico; Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor, Mexico.
| | - Vanessa Zarzosa
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor, Mexico
| | - Bruno Lomonte
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, 11501, Costa Rica
| | - Fernando Zamudio
- Investigador por México, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Avenida Universidad s/n. Fracc. Filadelfia, C.P. 35010, Gómez Palacio, Dgo, Mexico
| | - Lorena Hernandez-Orihuela
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Olvera-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor, Mexico
| | - Audrey Michelle Rodríguez-Solís
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor, Mexico
| | - Miguel Borja
- Investigador por México, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Avenida Universidad s/n. Fracc. Filadelfia, C.P. 35010, Gómez Palacio, Dgo, Mexico
| | - Uri O García-Vázquez
- Laboratorio de Sistemática Molecular, Carrera de Biología, UMIEZ, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Batalla 5 de Mayo s/n, Ejército de Oriente, Ciudad de México, 09230, Mexico
| | | | - Chistopher L Parkinson
- Department of Biological Sciences and Department of Forestry, and Environmental Conservation, Clemson University, 190 Collings St. Clemson, SC, 29631, USA
| | - Alejandro Alagón
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor, Mexico.
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Zarzosa V, Lomonte B, Zamudio F, Ponce-López R, Olvera-Rodríguez F, Borja M, Alagón A, Neri-Castro E. Venom of the neotropical rattlesnake, Crotalus culminatus: Intraspecific variation, neutralization by antivenoms, and immunogenicity in rabbits. Biochimie 2024; 216:160-174. [PMID: 37890695 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.10.014] [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: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Crotalus culminatus is a medically significant species of rattlesnake in Mexico [1]. While the proteomic composition of its venom has been previously reported for both juvenile and adult specimens, there has been limited research into its functional properties, with only a few studies, including one focusing on coagulotoxicity mechanisms. In this study, we aimed to compare the biochemical and biological activities of the venom of juvenile and adult snakes. Additionally, we assessed antibody production using the venoms of juveniles and adults as immunogens in rabbits. Our findings reveal lethality and proteolytic activity differences between the venoms of juveniles and adults. Notably, juvenile venoms exhibited high proportions of crotamine, while adult venoms displayed a reduction of this component. A commercially available antivenom demonstrated effective neutralization of lethality of both juvenile and adult venoms in mice. However, it failed to neutralize the paralytic activity induced by crotamine, which, in contrast, was successfully inhibited by antibodies obtained from hyperimmunized rabbits. These results suggest the potential inclusion of C. culminatus venom from juveniles in commercial antivenom immunization schemes to generate antibodies targeting this small myotoxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Zarzosa
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor., Mexico
| | - Bruno Lomonte
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, 11501, Costa Rica
| | - Fernando Zamudio
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor., Mexico
| | - Roberto Ponce-López
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor., Mexico
| | - Felipe Olvera-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor., Mexico
| | - Miguel Borja
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Avenida Universidad s/n, Fracc, Filadelfia, C.P. 35010, Gómez Palacio, Dgo., Mexico
| | - Alejandro Alagón
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor., Mexico.
| | - Edgar Neri-Castro
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Avenida Universidad s/n, Fracc, Filadelfia, C.P. 35010, Gómez Palacio, Dgo., Mexico; Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad 2001, Chamilpa, C.P. 62210, Cuernavaca, Mor., Mexico.
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Amorim FG, Silva TA, de Oliveira Almeida G, Redureau D, Cabral H, Quinton L, Sampaio SV. Isolation and characterization of the first phosphodiesterase (Bj-PDE) from the venom of Bothrops jararacussu snake. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 235:123793. [PMID: 36828087 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterases are exonucleases that sequentially hydrolyse phosphodiester bonds of polynucleotides from the 3'-end and release 5-mononucleotides. After more than one decade without any advance in the study of Bothropic phosphodiesterases, we described here the isolation of the first phosphodiesterase from Bothrops jararacussu, which we named Bj-PDE. A five-step column chromatography procedure (size exclusion, hydrophobic interaction, cation exchange, lentil lectin affinity, and blue sepharose affinity) enabled isolation of Bj-PDE with preserved and stable enzymatic activity (bis(p-nitrophenyl) phosphate substrate), Km = 6.9 mM (± 0.7 mM), kcat/Km = 1.7 × 104 M-1 s-1 (± 0.2 × 104 M-1 s-1), MW = 116 kDa (SDS-PAGE), optimum activity around 45 °C at pH 8.0, and stability for 81 days at different storage temperatures (8, -20, and - 80 °C). Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions positively influenced Bj-PDE activity, while EDTA had the opposite action. Zn2+ restored >50 % of enzyme activity after its inhibition by EDTA. The Bj-PDE partial sequence identified by mass spectrometry was very similar to the sequence of BATXPDE1 from Bothrops atrox, which was evolutionarily close to this new PDE. Therefore, our study represents an important progress on the isolation of this minor toxin and sheds new lights on the properties and bioprospection of bothropic phosphodiesterases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda Gobbi Amorim
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.
| | - Thiago Abrahão Silva
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café s/n°, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Gabriela de Oliveira Almeida
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café s/n°, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Damien Redureau
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.
| | - Hamilton Cabral
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Loïc Quinton
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium.
| | - Suely Vilela Sampaio
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café s/n°, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Colis-Torres A, Neri-Castro E, Strickland JL, Olvera-Rodríguez A, Borja M, Calvete J, Jones J, Parkinson CL, Bañuelos J, López de León J, Alagón A. Intraspecific venom variation of Mexican West Coast Rattlesnakes (Crotalus basiliscus) and its implications for antivenom production. Biochimie 2021; 192:111-124. [PMID: 34656669 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Intraspecific variation in snake venoms has been widely documented worldwide. However, there are few studies on this subject in Mexico. Venom characterization studies provide important data used to predict clinical syndromes, to evaluate the efficacy of antivenoms and, in some cases, to improve immunogenic mixtures in the production of antivenoms. In the present work, we evaluated the intraspecific venom variation of Crotalus basiliscus, a rattlesnake of medical importance and whose venom is used in the immunization of horses to produce one of the Mexican antivenoms. Our results demonstrate that there is variation in biological and biochemical activities among adult venoms and that there is an ontogenetic change from juvenile to adult venoms. Juvenile venoms were more lethal and had higher percentages of crotamine and crotoxin, while adult venoms had higher percentages of snake venom metalloproteases (SVMPs). Additionally, we documented crotoxin-like PLA2 variation in which specimens from Zacatecas, Sinaloa and Michoacán (except 1) lacked the neurotoxin, while the rest of the venoms had it. Finally, we evaluated the efficacy of three lots of Birmex antivenom and all three were able to neutralize the lethality of four representative venoms but were not able to neutralize crotamine. We also observed significant differences in the LD50 values neutralized per vial among the different lots. Based on these results, we recommend including venoms containing crotamine in the production of antivenom for a better immunogenic mixture and to improve the homogeneity of lots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Colis-Torres
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Edgar Neri-Castro
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Jason L Strickland
- Department of Biology, University of South Alabama, 5871 USA Dr. N, Mobile, AL, 36688, USA
| | - Alejandro Olvera-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Miguel Borja
- Facultad Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Av. Universidad s/n. Fracc. Filadelfia, C.P. 35010, Gómez Palacio, Dgo, Mexico
| | - Juan Calvete
- Laboratorio de Venómica Evolutiva y Traslacional, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Jaime Roig 11, 46010, Valencia, Spain
| | - Jason Jones
- Herp.mx A.C, Villa del Álvarez, Colima, Mexico
| | - Christopher L Parkinson
- Department of Biological Sciences and Department of Forestry, and Environmental Conservation, Clemson University, 190 Collings St. Clemson, SC, 29631, USA
| | - Jorge Bañuelos
- Herp.mx A.C, Villa del Álvarez, Colima, Mexico; Unidad Académica de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Edificio de Biología Campus II Ave. Preparatoria S/N, Col. Agronómica, 98066, ZacatecasZacatecas, Mexico
| | - Jorge López de León
- Hospital General Norberto Treviño Zapata, Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Alagón
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
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5
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Puzari U, Mukherjee AK. Recent developments in diagnostic tools and bioanalytical methods for analysis of snake venom: A critical review. Anal Chim Acta 2020; 1137:208-224. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2020.07.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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6
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Toxinological characterization of venom from Leptodeira annulata (Banded cat-eyed snake; Dipsadidae, Imantodini). Biochimie 2020; 174:171-188. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2020.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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7
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Disintegrins extracted from totonacan rattlesnake (Crotalus totonacus) venom and their anti-adhesive and anti-migration effects on MDA-MB-231 and HMEC-1 cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2020; 65:104809. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2020.104809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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8
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Unveiling toxicological aspects of venom from the Aesculapian False Coral Snake Erythrolamprus aesculapii. Toxicon 2019; 164:71-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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9
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Kalita B, Mukherjee AK. Recent advances in snake venom proteomics research in India: a new horizon to decipher the geographical variation in venom proteome composition and exploration of candidate drug prototypes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s42485-019-00014-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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10
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Rex CJ, Mackessy SP. Venom composition of adult Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox) maintained under controlled diet and environmental conditions shows only minor changes. Toxicon 2019; 164:51-60. [PMID: 30954451 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2019.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Many species of snakes produce venom as a chemical means of procuring potentially fractious prey. Studies have increasingly focused on venom compositional variation between and within individual snakes of the same species/subspecies, with significant differences often being observed. This variation in composition has been attributed to differences in age, season, diet, and environment, suggesting that these factors could help explain the inter- and intra-specific variation found in some snake venoms, perhaps via some type of feedback mechanism(s). To address several of these possible sources of variation, this study utilized wild-caught Western Diamondback Rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox) from Cochise Co., AZ. Sixteen adult C. atrox were maintained in the lab on a diet of NSA mice for eight months to determine whether venom composition changed in captivity under a static diet in a stable environment. Reducing 1-D SDS-PAGE, fibrinogen degradation assays, reversed-phase HPLC, and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry revealed only minor differences over time within individuals. Venom L-amino acid oxidase (LAAO) and phosphodiesterase activities significantly increased over the course of captivity, with no changes occurring in azocasein metalloproteinase, kallikrein-like serine proteinase (KLSP), or thrombin-like serine proteinase (TLSP) activities. Snake total length was positively correlated with TLSP activity and negatively correlated with LAAO and KLSP activity. There was typically a much higher degree of variation between individuals than within individuals for all analyses performed and measurements collected. Because the overall "fingerprint" of each snake's venom remained more/less constant, it is concluded that biologically significant changes in venom composition did not occur within individual C. atrox as a function of captivity/diet. However, this study does indicate that differences in activity levels do occur in minor venom enzyme components, but the differences observed are likely to be of minimal significance to the production of antivenom or to subsequent treatment of human envenomations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Rex
- Department of Biological Sciences, 501 20th St., University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO, 80639-0017, USA
| | - Stephen P Mackessy
- Department of Biological Sciences, 501 20th St., University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO, 80639-0017, USA.
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11
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Torres-Bonilla KA, Andrade-Silva D, Serrano SMT, Hyslop S. Biochemical characterization of venom from Pseudoboa neuwiedii (Neuwied's false boa; Xenodontinae; Pseudoboini). Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2018; 213:27-38. [PMID: 29966733 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2018.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In this work, we examined the proteolytic and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activities of venom from the opisthoglyphous colubrid Pseudoboa neuwiedii. Proteolytic activity (3 and 10 μg of venom) was comparable to that of Bothrops neuwiedii venom but less than Bothrops atrox. This activity was inhibited by EDTA and 1,10-phenanthroline but only slightly affected (≤30% inhibition) by PMSF and AEBSF, indicating it was mediated by snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs). The pH and temperature optima for proteolytic activity were 8.0 and 37 °C, respectively. The venom had no esterase activity, whereas PLA2 activity was similar to B. atrox, greater than B. neuwiedii but less than B. jararacussu. SDS-PAGE revealed venom proteins >100 kDa, 45-70 kDa, 21-24 kDa and ~15 kDa, and mass spectrometry of protein bands revealed SVMPs, cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISPs) and PLA2, but no serine proteinases. In gelatin zymography, the most active bands occurred at 65-68 kDa (seen with 0.05-0.25 μg of venom). Caseinolytic activity occurred at 50-66 kDa and was generally weaker than gelatinolytic activity. RP-HPLC of venom yielded 15 peaks, five of which showed gelatinolytic activity; peak 7 was the most active and apparently contained a P-III class SVMP. The venom showed α-fibrinogenase activity, without affecting the β and γ chains; this activity was inhibited by EDTA and 1,10-phenanthroline. The venom did not clot rat citrated plasma but reduced the rate and extent of coagulation after plasma recalcification. In conclusion, P. neuwiedii venom is highly proteolytic and could potentially affect coagulation in vivo by degrading fibrinogen via SVMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian A Torres-Bonilla
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Rua Tessália Vieira de Camargo, 126, Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, 13083-887 Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Débora Andrade-Silva
- Laboratório Especial de Toxinologia Aplicada, Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS), Instituto Butantan, Avenida Brazil 1500, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Solange M T Serrano
- Laboratório Especial de Toxinologia Aplicada, Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS), Instituto Butantan, Avenida Brazil 1500, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Stephen Hyslop
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Rua Tessália Vieira de Camargo, 126, Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, 13083-887 Campinas, SP, Brazil.
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12
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Modahl CM, Frietze S, Mackessy SP. Transcriptome-facilitated proteomic characterization of rear-fanged snake venoms reveal abundant metalloproteinases with enhanced activity. J Proteomics 2018; 187:223-234. [PMID: 30092380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
High-throughput technologies were used to identify venom gland toxin expression and to characterize the venom proteomes of two rear-fanged snakes, Ahaetulla prasina (Asian Green Vine Snake) and Borikenophis portoricensis (Puerto Rican Racer). Sixty-nine complete toxin-coding transcripts from 12 venom protein superfamilies (A. prasina) and 50 complete coding transcripts from 11 venom protein superfamilies (B. portoricensis) were identified in the venom glands. However, only 18% (A. prasina) and 32% (B. portoricensis) of the translated protein isoforms were detected in the proteome of these venoms. Both venom gland transcriptomes and venom proteomes were dominated by P-III metalloproteinases. Three-finger toxins, cysteine-rich secretory proteins, and C-type lectins were present in moderate amounts, but other protein superfamilies showed very low abundances. Venoms contained metalloproteinase activity comparable to viperid snake venom levels, but other common venom enzymes were absent or present at negligible levels. Western blot analysis showed metalloproteinase and cysteine-rich secretory protein epitopes shared with the highly venomous Boomslang (Dispholidus typus). The abundance of metalloproteinases emphasizes the important trophic role of these toxins. Comprehensive, transcriptome-informed definition of proteomes and functional characterization of venom proteins in rear-fanged snake families help to elucidate toxin evolution and provide models for protein structure-function analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra M Modahl
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th St., Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543, Singapore
| | - Seth Frietze
- Department of Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of Vermont, 302 Rowell, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
| | - Stephen P Mackessy
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th St., Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA.
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Modahl CM, Mrinalini, Frietze S, Mackessy SP. Adaptive evolution of distinct prey-specific toxin genes in rear-fanged snake venom. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 285:rspb.2018.1003. [PMID: 30068680 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.1003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Venom proteins evolve rapidly, and as a trophic adaptation are excellent models for predator-prey evolutionary studies. The key to a deeper understanding of venom evolution is an integrated approach, combining prey assays with analysis of venom gene expression and venom phenotype. Here, we use such an approach to study venom evolution in the Amazon puffing snake, Spilotes sulphureus, a generalist feeder. We identify two novel three-finger toxins: sulditoxin and sulmotoxin 1. These new toxins are not only two of the most abundant venom proteins, but are also functionally intriguing, displaying distinct prey-specific toxicities. Sulditoxin is highly toxic towards lizard prey, but is non-toxic towards mammalian prey, even at greater than 22-fold higher dosage. By contrast, sulmotoxin 1 exhibits the reverse trend. Furthermore, evolutionary analysis and structural modelling show highest sequence variability in the central loop of these proteins, probably driving taxon-specific toxicity. This is, to our knowledge, the first case in which a bimodal and contrasting pattern of toxicity has been shown for proteins in the venom of a single snake in relation to diet. Our study is an example of how toxin gene neofunctionalization can result in a venom system dominated by one protein superfamily and still exhibit flexibility in prey capture efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra M Modahl
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th Street, Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA
| | - Mrinalini
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117543, Republic of Singapore
| | - Seth Frietze
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th Street, Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA
| | - Stephen P Mackessy
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th Street, Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA
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14
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Sánchez MN, Teibler GP, López CA, Mackessy SP, Peichoto ME. Assessment of the potential toxicological hazard of the Green Parrot Snake (Leptophis ahaetulla marginatus): Characterization of its venom and venom-delivery system. Toxicon 2018; 148:202-212. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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15
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Dobson J, Yang DC, Op den Brouw B, Cochran C, Huynh T, Kurrupu S, Sánchez EE, Massey DJ, Baumann K, Jackson TNW, Nouwens A, Josh P, Neri-Castro E, Alagón A, Hodgson WC, Fry BG. Rattling the border wall: Pathophysiological implications of functional and proteomic venom variation between Mexican and US subspecies of the desert rattlesnake Crotalus scutulatus. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2018; 205:62-69. [PMID: 29074260 PMCID: PMC5825281 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2017] [Revised: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
While some US populations of the Mohave rattlesnake (Crotalus scutulatus scutulatus) are infamous for being potently neurotoxic, the Mexican subspecies C. s. salvini (Huamantlan rattlesnake) has been largely unstudied beyond crude lethality testing upon mice. In this study we show that at least some populations of this snake are as potently neurotoxic as its northern cousin. Testing of the Mexican antivenom Antivipmyn showed a complete lack of neutralisation for the neurotoxic effects of C. s. salvini venom, while the neurotoxic effects of the US subspecies C. s. scutulatus were time-delayed but ultimately not eliminated. These results document unrecognised potent neurological effects of a Mexican snake and highlight the medical importance of this subspecies, a finding augmented by the ineffectiveness of the Antivipmyn antivenom. These results also influence our understanding of the venom evolution of Crotalus scutulatus, suggesting that neurotoxicity is the ancestral feature of this species, with the US populations which lack neurotoxicity being derived states.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Dobson
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Daryl C Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Bianca Op den Brouw
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Chip Cochran
- Department of Earth and Biological Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA
| | - Tam Huynh
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Sanjaya Kurrupu
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Elda E Sánchez
- National Natural Toxins Research Center (NNTRC), Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, MSC 224, 975 West Avenue B, Kingsville, TX 78363, USA
| | - Daniel J Massey
- Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, 1295 N Martin Room B308, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; Banner University Medical Center, 1501 N. Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85745, USA
| | - Kate Baumann
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Timothy N W Jackson
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; Australian Venom Research Unit, Department of Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Amanda Nouwens
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Peter Josh
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Edgar Neri-Castro
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad # 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62210, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Alagón
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad # 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62210, Mexico
| | - Wayne C Hodgson
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Bryan G Fry
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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16
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Koludarov I, Jackson TN, Brouw BOD, Dobson J, Dashevsky D, Arbuckle K, Clemente CJ, Stockdale EJ, Cochran C, Debono J, Stephens C, Panagides N, Li B, Manchadi MLR, Violette A, Fourmy R, Hendrikx I, Nouwens A, Clements J, Martelli P, Kwok HF, Fry BG. Enter the Dragon: The Dynamic and Multifunctional Evolution of Anguimorpha Lizard Venoms. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:E242. [PMID: 28783084 PMCID: PMC5577576 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9080242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
While snake venoms have been the subject of intense study, comparatively little work has been done on lizard venoms. In this study, we have examined the structural and functional diversification of anguimorph lizard venoms and associated toxins, and related these results to dentition and predatory ecology. Venom composition was shown to be highly variable across the 20 species of Heloderma, Lanthanotus, and Varanus included in our study. While kallikrein enzymes were ubiquitous, they were also a particularly multifunctional toxin type, with differential activities on enzyme substrates and also ability to degrade alpha or beta chains of fibrinogen that reflects structural variability. Examination of other toxin types also revealed similar variability in their presence and activity levels. The high level of venom chemistry variation in varanid lizards compared to that of helodermatid lizards suggests that venom may be subject to different selection pressures in these two families. These results not only contribute to our understanding of venom evolution but also reveal anguimorph lizard venoms to be rich sources of novel bioactive molecules with potential as drug design and development lead compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Koludarov
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Timothy Nw Jackson
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia QLD 4072, Australia.
- Australian Venom Research Unit, School of Biomedical Sciences, Level 2 Medical Building, University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - Bianca Op den Brouw
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - James Dobson
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Daniel Dashevsky
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Kevin Arbuckle
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK.
| | - Christofer J Clemente
- University of the Sunshine Coast, School of Science and Engineering, Sippy Downs, Queensland 4558, Australia.
| | | | - Chip Cochran
- Department of Earth and Biological Sciences, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350, USA.
| | - Jordan Debono
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Carson Stephens
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane QLD 4001, Australia.
| | - Nadya Panagides
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Bin Li
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau.
| | | | - Aude Violette
- Alphabiotoxine Laboratory sprl, Barberie 15, 7911 Montroeul-au-bois, Belgium.
| | - Rudy Fourmy
- Alphabiotoxine Laboratory sprl, Barberie 15, 7911 Montroeul-au-bois, Belgium.
| | - Iwan Hendrikx
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Amanda Nouwens
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Queenslnd, St. Lucia QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Judith Clements
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane QLD 4001, Australia.
| | | | - Hang Fai Kwok
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau.
| | - Bryan G Fry
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia QLD 4072, Australia.
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17
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Lopes PH, Rocha MMT, Kuniyoshi AK, Portaro FCV, Gonçalves LRC. Edema and Nociception Induced by Philodryas patagoniensis Venom in Mice: A Pharmacological Evaluation with Implications for the Accident Treatment. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2017; 361:349-354. [PMID: 28348058 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.116.239640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We have investigated the mechanisms involved in the genesis of edema and nociception induced by Philodryas patagoniensis venom (PpV) injected into the footpad of mice. PpV induced dose-related edema and nociceptive effects. Pretreatment of mice with cyclooxygenase inhibitor (indomethacin), but not with cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitor (celecoxib) markedly inhibited both effects. Pretreatments with H1 receptor antagonist (promethazine) or with dual histamine-serotonin inhibitor (cyproheptadine) failed in inhibiting both effects. In groups pretreated with captopril (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor) the edema was unaltered, but nociception was clearly increased, suggesting the participation of kinins in the pathophysiology of the nociception but not of the edema-forming effect of PpV. When PpV was treated with EDTA, the nociception was similar to the one induced by untreated venom, but edema was markedly reduced. We concluded that PpV-induced edema and nociception have cyclooxygenase eicosanoids as the main mediators and no participation of vasoactive amines. Kinins seem to participate in nociception but not in edema induced by PpV. The results also suggest that metalloproteinases are the main compounds responsible for the edema, but not for the nociception induced by this venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Hess Lopes
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica (P.H.L., A.K.K., F.C.V.P.), Laboratório de Herpetologia/Venenos (M.M.T.R.), and Laboratório de Fisiopatologia (L.R.C.G.) Instituto Butantan, São Paulo-SP, Brazil
| | - Marisa M T Rocha
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica (P.H.L., A.K.K., F.C.V.P.), Laboratório de Herpetologia/Venenos (M.M.T.R.), and Laboratório de Fisiopatologia (L.R.C.G.) Instituto Butantan, São Paulo-SP, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Kazuo Kuniyoshi
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica (P.H.L., A.K.K., F.C.V.P.), Laboratório de Herpetologia/Venenos (M.M.T.R.), and Laboratório de Fisiopatologia (L.R.C.G.) Instituto Butantan, São Paulo-SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Calheta Vieira Portaro
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica (P.H.L., A.K.K., F.C.V.P.), Laboratório de Herpetologia/Venenos (M.M.T.R.), and Laboratório de Fisiopatologia (L.R.C.G.) Instituto Butantan, São Paulo-SP, Brazil
| | - Luís Roberto C Gonçalves
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica (P.H.L., A.K.K., F.C.V.P.), Laboratório de Herpetologia/Venenos (M.M.T.R.), and Laboratório de Fisiopatologia (L.R.C.G.) Instituto Butantan, São Paulo-SP, Brazil
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18
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Yang DC, Deuis JR, Dashevsky D, Dobson J, Jackson TNW, Brust A, Xie B, Koludarov I, Debono J, Hendrikx I, Hodgson WC, Josh P, Nouwens A, Baillie GJ, Bruxner TJC, Alewood PF, Lim KKP, Frank N, Vetter I, Fry BG. The Snake with the Scorpion's Sting: Novel Three-Finger Toxin Sodium Channel Activators from the Venom of the Long-Glanded Blue Coral Snake (Calliophis bivirgatus). Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:E303. [PMID: 27763551 PMCID: PMC5086663 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8100303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Revised: 10/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Millions of years of evolution have fine-tuned the ability of venom peptides to rapidly incapacitate both prey and potential predators. Toxicofera reptiles are characterized by serous-secreting mandibular or maxillary glands with heightened levels of protein expression. These glands are the core anatomical components of the toxicoferan venom system, which exists in myriad points along an evolutionary continuum. Neofunctionalisation of toxins is facilitated by positive selection at functional hotspots on the ancestral protein and venom proteins have undergone dynamic diversification in helodermatid and varanid lizards as well as advanced snakes. A spectacular point on the venom system continuum is the long-glanded blue coral snake (Calliophis bivirgatus), a specialist feeder that preys on fast moving, venomous snakes which have both a high likelihood of prey escape but also represent significant danger to the predator itself. The maxillary venom glands of C. bivirgatus extend one quarter of the snake's body length and nestle within the rib cavity. Despite the snake's notoriety its venom has remained largely unstudied. Here we show that the venom uniquely produces spastic paralysis, in contrast to the flaccid paralysis typically produced by neurotoxic snake venoms. The toxin responsible, which we have called calliotoxin (δ-elapitoxin-Cb1a), is a three-finger toxin (3FTx). Calliotoxin shifts the voltage-dependence of NaV1.4 activation to more hyperpolarised potentials, inhibits inactivation, and produces large ramp currents, consistent with its profound effects on contractile force in an isolated skeletal muscle preparation. Voltage-gated sodium channels (NaV) are a particularly attractive pharmacological target as they are involved in almost all physiological processes including action potential generation and conduction. Accordingly, venom peptides that interfere with NaV function provide a key defensive and predatory advantage to a range of invertebrate venomous species including cone snails, scorpions, spiders, and anemones. Enhanced activation or delayed inactivation of sodium channels by toxins is associated with the extremely rapid onset of tetanic/excitatory paralysis in envenomed prey animals. A strong selection pressure exists for the evolution of such toxins where there is a high chance of prey escape. However, despite their prevalence in other venomous species, toxins causing delay of sodium channel inhibition have never previously been described in vertebrate venoms. Here we show that NaV modulators, convergent with those of invertebrates, have evolved in the venom of the long-glanded coral snake. Calliotoxin represents a functionally novel class of 3FTx and a structurally novel class of NaV toxins that will provide significant insights into the pharmacology and physiology of NaV. The toxin represents a remarkable case of functional convergence between invertebrate and vertebrate venom systems in response to similar selection pressures. These results underscore the dynamic evolution of the Toxicofera reptile system and reinforces the value of using evolution as a roadmap for biodiscovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daryl C Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia.
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Jennifer R Deuis
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Daniel Dashevsky
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - James Dobson
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Timothy N W Jackson
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Andreas Brust
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Bing Xie
- Bejing Genomics Institute-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China.
| | - Ivan Koludarov
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Jordan Debono
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Iwan Hendrikx
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Wayne C Hodgson
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia.
| | - Peter Josh
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Amanda Nouwens
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Gregory J Baillie
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Timothy J C Bruxner
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Paul F Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
| | - Kelvin Kok Peng Lim
- Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, National University of Singapore, 2 Conservatory Drive, Singapore 117377, Singapore.
| | | | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba 4102, Australia.
| | - Bryan G Fry
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia 4072, Australia.
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19
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Junqueira-de-Azevedo ILM, Campos PF, Ching ATC, Mackessy SP. Colubrid Venom Composition: An -Omics Perspective. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:E230. [PMID: 27455326 PMCID: PMC4999846 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8080230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Revised: 07/04/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Snake venoms have been subjected to increasingly sensitive analyses for well over 100 years, but most research has been restricted to front-fanged snakes, which actually represent a relatively small proportion of extant species of advanced snakes. Because rear-fanged snakes are a diverse and distinct radiation of the advanced snakes, understanding venom composition among "colubrids" is critical to understanding the evolution of venom among snakes. Here we review the state of knowledge concerning rear-fanged snake venom composition, emphasizing those toxins for which protein or transcript sequences are available. We have also added new transcriptome-based data on venoms of three species of rear-fanged snakes. Based on this compilation, it is apparent that several components, including cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRiSPs), C-type lectins (CTLs), CTLs-like proteins and snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs), are broadly distributed among "colubrid" venoms, while others, notably three-finger toxins (3FTxs), appear nearly restricted to the Colubridae (sensu stricto). Some putative new toxins, such as snake venom matrix metalloproteinases, are in fact present in several colubrid venoms, while others are only transcribed, at lower levels. This work provides insights into the evolution of these toxin classes, but because only a small number of species have been explored, generalizations are still rather limited. It is likely that new venom protein families await discovery, particularly among those species with highly specialized diets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inácio L M Junqueira-de-Azevedo
- Laboratório Especial de Toxinologia Aplicada, Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS), Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil.
| | - Pollyanna F Campos
- Laboratório Especial de Toxinologia Aplicada, Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS), Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil.
| | - Ana T C Ching
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil.
| | - Stephen P Mackessy
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA.
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Baraldi PT, Magro AJ, Matioli FF, Marcussi S, Lemke N, Calderon LA, Stábeli RG, Soares AM, Correa AG, Fontes MRM. A novel synthetic quinolinone inhibitor presents proteolytic and hemorrhagic inhibitory activities against snake venom metalloproteases. Biochimie 2015; 121:179-88. [PMID: 26700145 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2015.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Metalloproteases play a fundamental role in snake venom envenomation inducing hemorrhagic, fibrigen(ogen)olytic and myotoxic effects in their victims. Several snake venoms, such as those from the Bothrops genus, present important local effects which are not efficiently neutralized by conventional serum therapy. Consequently, these accidents may result in permanent sequelae and disability, creating economic and social problems, especially in developing countries, leading the attention of the World Health Organization that considered ophidic envenomations a neglected tropical disease. Aiming to produce an efficient inhibitor against bothropic venoms, we synthesized different molecules classified as quinolinones - a group of low-toxic chemical compounds widely used as antibacterial and antimycobacterial drugs - and tested their inhibitory properties against hemorrhage caused by bothropic venoms. The results from this initial screening indicated the molecule 2-hydroxymethyl-6-methoxy-1,4-dihydro-4-quinolinone (Q8) was the most effective antihemorrhagic compound among all of the assayed synthetic quinolinones. Other in vitro and in vivo experiments showed this novel compound was able to inhibit significantly the hemorrhagic and/or proteolytic activities of bothropic crude venoms and isolated snake venom metalloproteases (SVMPs) even at lower concentrations. Docking and molecular dynamic simulations were also performed to get insights into the structural basis of Q8 inhibitory mechanism against proteolytic and hemorrhagic SVMPs. These structural studies demonstrated that Q8 may form a stable complex with SVMPs, impairing the access of substrates to the active sites of these toxins. Therefore, both experimental and structural data indicate that Q8 compound is an interesting candidate for antiophidic therapy, particularly for the treatment of the hemorrhagic and necrotic effects induced by bothropic venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia T Baraldi
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Angelo J Magro
- Departamento de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil; Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Física e Biofísica, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
| | - Fábio F Matioli
- Departamento de Física e Biofísica, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Silvana Marcussi
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, MG, Brazil
| | - Ney Lemke
- Departamento de Física e Biofísica, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Leonardo A Calderon
- Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde (CEBio), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), unidade Fiocruz Rondônia, Porto Velho, RO, Brazil; Departamento de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo G Stábeli
- Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde (CEBio), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), unidade Fiocruz Rondônia, Porto Velho, RO, Brazil; Departamento de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO, Brazil
| | - Andreimar M Soares
- Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde (CEBio), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), unidade Fiocruz Rondônia, Porto Velho, RO, Brazil; Departamento de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, RO, Brazil
| | - Arlene G Correa
- Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcos R M Fontes
- Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Física e Biofísica, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
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21
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Urra FA, Pulgar R, Gutiérrez R, Hodar C, Cambiazo V, Labra A. Identification and molecular characterization of five putative toxins from the venom gland of the snake Philodryas chamissonis (Serpentes: Dipsadidae). Toxicon 2015; 108:19-31. [PMID: 26410112 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 09/20/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Philodryas chamissonis is a rear-fanged snake endemic to Chile. Its bite produces mild to moderate symptoms with proteolytic and anti-coagulant effects. Presently, the composition of the venom, as well as, the biochemical and structural characteristics of its toxins, remains unknown. In this study, we cloned and reported the first full-length sequences of five toxin-encoding genes from the venom gland of this species: Type III snake venom metalloprotease (SVMP), snake venom serine protease (SVSP), Cysteine-rich secretory protein (CRISP), α and β subunits of C-type lectin-like protein (CLP) and C-type natriuretic peptide (NP). These genes are highly expressed in the venom gland and their sequences exhibited a putative signal peptide, suggesting that these are components of the venom. These putative toxins had different evolutionary relationships with those reported for some front-fanged snakes, being SVMP, SVSP and CRISP of P. chamissonis closely related to the toxins present in Elapidae species, while NP was more related to those of Viperidae species. In addition, analyses suggest that the α and β subunits of CLP of P. chamissonis might have a α-subunit scaffold in common with Viperidae species, whose highly variable C-terminal region might have allowed the diversification in α and β subunits. Our results provide the first molecular description of the toxins possibly implicated in the envenomation of prey and humans by the bite of P. chamissonis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Félix A Urra
- Laboratorio de Neuroetología, Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Casilla 70005, Correo 7, Santiago, Chile; Laboratorio de Cáncer y Bioenergética, Programa de Farmacología Molecular y Clínica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Casilla 70005, Correo 7, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Rodrigo Pulgar
- Laboratorio de Bioinformática y Expresión Génica, INTA, Universidad de Chile and Fondap Center for Genome Regulation (CGR), El Líbano 5524, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ricardo Gutiérrez
- Laboratorio de Bioinformática y Expresión Génica, INTA, Universidad de Chile and Fondap Center for Genome Regulation (CGR), El Líbano 5524, Santiago, Chile
| | - Christian Hodar
- Laboratorio de Bioinformática y Expresión Génica, INTA, Universidad de Chile and Fondap Center for Genome Regulation (CGR), El Líbano 5524, Santiago, Chile
| | - Verónica Cambiazo
- Laboratorio de Bioinformática y Expresión Génica, INTA, Universidad de Chile and Fondap Center for Genome Regulation (CGR), El Líbano 5524, Santiago, Chile
| | - Antonieta Labra
- Laboratorio de Neuroetología, Programa de Fisiología y Biofísica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Casilla 70005, Correo 7, Santiago, Chile; Department of Biosciences, Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, University of Oslo, PB1066 Blinder, 0316 Oslo, Norway.
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Saviola AJ, Modahl CM, Mackessy SP. Disintegrins of Crotalus simus tzabcan venom: Isolation, characterization and evaluation of the cytotoxic and anti-adhesion activities of tzabcanin, a new RGD disintegrin. Biochimie 2015; 116:92-102. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 07/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Saviola AJ, Peichoto ME, Mackessy SP. Rear-fanged snake venoms: an untapped source of novel compounds and potential drug leads. TOXIN REV 2014. [DOI: 10.3109/15569543.2014.942040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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24
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Weinstein SA, Griffin R, Ismail AK. Non-front-fanged colubroid ("colubrid") snakebites: three cases of local envenoming by the mangrove or ringed cat-eyed snake (Boiga dendrophila; Colubridae, Colubrinae), the Western beaked snake (Rhamphiophis oxyrhynchus; Lamprophiidae, Psammophinae) and the rain forest cat-eyed snake (Leptodeira frenata; Dipsadidae). Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2014; 52:277-82. [PMID: 24645905 DOI: 10.3109/15563650.2014.897352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Non-front-fanged colubroid snakes (NFFC; formerly and artificially taxonomically assembled as "colubrids") comprise the majority of extant ophidian species. Although the medical risks of bites by a handful of species have been documented, the majority of these snakes have oral products (Duvernoy's secretions, or venoms) with unknown biomedical properties/unverified functions and their potential for causing harm in humans is unknown. CASE DETAILS Described are three cases of local envenoming from NFFC bites inflicted respectively by the mangrove or ringed cat-eyed snake (Boiga dendrophila, Colubridae), the Western beaked snake (Rhamphiophis oxyrhynchus, Lamprophiidae) and the rain forest cat-eyed snake (Leptodeira frenata, Dipsadidae). The effects ranged from mild pain, edema and erythema to severe pain, progressive edema, and blistering with slowly resolving arthralgia; there were no systemic effects. DISCUSSION Although these three taxa occasionally inflict bites with mild to moderate local effects, there is no current evidence of systemic involvement. Two of these cases were reported to one of the authors for medical evaluation, and although verified, thus constitute reliably reported cases, but low-quality evidence. Type-1 local hypersensitivity may contribute to some cases, but most local effects observed or reported in these three cases were consistent with the effects of venom/oral product components.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Weinstein
- Department of Toxinology, Women's and Children's Hospital , North Adelaide, SA , Australia
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Alonso-Castro AJ. Use of medicinal fauna in Mexican traditional medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2014; 152:53-70. [PMID: 24440438 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Revised: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Mexico has great biodiversity of fauna. The use of fauna with medicinal properties is a common practice since pre-Hispanic times. In the last decade, there has been an interest in ethnozoological studies in Mexico. Therefore, more studies are needed in order to gather information regarding the use of fauna with medicinal properties in México. Ethnozoological studies are necessary in order to discover new medications for human health. This review presents current information in terms of ethnozoological, conservation status, trade, toxicological and pharmacological effects of fauna used for medicinal purposes in Mexican traditional medicine (MTM), based on scientific literature. Future prospects for research with medicinal fauna are discussed. MATERIALS AND METHODS Bibliographic investigation was carried out by analyzing recognized books and peer-reviewed papers, consulting worldwide accepted scientific databases from the last five decades. Reports included in this review complied with the three criteria cited as follows: (i) used in Mexican traditional medicine for medicinal and/or magical-religious purposes, (ii) with experimental studies regarding the toxicological or medicinal effects and/or with studies exploring mechanisms of medicinal effects, and (iii) with information obtained from a clear source. RESULTS A total of 163 animal species, belonging to 79 families and 4 taxonomic categories, used for medicinal purposes are reported in this review. Medicinal fauna used in MTM come from birds (48), fishes (3), insects (22), mammals (49) and reptiles (41). The most versatile species which had the greatest number of medicinal properties were Mephitis macroura (21 uses), Crotalus atrox (17 uses), Dasypus novemcinctus (13 uses) and Didelphis virginiana (13 uses). However, 14 of the 161 species listed in this review are classified as endangered. Animal species are mainly used for the treatment of inflammatory, respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases. Furthermore, insects and reptiles are the animal groups with more pharmacological studies. Approximately, 11% and 5% of medicinal fauna have been tested in terms of their pharmacological and toxicological effects, respectively. CONCLUSION Despite the use of medicinal fauna in MTM, during centuries, there are a very limited number of scientific studies published on this topic. This review highlights the need to perform pharmacological, toxicological and chemical studies with medicinal fauna used in MTM.
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Snake venomics: From the inventory of toxins to biology. Toxicon 2013; 75:44-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2013] [Revised: 03/06/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Aird SD, Watanabe Y, Villar-Briones A, Roy MC, Terada K, Mikheyev AS. Quantitative high-throughput profiling of snake venom gland transcriptomes and proteomes (Ovophis okinavensis and Protobothrops flavoviridis). BMC Genomics 2013; 14:790. [PMID: 24224955 PMCID: PMC3840601 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-14-790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2013] [Accepted: 10/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Advances in DNA sequencing and proteomics have facilitated quantitative comparisons of snake venom composition. Most studies have employed one approach or the other. Here, both Illumina cDNA sequencing and LC/MS were used to compare the transcriptomes and proteomes of two pit vipers, Protobothrops flavoviridis and Ovophis okinavensis, which differ greatly in their biology. Results Sequencing of venom gland cDNA produced 104,830 transcripts. The Protobothrops transcriptome contained transcripts for 103 venom-related proteins, while the Ovophis transcriptome contained 95. In both, transcript abundances spanned six orders of magnitude. Mass spectrometry identified peptides from 100% of transcripts that occurred at higher than contaminant (e.g. human keratin) levels, including a number of proteins never before sequenced from snakes. These transcriptomes reveal fundamentally different envenomation strategies. Adult Protobothrops venom promotes hemorrhage, hypotension, incoagulable blood, and prey digestion, consistent with mammalian predation. Ovophis venom composition is less readily interpreted, owing to insufficient pharmacological data for venom serine and metalloproteases, which comprise more than 97.3% of Ovophis transcripts, but only 38.0% of Protobothrops transcripts. Ovophis venom apparently represents a hybrid strategy optimized for frogs and small mammals. Conclusions This study illustrates the power of cDNA sequencing combined with MS profiling. The former quantifies transcript composition, allowing detection of novel proteins, but cannot indicate which proteins are actually secreted, as does MS. We show, for the first time, that transcript and peptide abundances are correlated. This means that MS can be used for quantitative, non-invasive venom profiling, which will be beneficial for studies of endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven D Aird
- Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology, Tancha 1919-1, Onna-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa-ken 904-0412, Japan.
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Heyborne WH, Mackessy SP. Identification and characterization of a taxon-specific three-finger toxin from the venom of the Green Vinesnake (Oxybelis fulgidus; family Colubridae). Biochimie 2013; 95:1923-32. [PMID: 23851011 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2013.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Snake venoms contain a variety of protein and peptide toxins, and the three-finger toxins (3FTxs) are among the best characterized family of venom proteins. The compact nature and highly conserved molecular fold of 3FTxs, together with their abundance in many venoms, has contributed to their utility in structure-function studies. Although many target the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor of vertebrate skeletal muscle, often binding with nanomolar Kds, several non-conventional 3FTxs show pronounced taxon-specific neurotoxic effects. Here we describe the purification and characterization of fulgimotoxin, a monomeric 3FTx from the venom of Oxybelis fulgidus, a neotropical rear-fanged snake. Fulgimotoxin retains the canonical 5 disulfides of the non-conventional 3FTxs and is highly neurotoxic to lizards; however, mice are unaffected, demonstrating that this toxin is taxon-specific in its effects. Analysis of structural features of fulgimotoxin and other colubrid venom 3FTxs indicate the presence of a "colubrid toxin motif" (CYTLY) and a second conserved segment (WAVK) found in Boiga and Oxybelis taxon-specific 3FTxs, both in loop II. Because specific residues in loop II conventional α-neurotoxic 3FTxs are intimately associated with receptor binding, we hypothesize that this loop, with its highly conserved substitutions, confers taxon-specific neurotoxicity. These findings underscore the importance of rear-fanged snake venoms for understanding the evolution of toxin molecules and demonstrate that even among well-characterized toxin families, novel structural and functional motifs may be found.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Heyborne
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th St., CB 92, Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA
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29
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Sánchez MN, Timoniuk A, Maruñak S, Teibler P, Acosta O, Peichoto ME. Biochemical and biological analysis of Philodryas baroni (Baron’s Green Racer; Dipsadidae) venom. Hum Exp Toxicol 2013; 33:22-31. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327113493302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Philodryas baroni—an attractively colored snake—has become readily available through the exotic pet trade. Most people consider this species harmless; however, it has already caused human envenomation. As little is known about the venom from this South American opisthoglyphous “colubrid” snake, herein, we studied its protein composition by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), as well as its effects on the hemostatic system. Both reducing and nonreducing SDS-PAGE analysis demonstrated that the venom exhibits greatest complexity in the range of 50–80 kDa. The venom displayed proteolytic activity toward azocollagen, with a specific activity of 75.5 U mg−1, and rapidly hydrolyzed the Aα-chain of fibrinogen, exhibiting lower activity toward the Bβ- and γ-chains. The venom from P. baroni showed no platelet proaggregating activity per se, but it inhibited collagen- and thrombin-induced platelet aggregation. Prominent hemorrhage developed in mouse skin after intradermal injection of the crude venom, and its minimum hemorrhagic dose was 13.9 μg. When injected intramuscularly into the gastrocnemius of mice, the venom induced local effects such as hemorrhage, myonecrosis, edema, and leucocyte infiltration. Due to its venom toxicity shown herein, P. baroni should be considered dangerous to humans and any medically significant bite should be promptly reviewed by a qualified health professional.
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Affiliation(s)
- MN Sánchez
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina
| | - A Timoniuk
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina
| | - S Maruñak
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina
| | - P Teibler
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina
| | - O Acosta
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina
| | - ME Peichoto
- Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Tropical (INMeT), Neuquén y Jujuy s/n, Puerto Iguazú, Argentina
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Weinstein SA, White J, Keyler DE, Warrell DA. Non-front-fanged colubroid snakes: a current evidence-based analysis of medical significance. Toxicon 2013; 69:103-13. [PMID: 23462380 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Revised: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Non-front-fanged colubroid snakes (NFFC; formerly and artificially taxonomically assembled as "colubrids") comprise about 70% of extant snake species and include several taxa now known to cause lethal or life threatening envenoming in humans. Although the medical risks of bites by only a handful of species have been documented, a growing number of NFFC are implicated in medically significant bites. The majority of these snakes have oral products (Duvernoy's secretions, or venoms) with unknown biomedical properties and their potential for causing harm in humans is unknown. Increasingly, multiple NFFC species are entering the commercial snake trade posing an uncertain risk. Published case reports describing NFFC bites were assessed for evidence-based value, clinical detail and verified species identification. These data were subjected to meta-analysis and a hazard index was generated for select taxa. Cases on which we consulted or personally treated were included and subjected to the same assessment criteria. Cases involving approximately 120 species met the selection criteria, and a small subset designated Hazard Level 1 (most hazardous), contained 5 species with lethal potential. Recommended management of these cases included antivenom for 3 species, Dispholidus typus, Rhabdophis tiginis, Rhabdophis subminiatus, whereas others in this subset without commercially available antivenoms (Thelotornis spp.) were treated with plasma/erythrocyte replacement therapy and supportive care. Heparin, antifibrinolytics and/or plasmapheresis/exchange transfusion have been used in the management of some Hazard Level 1 envenomings, but evidence-based analysis positively contraindicates the use of any of these interventions. Hazard Level 2/3 species were involved in cases containing mixed quality data that implicated these taxa (e.g. Boiga irregularis, Philodryas olfersii, Malpolon monspessulanus) with bites that caused rare systemic effects. Recommended management may include use of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (e.g. neostigmine) and wound care on a case-by-case basis. Hazard level 3 species comprised a larger group capable of producing significant local effects only, often associated with a protracted bite (eg Heterodon nasicus, Borikenophis (Alsophis) portoricensis, Platyceps (Coluber) rhodorachis). Management is restricted to wound care. Bites by Hazard level 4 species comprised the majority of surveyed taxa and these showed only minor effects of no clinical importance. This study has produced a comprehensive evidence-based listing of NFFC snakes tabulated against medical significance of bites, together with best-practice management recommendations. This analysis assumes increasing importance, as there is growing exposure to lesser-known NFFC snakes, particularly in captive collections that may uncover further species of significance in the future. Careful and accurate documentation of bites by verified species of NFFC snakes is required to increase the evidence base and establish the best medical management approach for each species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott A Weinstein
- Department of Toxinology, Women's and Children's Hospital, 72 King William St., North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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Abstract
Recent proteomic analyses of snake venoms show that metalloproteinases represent major components in most of the Crotalid and Viperid venoms. In this chapter we discuss the multiple activities of the SVMPs. In addition to hemorrhagic activity, members of the SVMP family also have fibrin(ogen)olytic activity, act as prothrombin activators, activate blood coagulation factor X, possess apoptotic activity, inhibit platelet aggregation, are pro-inflammatory and inactivate blood serine proteinase inhibitors. Clearly the SVMPs have multiple functions in addition to their well-known hemorrhagic activity. The realization that there are structural variations in the SVMPs and the early studies that led to their classification represents an important event in our understanding of the structural forms of the SVMPs. The SVMPs were subdivided into the P-I, P-II and P-III protein classes. The noticeable characteristic that distinguished the different classes was their size (molecular weight) differences and domain structure: Class I (P-I), the small SVMPs, have molecular masses of 20-30 kDa, contain only a pro domain and the proteinase domain; Class II (P-II), the medium size SVMPs, molecular masses of 30-60 kDa, contain the pro domain, proteinase domain and disintegrin domain; Class III (P-III), the large SVMPs, have molecular masses of 60-100 kDa, contain pro, proteinase, disintegrin-like and cysteine-rich domain structure. Another significant advance in the SVMP field was the characterization of the crystal structure of the first P-I class SVMP. The structures of other P-I SVMPs soon followed and the structures of P-III SVMPs have also been determined. The active site of the metalloproteinase domain has a consensus HEXXHXXGXXHD sequence and a Met-turn. The "Met-turn" structure contains a conserved Met residue that forms a hydrophobic basement for the three zinc-binding histidines in the consensus sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis S Markland
- University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Cancer Research Laboratory #106, 1303 N. Mission Rd., Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA.
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Peichoto ME, Tavares FL, Santoro ML, Mackessy SP. Venom proteomes of South and North American opisthoglyphous (Colubridae and Dipsadidae) snake species: a preliminary approach to understanding their biological roles. COMPARATIVE BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY D-GENOMICS & PROTEOMICS 2012; 7:361-9. [PMID: 22974712 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbd.2012.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2012] [Revised: 08/13/2012] [Accepted: 08/15/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Opisthoglyphous snake venoms remain under-explored despite being promising sources for ecological, evolutionary and biomedical/biotechnological research. Herein, we compared the protein composition and enzymatic properties of the venoms of Philodryas baroni (PbV), Philodryas olfersii olfersii (PooV) and Philodryas patagoniensis (PpV) from South America, and Hypsiglena torquata texana (HttV) and Trimorphodon biscutatus lambda (TblV) from North America. All venoms degraded azocasein, and this metalloproteinase activity was significantly inhibited by EDTA. PooV exhibited the highest level of catalytic activity towards synthetic substrates for serine proteinases. All venoms hydrolyzed acetylthiocholine at low levels, and only TblV showed phospholipase A(2) activity. 1D and 2D SDS-PAGE profile comparisons demonstrated species-specific components as well as several shared components. Size exclusion chromatograms from the three Philodryas venoms and HttV were similar, but TblV showed a notably different pattern. MALDI-TOF MS of crude venoms revealed as many as 49 distinct protein masses, assigned to six protein families. MALDI-TOF/TOF MS analysis of tryptic peptides confirmed the presence of cysteine-rich secretory proteins in all venoms, as well as a phospholipase A(2) and a three-finger toxin in TblV. Broad patterns of protein composition appear to follow phylogenetic lines, with finer scale variation likely influenced by ecological factors such as diet and habitat.
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Affiliation(s)
- María E Peichoto
- Instituto Nacional de Medicina Tropical, Puerto Iguazú, Argentina.
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Ruhl S. The scientific exploration of saliva in the post-proteomic era: from database back to basic function. Expert Rev Proteomics 2012; 9:85-96. [PMID: 22292826 DOI: 10.1586/epr.11.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The proteome of human saliva can be considered as being essentially completed. Diagnostic markers for a number of diseases have been identified among salivary proteins and peptides, taking advantage of saliva as an easy-to-obtain biological fluid. Yet, the majority of disease markers identified so far are serum components and not intrinsic proteins produced by the salivary glands. Furthermore, despite the fact that saliva is essential for protecting the oral integuments and dentition, little progress has been made in finding risk predictors in the salivary proteome for dental caries or periodontal disease. Since salivary proteins, and in particular the attached glycans, play an important role in interactions with the microbial world, the salivary glycoproteome and other post-translational modifications of salivary proteins need to be studied. Risk markers for microbial diseases, including dental caries, are likely to be discovered among the highly glycosylated major protein species in saliva. This review will attempt to raise new ideas and also point to under-researched areas that may hold promise for future applicability in oral diagnostics and prediction of oral disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Ruhl
- Department of Oral Biology, School of Dental Medicine, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
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Weldon CL, Mackessy SP. Alsophinase, a new P-III metalloproteinase with α-fibrinogenolytic and hemorrhagic activity from the venom of the rear-fanged Puerto Rican Racer Alsophis portoricensis (Serpentes: Dipsadidae). Biochimie 2012; 94:1189-98. [PMID: 22349739 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2012.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Accepted: 02/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Metalloproteinases from snake venoms are often multi-domain enzymes involved in degradation of a variety of structural proteins. Hemorrhage and tissue necrosis are common manifestations of viperid envenomations in humans, largely due to the actions of prominent metalloproteinases, and envenomation by rear-fanged snakes may also cause hemorrhage. We purified the major metalloproteinase in Alsophis portoricensis (Puerto Rican Racer) venom through HPLC size exclusion and ion exchange chromatography. Named alsophinase, it is the first protein purified and characterized from the venom of Alsophis. Alsophinase is a single polypeptide chain protein, and based on mass, activity and complete inhibition by 1,10-phenanthroline, it is a class P-III snake venom member of the M12 ADAM family of metalloproteinases. Alsophinase has a molecular mass of 56.003kDa and an N-terminal sequence of QDTYLNAKKYIEFYLVVDNGMFxKYSxxFTV, with 67% sequence identity to a metalloproteinase isolated from venom of Philodryas olfersii (another rear-fanged species). Alsophinase rapidly catalyzed cleavage of only the Ala14-Leu15 bond of oxidized insulin B chain, had potent hemorrhagic activity in mice, and degraded only the α-subunit of human fibrinogen in vitro. Alsophinase is responsible for hemorrhagic and fibrinogenolytic activity of crude venom, and it may contribute to localized edema and ecchymosis associated with human envenomations by A. portoricensis. It may be more specific in peptide bond recognition than many well-characterized viperid P-III metalloproteinases, and it could have utility as a new protein fragmentation enzyme for mass spectrometry studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline L Weldon
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th Street, CB 92, Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA
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A comparative study of the effects of venoms from five rear-fanged snake species on the growth of Leishmania major: Identification of a protein with inhibitory activity against the parasite. Toxicon 2011; 58:28-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2011.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2010] [Revised: 04/24/2011] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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