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José Alejandro GA, Juan M, Luis CB, Fátima Pamela SM, Ivonne B, Diana Laura PT, Ashly M. Envenomation by the Indian ornamental tarantula (Poecilotheria regalis): A case report on treatment with Latrodectus mactans antivenom. Toxicon 2024; 247:107842. [PMID: 38960287 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2024.107842] [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: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Poecilotheria spiders are considered theraphosids of underestimated clinical importance, with bites from these species inducing symptoms such as severe pain and intense muscle cramps. However, there is no specific treatment for the envenomation caused by these species, which, while native to India and Sri Lanka, are widely distributed worldwide. The present study reports the case of a 31-year-old man bitten by a Poecilotheria regalis specimen. The patient's clinical presentation was similar to Latrodectus envenomation, and patient was treated with an L. mactans antivenom. Most of patient's symptoms improved (fasciculations, pain, erythema, and local swelling), except muscle cramps. A toxicological study conducted on mice did not show that L. mactans antivenom has a neutralizing effect on the toxicity of P. regalis. The present report discusses the envenoming process of Poecilotheria species and the possible neutralizing effect exerted by L. mactans antivenom.
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Affiliation(s)
- García-Arredondo José Alejandro
- Departamento de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, 76010, Querétaro, Querétaro, Mexico.
| | - Mosqueda Juan
- Laboratorio de Inmunología y Vacunas, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro, 76230, Querétaro, Mexico; Aracnario, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro, Av. De Las Ciencias S/N, 76230, Juriquilla, Mexico
| | - Cuéllar-Balleza Luis
- Aracnario, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro, Av. De Las Ciencias S/N, 76230, Juriquilla, Mexico
| | - Sánchez-Morales Fátima Pamela
- Hospital General Regional No. 2 El Marqués, Instituto Mexicano Del Seguro Social, Circuito Universidades KM 1 S/N, 76269, El Marqués, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Buitrón Ivonne
- Posgrado en Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, 76010, Querétaro, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Pescador-Tovar Diana Laura
- Posgrado en Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, 76010, Querétaro, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Mohan Ashly
- Posgrado en Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, 76010, Querétaro, Querétaro, Mexico
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2
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Viquez C, Rojas-Gätjens D, Mesén-Porras E, Avendaño R, Sasa M, Lomonte B, Chavarría M. Venom-microbiomics of eight species of Neotropical spiders from the Theraphosidae family. J Appl Microbiol 2024; 135:lxae113. [PMID: 38692848 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxae113] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
AIM Tarantulas are one of the largest predatory arthropods in tropical regions. Tarantulas though not lethal to humans, their venomous bite kills small animals and insect upon which they prey. To understand the abiotic and biotic components involved in Neotropical tarantula bites, we conducted a venom-microbiomics study in eight species from Costa Rica. METHODS AND RESULTS We determined that the toxin profiles of tarantula venom are highly diverse using shotgun proteomics; the most frequently encountered toxins were ω-Ap2 toxin, neprilysin-1, and several teraphotoxins. Through culture-independent and culture-dependent methods, we determined the microbiota present in the venom and excreta to evaluate the presence of pathogens that could contribute to primary infections in animals, including humans. The presence of opportunistic pathogens with hemolytic activity was observed, with a prominence of Stenotrophomonas in the venoms. Other bacteria found in venoms and excreta with hemolytic activity included members of the genera Serratia, Bacillus, Acinetobacter, Microbacterium, and Morganella. CONCLUSIONS Our data shed light on the venom- and gut-microbiome associated with Neotropical tarantulas. This information may be useful for treating bites from these arthropods in both humans and farm animals, while also providing insight into the toxins and biodiversity of this little-explored microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Viquez
- Centro Nacional de Innovaciones Biotecnológicas (CENIBiot), CeNAT-CONARE, San José 1174-1200, Costa Rica
- Oficina subregional de Alajuela, Sistema Nacional de Áreas de Conservación (SINAC), Ministerio Ambiente y Energía (MINAE), Alajuela 20101, Costa Rica
| | - Diego Rojas-Gätjens
- Centro Nacional de Innovaciones Biotecnológicas (CENIBiot), CeNAT-CONARE, San José 1174-1200, Costa Rica
- Centro de Investigaciones en Productos Naturales (CIPRONA), Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica
| | - Esteve Mesén-Porras
- Centro Nacional de Innovaciones Biotecnológicas (CENIBiot), CeNAT-CONARE, San José 1174-1200, Costa Rica
| | - Roberto Avendaño
- Centro Nacional de Innovaciones Biotecnológicas (CENIBiot), CeNAT-CONARE, San José 1174-1200, Costa Rica
| | - Mahmood Sasa
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica
- Museo de Zoología, Centro de Investigación de Biodiversidad y Ecología Tropical, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica
| | - Bruno Lomonte
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica
| | - Max Chavarría
- Centro Nacional de Innovaciones Biotecnológicas (CENIBiot), CeNAT-CONARE, San José 1174-1200, Costa Rica
- Centro de Investigaciones en Productos Naturales (CIPRONA), Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica
- Escuela de Química, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica
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Wu P, Chan CK, Wong OF. Perioral Paresthesia, Generalize Muscle Cramps, and Rhabdomyolysis After a Socotra Island Blue Baboon Tarantula (Monocentropus Balfouri) Bite. J Emerg Med 2024; 66:e467-e469. [PMID: 38462393 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2023.12.006] [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: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Literature on systemic envenomation caused by tarantula bites, particularly from the Theraphosidae family, is relatively scarce. This case report provides a formal description of the first known instance of systemic envenomation caused by the Socotra Island Blue Baboon Tarantula (Monocentropus balfouri). CASE REPORT In this case, a 23-year-old employee of an exotic pet shop suffered from perioral paresthesia, generalized muscle cramps, and rhabdomyolysis because of a Monocentropus balfouri bite. His symptoms were successfully relieved with oral benzodiazepines. EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: This case highlights the potential for serious complications resulting from the bite of Monocentropus balfouri, a species gaining popularity among global exotic pet collectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Wu
- Intensive Care Unit, Tuen Mun Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chi Keung Chan
- Hong Kong Poison Control Centre, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Oi Fung Wong
- Accident and Emergency Department, North Lantau Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
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de Jesus-López E, Cuéllar-Balleza L, Díaz-Peña LF, Luna-Vázquez FJ, Ibarra-Alvarado C, García-Arredondo JA. Vasodilator activity of Poecilotheria ornata venom involves activation of the NO/cGMP pathway and inhibition of calcium influx to vascular smooth muscle cells. Toxicon X 2023; 19:100159. [PMID: 37251689 PMCID: PMC10220391 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2023.100159] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Tarantula venoms may be a natural source of new vasodilator components useful in pharmacological research. Moreover, biological function data of the venoms are important to enhance the knowledge about the biodiversity and evolution of these species. The present study aims to describe the vasodilatory activity induced by the venom of Poecilotheria ornata on isolated rat aortic rings. This venom induced a vasodilator activity that was significantly reduced after incubation with L-NAME or ODQ. Measurements of nitrite concentrations on rat aorta homogenates showed that the venom significantly increased the basal levels. Moreover, the venom attenuates the contraction induced by calcium. These results suggest that P. ornata venom contains a mixture of vasodilator components that act through the activation of the nitric oxide/cGMP pathway, as well as, through an endothelium-independent mechanism that involves the calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique de Jesus-López
- Posgrado en Ciencias Químico-Biológicas, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, 76010, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Luis Cuéllar-Balleza
- Aracnario, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Av. de las Ciencias S/N, 76230, Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Luis Fernando Díaz-Peña
- Posgrado en Ciencias Químico-Biológicas, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, 76010, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Francisco Javier Luna-Vázquez
- Departamento de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, 76010, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - César Ibarra-Alvarado
- Departamento de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, 76010, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - José Alejandro García-Arredondo
- Departamento de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Centro Universitario S/N, 76010, Querétaro, Mexico
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5
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Richards NJ, Alqallaf A, Mitchell RD, Parnell A, Haidar HB, Almeida JR, Williams J, Vijayakumar P, Balogun A, Matsakas A, Trim SA, Patel K, Vaiyapuri S. Indian Ornamental Tarantula ( Poecilotheria regalis) Venom Affects Myoblast Function and Causes Skeletal Muscle Damage. Cells 2023; 12:2074. [PMID: 37626884 PMCID: PMC10453882 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162074] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Envenomation by the Indian ornamental tarantula (Poecilotheria regalis) is medically relevant to humans, both in its native India and worldwide, where they are kept as pets. Muscle-related symptoms such as cramps and pain are commonly reported in humans following envenomation by this species. There is no specific treatment, including antivenom, for its envenomation. Moreover, the scientific knowledge of the impact of this venom on skeletal muscle function is highly limited. Therefore, we carried out this study to better understand the myotoxic properties of Poecilotheria regalis venom by determining its effects in cultured myoblasts and in the tibialis anterior muscle in mice. While there was no effect found on undifferentiated myoblasts, the venom affected differentiated multinucleated myotubes resulting in the reduction of fusion and atrophy of myotubes. Similarly, intramuscular administration of this venom in the tibialis anterior muscle in mice resulted in extensive muscle damage on day 5. However, by day 10, the regeneration was evident, and the regeneration process continued until day 20. Nevertheless, some tissue abnormalities including reduced dystrophin expression and microthrombi presence were observed on day 20. Overall, this study demonstrates the ability of this venom to induce significant muscle damage and affect its regeneration in the early stages. These data provide novel mechanistic insights into this venom-induced muscle damage and guide future studies to isolate and characterise individual toxic component(s) that induce muscle damage and their significance in developing better therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J. Richards
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (N.J.R.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (H.B.H.)
| | - Ali Alqallaf
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (N.J.R.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (H.B.H.)
- Medical Services Authority, Ministry of Defence, Kuwait City 13012, Kuwait
| | | | - Andrew Parnell
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (N.J.R.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (H.B.H.)
- Micregen Ltd., Thames Valley Science Park, Reading RG2 9LH, UK;
| | - Husain Bin Haidar
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (N.J.R.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (H.B.H.)
| | - José R. Almeida
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (J.R.A.); (J.W.); (P.V.)
| | - Jarred Williams
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (J.R.A.); (J.W.); (P.V.)
| | - Pradeep Vijayakumar
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (J.R.A.); (J.W.); (P.V.)
| | - Adedoyin Balogun
- Molecular Physiology Laboratory, Centre for Biomedicine, Hull York Medical School, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Antonios Matsakas
- Molecular Physiology Laboratory, Centre for Biomedicine, Hull York Medical School, Hull HU6 7RX, UK
| | | | - Ketan Patel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (N.J.R.); (A.A.); (A.P.); (H.B.H.)
| | - Sakthivel Vaiyapuri
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (J.R.A.); (J.W.); (P.V.)
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Alsultan R, Brody J, Hurst N, Welch S, Shirazi M. Wessel's tiger ornamental tarantula bite envenomation: A case report and venom analysis. Toxicon 2023; 223:107013. [PMID: 36592763 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.107013] [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: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Tarantulas are commonly kept as pets and bites from some species can cause severe symptoms. Here we describe a case of a patient with transient atrial fibrillation (afib) and painful muscle cramps requiring hospitalization for pain management after being bitten by a Poecilotheria tigrinawesseli (Wessel's Tiger Ornamental) spider. He was discharged with a cardiac event monitor and outpatient cardiology follow-up. The event monitor documented transient afib which decreased in frequency then resolved halfway through the three-week monitoring period. In conclusion, tarantula envenomation is usually mild with local pain and edema most reported. However, bites by some species, such as P. tigrinawesseli may have local and more systemic, long-lasting effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Alsultan
- The Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, Tucson, AZ, USA.
| | | | - Nicholas Hurst
- The Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Sharyn Welch
- Banner Poison and Drug Information Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Mazda Shirazi
- The Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center, Tucson, AZ, USA
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Hauke TJ, Herzig V. Muscle spasms - A common symptom following theraphosid spider bites? Toxicon 2021; 192:74-77. [PMID: 33493497 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.01.001] [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: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite the popularity of theraphosids, detailed reports on bite symptoms are still limited to few geographic regions and subfamilies. We therefore examined 363 published bite reports and noticed muscles cramps caused by theraphosids from nearly all continents and subfamilies. Symptoms are mostly locally restricted and mild, but 12.7% of victims experience pronounced cramps with highest incidence rates by Poecilotheriinae, Harpactirinae and Stromatopelminae subfamilies. We discuss how variations in venom quantity correlate with muscle cramp prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Volker Herzig
- GeneCology Research Centre, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, 4556, Australia; School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, 4556, Australia.
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8
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Hauke TJ, Herzig V. Love bites - Do venomous arachnids make safe pets? Toxicon 2020; 190:65-72. [PMID: 33307110 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.12.003] [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: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
With a global estimate of tens of thousands of arachnid enthusiasts, spiders and scorpions are gaining increasing popularity as pets in industrialised countries in Europe, Northern America and Asia. As most spiders and all scorpions are venomous and due to their mostly negative image in the public media, several governments are already considering introducing legislation to regulate the domestic care of potentially dangerous captive animals. We aimed to investigate the circumstances and effects of exposure to arachnids kept in captivity. Thus, we collected and analysed data from 354 self-reported bites and stings attributed to pet arachnids. Our data revealed that on average there were less than 20 recorded envenomations per year with ~90% preventable by due care. We also categorized the severity of the resulting symptoms and found that the vast majority of symptoms were either local (60.7%) or minor (32.8%), 5.4% were asymptomatic, only 1.1% were severe and no fatalities were recorded. Based on our database of bite and sting reports, we performed a risk assessment for arachnid pet ownership and concluded that, with the proper care, arachnids can be safely kept as pets and pose a lower risk than many other recreational activities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Volker Herzig
- GeneCology Research Centre, School of Science, Technology and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, 4556, Australia.
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Deng Z, Wang Y, Shi W, Zhou L, Xu S, Li J, Zhang Y. Haplopelma hainanum venom induces inflammatory skin lesions. PeerJ 2020; 8:e8264. [PMID: 31942253 PMCID: PMC6956770 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.8264] [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: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Haplopelma hainanum is a species of theraphosid spider from China. Its large size and charming appearance make this species a popular pet. According to a previous study, theraphosid spider bites can induce pain, erythema, and edema in humans and can present more severely in domestic animals. The pathological consequences of envenomation by H. hainanum remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of H. hainanum envenomation in mice. We showed that the venom induced slight swelling, intense inflammatory response, and increased the microvascular density in mice skin. Moreover, we found that 50 µg/ml of the spider’s venom induced IL-1β expression in both HaCaT cells and fibroblast cells, but repressed CXCL10 expression in fibroblasts. The venom significantly induced cell senescence and repressed cell proliferation and migration in both HaCaT cells and fibroblast cells. Finally, we examined the expression of Nav channel in HaCaT and fibroblast cells and found that H. hainanum venom effectively inhibited Na+ currents in HaCaT cells. Our study calls for further investigation of the pathological consequences and potential mechanisms of H. hainanum envenomation. This information might assist in the development of suitable therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhili Deng
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center for Molecular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yaling Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Shi
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - San Xu
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center for Molecular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ji Li
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center for Molecular Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yiya Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Key Laboratory of Organ Injury, Aging and Regenerative Medicine of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Díaz-Peña LF, Ramírez R, Cuéllar-Balleza L, Aguilar MB, Lazcano-Pérez F, Arreguín-Espinosa R, Ibarra-Alvarado C, García-Arredondo A. Rat aorta relaxation induced by the venom of Poecilotheria regalis involves the activation of the NO/cGMP pathway. Toxicon 2019; 163:12-18. [PMID: 30880186 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2019.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Spider venoms are widely recognized as a new emerging source of potential research tools, pesticides, drug leads, and therapeutic agents. Some studies suggest that these venoms may contain interesting vasodilator compounds with potential therapeutic applications. In the present study, the vasodilator activity of the venom of Poecilotheria regalis was evaluated in isolated rat aortic rings. This venom induced an endothelium-dependent vasodilation [EC50 value was 5.52 (4.18-7.32) μg protein/ml with an Emax = 103.4 ± 3.8%]. While the percentage of vasodilation induced by the venom was significantly diminished in the presence of a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (L-NAME), it remained unaltered in the presence of suramin, a P2-purinergic receptor antagonist. Moreover, the vasodilator activity of the venom was not affected after boiling bath incubation, but was significantly decreased under reducing conditions. Additionally, venom composition was analyzed by reverse-phase chromatography and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and two fractions were obtained, referred to as peptidic and non-peptidic fractions. Interestingly, both fractions induced vasodilation in isolated rat aortic rings. The results of this study showed that the venom of P. regalis induces a concentration-dependent vasodilation in rat aorta that was endothelium-dependent and involves the activation of NO/cGMP pathway. These results suggest that the venom contains a combination of both peptidic and non-peptidic vasodilator components. This study provides pharmacological data that suggest that P. regalis venom may be an important source of peptidic and non-peptidic vasodilator compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Fernando Díaz-Peña
- Posgrado en Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro, 76010, Mexico
| | - Raymundo Ramírez
- Departamento de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro, 76010, Mexico
| | - Luis Cuéllar-Balleza
- Aracnario, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro, 76230, Mexico
| | - Manuel B Aguilar
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología Marina, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Querétaro, 76230, Mexico
| | - Fernando Lazcano-Pérez
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, 04510, Mexico; Departamento de Ciencias de La Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Campus Iztapalapa, México City, 09340, Mexico
| | | | - César Ibarra-Alvarado
- Departamento de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro, 76010, Mexico
| | - Alejandro García-Arredondo
- Departamento de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Querétaro, 76010, Mexico.
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Díaz-Peña LF, García-Arredondo A, Riesgo-Escovar JR. Drosophila bioassays are very sensitive methods to assess tarantula species venoms. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2019; 96:56-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Clinical consequences of toxic envenomation by spiders. Toxicon 2018; 152:65-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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13
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Fuchs J, Martin NC, Rauber-Lüthy C. A verified bite by Heteroscodra maculata (Togo starburst or ornamental baboon tarantula) resulting in long-lasting muscle cramps. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2017; 56:675-676. [DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2017.1406098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joan Fuchs
- National Poisons Centre, Tox Info Suisse, Associated Institute of the University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nadine C. Martin
- National Poisons Centre, Tox Info Suisse, Associated Institute of the University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christine Rauber-Lüthy
- National Poisons Centre, Tox Info Suisse, Associated Institute of the University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Pharmacological analysis of Poecilotheria spider venoms in mice provides clues for human treatment. Toxicon 2017; 138:59-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Revised: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Rodríguez-Rios L, Díaz-Peña LF, Lazcano-Pérez F, Arreguín-Espinosa R, Rojas-Molina A, García-Arredondo A. Hyaluronidase-like enzymes are a frequent component of venoms from theraphosid spiders. Toxicon 2017; 136:34-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Dangerous arachnids-Fake news or reality? Toxicon 2017; 138:173-183. [PMID: 28866287 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 07/28/2017] [Accepted: 08/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The public perception of spiders and scorpions is skewed towards the potential harm they can inflict in humans, despite recent scientific evidence that arachnid venom components might be useful as bioinsecticides or even human therapeutics. Nevertheless, arachnids are becoming more popular as pets in Europe, America and Asia, raising the question for regulatory agencies in these regions as to whether they need to take measurements to protect their citizens. In order to decide upon the necessary regulatory steps, they first need to determine which arachnids are actually dangerous to humans. This review therefore provides an overview of the current literature on verified bites and stings from spiders and scorpions with the aim of assessing their potential danger for human health. As a guideline, we also provide a list of those arachnid genera that we consider as potentially dangerous, which includes 10 spider and 11 scorpion genera. The arachnid genera classified as dangerous comprise less than a quarter of all extant scorpion species and only 0.5% of all spiders species, with the actual number most likely being much lower than that, as not all species in those genera might turn out to pose an actual threat for humans. In conclusion, we found that only a small percentage of scorpions and a minute percentage of all spiders can be considered as potentially dangerous to humans. While in some countries of origin the high incidence of envenomations by dangerous arachnids can result in a serious problem to the health system, we assessed the risk that the same species pose when kept as pets under controlled maintenance conditions as significantly lower.
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Abstract
Tarantulas and hermit crabs are commonly kept pets and are underappreciated in veterinary medicine. Safe handling, biology and husbandry, diagnostic techniques, anesthesia, fluid therapy, disorders, and euthanasia are covered in this article. Current research is applied to these topics to keep practitioners abreast with the best medicine for these creatures.
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Evaluation of antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and hemolytic activities from venom of the spider Lasiodora sp. Toxicon 2016; 122:119-126. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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García-Arredondo A, Rodríguez-Rios L, Díaz-Peña LF, Vega-Ángeles R. Pharmacological characterization of venoms from three theraphosid spiders: Poecilotheria regalis, Ceratogyrus darlingi and Brachypelma epicureanum. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2015; 21:15. [PMID: 26085827 PMCID: PMC4470046 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-015-0017-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2015] [Accepted: 05/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tarantulas (Theraphosidae) represent an important source of novel biologically active compounds that target a variety of ion channels and cell receptors in both insects and mammals. In this study, we evaluate and compare the pharmacological activity of venoms from three taxonomically different theraphosid spiders bred in captivity: Poecilotheria regalis, an aggressive arboreal tarantula from southeastern India; Ceratogyrus darlingi, an aggressive tarantula from southern Africa; and Brachypelma epicureanum, a docile tarantula from the Yucatan dry forest of Mexico. Prior to this study, no research had been conducted with regard to the composition and pharmacological activity of these venoms. METHODS The pharmacological characterization of the venoms was described for the first time by the assessment of their toxicity in crickets (LD50) along with their nociceptive (by using the formalin test), hyaluronidase, phospholipase A2, edematogenic and caseinolytic activity. RESULTS P. regalis and B. epicureanum venoms induced a similar lethal effect on crickets (LD50 = 5.23 ± 3.1 and 14.4 ± 5.0 μg protein/g 48 h post-injection, respectively), whereas C. darlingi venom (119.4 ± 29.5 μg protein/g 48 h post-injection) was significantly less lethal than the other two venoms. All three venoms induced similar edematogenic activity on rats but did not induce nociceptive behavior. The assessment of enzymatic activity indicated that P. regalis venom induces significantly higher hyaluronidase activity (27.6 ± 0.9 TRU/mg) than both C. darlingi (99.7 ± 1.9 TRU/mg) and B. epicureanum (99.6 ± 1.6 TRU/mg); these latter venoms did not display phospholipase A2 or caseinolytic activity. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that these theraphosid spiders of different habitats produce venoms with different activities. P. regalis venom displays a high level of hyaluronidase activity, which may be associated with its potentially medically significant bite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro García-Arredondo
- Laboratory of Chemical and Pharmacological Natural Product Research, School of Chemistry, Autonomous University of Querétaro (UAQ), Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro Mexico
| | - Luis Rodríguez-Rios
- Laboratory of Chemical and Pharmacological Natural Product Research, School of Chemistry, Autonomous University of Querétaro (UAQ), Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro Mexico
| | - Luis Fernando Díaz-Peña
- Laboratory of Chemical and Pharmacological Natural Product Research, School of Chemistry, Autonomous University of Querétaro (UAQ), Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro Mexico
| | - Ricardo Vega-Ángeles
- Laboratory of Chemical and Pharmacological Natural Product Research, School of Chemistry, Autonomous University of Querétaro (UAQ), Santiago de Querétaro, Querétaro Mexico
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