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Dias NB, de Souza BM, Cid-Alda F, Dorce VAC, Cocchi FK, Palma MS. Profiling the Linear Peptides of Venom from the Brazilian Scorpion Tityus serrulatus: Structural and Functional Characterization. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2024; 87:480-490. [PMID: 38408354 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.3c01085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Scorpion venoms are a rich source of bioactive peptides, most of which are neurotoxic, with 30 to 70 amino acid residues in their sequences. There are a scarcity of reports in the literature concerning the short linear peptides found in scorpion venoms. This type of peptide toxin may be selectively extracted from the venom using 50% (v/v) acetonitrile. The use of LC-MS and MS/MS enabled the detection of 12 bioactive short linear peptides, of which six were identified as cryptides. These peptides were shown to be multifunctional, causing hemolysis, mast cell degranulation and lysis, edema, pain, and anxiety, increasing the complexity of the envenomation mechanism. Apparently, the natural functions of these peptide toxins are to induce inflammation and discomfort in the victims of scorpion stings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalia Baptista Dias
- Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN-UFRO), Universidad de La Frontera (UFRO), Temuco 4811230, Chile
| | - Bibiana Monson de Souza
- Department of Basic and Applied Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, University of São Paulo State (UNESP), São Paulo 13506-900, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Cid-Alda
- Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN-UFRO), Universidad de La Frontera (UFRO), Temuco 4811230, Chile
| | | | - Fernando Kamimura Cocchi
- Department of Basic and Applied Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, University of São Paulo State (UNESP), São Paulo 13506-900, Brazil
| | - Mario Sergio Palma
- Department of Basic and Applied Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, University of São Paulo State (UNESP), São Paulo 13506-900, Brazil
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Duque HM, Dos Santos C, Brango-Vanegas J, Díaz-Martín RD, Dias SC, Franco OL. Unwrapping the structural and functional features of antimicrobial peptides from wasp venoms. Pharmacol Res 2024; 200:107069. [PMID: 38218356 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
The study of wasp venoms has captured attention due to the presence of a wide variety of active compounds, revealing a diverse array of biological effects. Among these compounds, certain antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) such as mastoparans and chemotactic peptides have emerged as significant players, characterized by their unique amphipathic short linear alpha-helical structure. These peptides exhibit not only antibiotic properties but also a range of other biological activities, which are related to their ability to interact with biological membranes to varying degrees. This review article aims to provide updated insights into the structure/function relationships of AMPs derived from wasp venoms, linking this knowledge to the potential development of innovative treatments against infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry Morales Duque
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, PC: (CEP) 70.790-160 Brasília, DF, Brazil.
| | - Cristiane Dos Santos
- S-Inova Biotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, PC: (CEP) 79117-010 Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - José Brango-Vanegas
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, PC: (CEP) 70.790-160 Brasília, DF, Brazil; S-Inova Biotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, PC: (CEP) 79117-010 Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Ruben Dario Díaz-Martín
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, PC: (CEP) 70.790-160 Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Simoni Campos Dias
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, PC: (CEP) 70.790-160 Brasília, DF, Brazil; Program in Animal Biology, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF70910-900, Brazil
| | - Octávio Luiz Franco
- Centro de Análises Proteômicas e Bioquímicas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Genômicas e Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica de Brasília, PC: (CEP) 70.790-160 Brasília, DF, Brazil; S-Inova Biotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, PC: (CEP) 79117-010 Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
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Ye X, Liu X, Luo X, Sun F, Qin C, Ding L, Zhu W, Zhang H, Zhou H, Chen Z. Characterization of the Molecular Diversity and Degranulation Activity of Mastoparan Family Peptides from Wasp Venoms. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15050331. [PMID: 37235365 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15050331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Wasp stings have become an increasingly serious public health problem because of their high incidence and mortality rates in various countries and regions. Mastoparan family peptides are the most abundant natural peptides in hornet venoms and solitary wasp venom. However, there is a lack of systematic and comprehensive studies on mastoparan family peptides from wasp venoms. In our study, for the first time, we evaluated the molecular diversity of 55 wasp mastoparan family peptides from wasp venoms and divided them into four major subfamilies. Then, we established a wasp peptide library containing all 55 known mastoparan family peptides by chemical synthesis and C-terminal amidation modification, and we systematically evaluated their degranulation activities in two mast cell lines, namely the RBL-2H3 and P815 cell lines. The results showed that among the 55 mastoparans, 35 mastoparans could significantly induce mast cell degranulation, 7 mastoparans had modest mast cell degranulation activity, and 13 mastoparans had little mast cell degranulation activity, suggesting functional variation in mastoparan family peptides from wasp venoms. Structure-function relationship studies found that the composition of amino acids in the hydrophobic face and amidation in the C-terminal region are critical for the degranulation activity of mastoparan family peptides from wasp venoms. Our research will lay a theoretical foundation for studying the mechanism underlying the degranulation activity of wasp mastoparans and provide new evidence to support the molecular design and molecular optimization of natural mastoparan peptides from wasp venoms in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangdong Ye
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wudang Local Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Xin Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Xudong Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wudang Local Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Fang Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wudang Local Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Chenhu Qin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wudang Local Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Li Ding
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Dongfeng Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Wen Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wudang Local Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Huajun Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Haimei Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Zongyun Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Basic Medicine, Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wudang Local Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, China
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Bioactive Peptides and Proteins from Wasp Venoms. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12040527. [PMID: 35454116 PMCID: PMC9025469 DOI: 10.3390/biom12040527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Wasps, members of the order Hymenoptera, use their venom for predation and defense. Accordingly, their venoms contain various constituents acting on the circulatory, immune and nervous systems. Wasp venom possesses many allergens, enzymes, bioactive peptides, amino acids, biogenic amines, and volatile matters. In particular, some peptides show potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and anticoagulant activity. Additionally, proteinous components from wasp venoms can cause tissue damage or allergic reactions in organisms. These bioactive peptides and proteins involved in wasp predation and defense may be potential sources of lead pharmaceutically active molecules. In this review, we focus on the advances in bioactive peptides and protein from the venom of wasps and their biological effects, as well as the allergic reactions and immunotherapy induced by the wasp venom.
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Wu YH, Zhang Y, Fang DQ, Chen J, Wang JA, Jiang L, Lv ZF. Characterization of the Composition and Biological Activity of the Venom from Vespa bicolor Fabricius, a Wasp from South China. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14010059. [PMID: 35051036 PMCID: PMC8777732 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14010059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We analyzed, for the first time, the major components and biological properties of the venom of Vespa bicolor, a wasp from South China. Using HPLC and SDS-PAGE, combined with LC–MS/MS, MALDI-TOF-MS, and NMR data to analyze V. bicolor venom (VBV), we found that VBV contains three proteins (hyaluronidase A, phospholipase A1 (two isoforms), and antigen 5 protein) with allergenic activity, two unreported proteins (proteins 5 and 6), and two active substances with large quantities (mastoparan-like peptide 12a (Vb-MLP 12a), and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)). In addition, the antimicrobial activity of VBV was determined, and results showed that it had a significant effect against anaerobic bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration for Propionibacterium acnes were 12.5 µg/mL. Unsurprisingly, VBV had strong antioxidant activity because of the abundance of 5-HT. Contrary to other Vespa venom, VBV showed significant anti-inflammatory activity, even at low concentrations (1 µg/mL), and we found that Vb-MLP 12a showed pro-inflammatory activity by promoting the proliferation of RAW 264.7 cells. Cytotoxicity studies showed that VBV had similar antiproliferative effects against all tested tumor cell lines (HepG2, Hela, MCF-7, A549, and SASJ-1), with HepG2 being the most susceptible. Overall, this study on VBV has high clinical importance and promotes the development of Vespa bicolor resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Hua Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (Y.-H.W.); (D.-Q.F.)
- Guangdong Technology Research Center for Advanced Chinese Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (Y.Z.); (J.C.)
- Production and Research Base for Wasp Deinsectization, Guangdong Huxin Biotech Technology Co., Ltd., Jiangmen 529245, China;
| | - Yu Zhang
- Guangdong Technology Research Center for Advanced Chinese Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (Y.Z.); (J.C.)
| | - Dan-Qiao Fang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (Y.-H.W.); (D.-Q.F.)
| | - Jing Chen
- Guangdong Technology Research Center for Advanced Chinese Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (Y.Z.); (J.C.)
| | - Jing-An Wang
- Production and Research Base for Wasp Deinsectization, Guangdong Huxin Biotech Technology Co., Ltd., Jiangmen 529245, China;
| | - Lin Jiang
- Guangdong Technology Research Center for Advanced Chinese Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (Y.Z.); (J.C.)
- Correspondence: (L.J.); (Z.-F.L.)
| | - Zhu-Fen Lv
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Delivery Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (Y.-H.W.); (D.-Q.F.)
- Correspondence: (L.J.); (Z.-F.L.)
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6
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Costa-Lotufo LV, Colepicolo P, Pupo MT, Palma MS. Bioprospecting macroalgae, marine and terrestrial invertebrates & their associated microbiota. BIOTA NEOTROPICA 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1676-0611-bn-2022-1345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract The present review aims the discussion of the impact of the bioprospection initiative developed by the projects associated to BIOprospecTA, a subprogram of the program BIOTA, supported by FAPESP. This review brings a summary of the main results produced by the projects investigating natural products (NPs) from non-plants organisms, as examples of the success of this initiative, focusing on the progresses achieved by the projects related to NPs from macroalgae, marine invertebrates, arthropods and associated microorganisms. Macroalgae are one of the most studied groups in Brazil with the isolation of many bioactive compounds including lipids, carotenoids, phycocolloids, lectins, mycosporine-like amino acids and halogenated compounds. Marine invertebrates and associated microorganisms have been more systematically studied in the last thirty years, revealing unique compounds, with potent biological activities. The venoms of Hymenopteran insects were also extensively studied, resulting in the identification of hundreds of peptides, which were used to create a chemical library that contributed for the identification of leader models for the development of antifungal, antiparasitic, and anticancer compounds. The built knowledge of Hymenopteran venoms permitted the development of an equine hyperimmune serum anti honeybee venom. Amongst the microorganisms associated with insects the bioprospecting strategy was to understand the molecular basis of intra- and interspecies interactions (Chemical Ecology), translating this knowledge to possible biotechnological applications. The results discussed here reinforce the importance of BIOprospecTA program on the development of research with highly innovative potential in Brazil.
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Shetab-Boushehri SMH, Hosseini A, Rafinejad J, Ebadollahi-Natanzi A, Shetab-Boushehri SV. Cytotoxic, necrotic, apoptotic, and autophagic properties of venom sac extract of Vespa orientalis in T47D and MCF10A breast cell lines. TOXIN REV 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/15569543.2021.2007404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Asieh Hosseini
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Rafinejad
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Ebadollahi-Natanzi
- Medicinal Plants Department, Imam Khomeini Higher Education Center, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Seyed Vahid Shetab-Boushehri
- Razi Drug Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Ameretat Shimi Pharmaceutical Co, Tehran, Iran
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8
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Wasp Venom Biochemical Components and Their Potential in Biological Applications and Nanotechnological Interventions. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13030206. [PMID: 33809401 PMCID: PMC8000949 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13030206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Wasps, members of the order Hymenoptera, are distributed in different parts of the world, including Brazil, Thailand, Japan, Korea, and Argentina. The lifestyles of the wasps are solitary and social. Social wasps use venom as a defensive measure to protect their colonies, whereas solitary wasps use their venom to capture prey. Chemically, wasp venom possesses a wide variety of enzymes, proteins, peptides, volatile compounds, and bioactive constituents, which include phospholipase A2, antigen 5, mastoparan, and decoralin. The bioactive constituents have anticancer, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the limited quantities of wasp venom and the scarcity of advanced strategies for the synthesis of wasp venom’s bioactive compounds remain a challenge facing the effective usage of wasp venom. Solid-phase peptide synthesis is currently used to prepare wasp venom peptides and their analogs such as mastoparan, anoplin, decoralin, polybia-CP, and polydim-I. The goal of the current review is to highlight the medicinal value of the wasp venom compounds, as well as limitations and possibilities. Wasp venom could be a potential and novel natural source to develop innovative pharmaceuticals and new agents for drug discovery.
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Muller JAI, Lawrence N, Chan LY, Harvey PJ, Elliott AG, Blaskovich MAT, Gonçalves JC, Galante P, Mortari MR, Toffoli-Kadri MC, Koehbach J, Craik DJ. Antimicrobial and Anticancer Properties of Synthetic Peptides Derived from the Wasp Parachartergus fraternus. Chembiochem 2021; 22:1415-1423. [PMID: 33244888 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Agelaia-MPI and protonectin are antimicrobial peptides isolated from the wasp Parachartergus fraternus that show antimicrobial and neuroactive activities. Previously, two analogues of these peptides, neuroVAL and protonectin-F, were designed to reduce nonspecific toxicity and improve potency. Here, the three-dimensional structures of neuroVAL, protonectin and protonectin-F were determined by using circular dichroism and NMR spectroscopy. Antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic and hemolytic activities were tested for the parent peptides and analogues. All peptides showed moderate antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria, with agelaia-MPI being the most active. Protonectin and protonectin-F were found to be toxic to cancerous and noncancerous cell lines. Internalization experiments revealed that these peptides accumulate inside both cell types. By contrast, neuroVAL was nontoxic to all tested cells and was able to enter cells without accumulating. In summary, neuroVAL has potential as a nontoxic cell-penetrating peptide, while protonectin-F needs further modification to realize its potential as an antitumor peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A I Muller
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia.,Laboratory of Pharmacology and Inflammation, FACFAN/Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Nicole Lawrence
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Lai Yue Chan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Peta J Harvey
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Alysha G Elliott
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Superbug Solutions, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Mark A T Blaskovich
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Centre for Superbug Solutions, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Jacqueline C Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, IB/University of Brasilia, Federal District, Brasilia, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Priscilla Galante
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, IB/University of Brasilia, Federal District, Brasilia, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Marcia R Mortari
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, IB/University of Brasilia, Federal District, Brasilia, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Mônica C Toffoli-Kadri
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Inflammation, FACFAN/Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Johannes Koehbach
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - David J Craik
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
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Pro-inflammatory response induced by the venom of Parachartergus fraternus wasp. Toxicon 2020; 190:11-19. [PMID: 33290790 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.11.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The sting of different wasp species triggers local and systemic reactions in victims that can lead to death. Parachartergus fraternus is responsible for frequent accidents in Latin America; however, few studies have been conducted on this insect and its venom. In this study, the inflammatory process induced by the venom of the P. fraternus wasp (Pfv; 100, 200, and 400 μg/kg) was characterized. Mice were used to assess paw edema, vascular permeability, mast cell degranulation, leukocyte influx, nitric oxide (NO) production, expression of inflammatory genes, and histopathological changes. Pfv triggered edema formation with a peak dose of 200 μg/kg at 10 min. There was an increase in permeability in all periods and doses evaluated, with no differences between them. The 200 μg/kg dose induced mast cell degranulation in all periods, with a peak at 15 min. This same dose induced leukocyte influx with a predominance of mononuclear cells and triggered a peak in NO production in the 12th hour. The increase in COX-2, iNOS, and IFN-γ mRNA expression occurred after 1 and 6 h, and there was an increase in IL-10 expression after 48 h. In addition, Pfv triggered edema and induced an influx of macrophages and mast cells into the injection site. Therefore, Pfv induces an inflammatory process from the first 5 min of inoculation that can persist for up to 48 h.
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Fraternine, a Novel Wasp Peptide, Protects against Motor Impairments in 6-OHDA Model of Parkinsonism. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12090550. [PMID: 32867207 PMCID: PMC7551070 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12090550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects the Central Nervous System (CNS). Insect venoms show high molecular variability and selectivity in the CNS of mammals and present potential for the development of new drugs for the treatment of PD. In this study, we isolated and identified a component of the venom of the social wasp Parachartergus fraternus and evaluated its neuroprotective activity in the murine model of PD. For this purpose, the venom was filtered and separated through HPLC; fractions were analyzed through mass spectrometry and the active fraction was identified as a novel peptide, called Fraternine. We performed two behavioral tests to evaluate motor discoordination, as well as an apomorphine-induced rotation test. We also conducted an immunohistochemical assay to assess protection in TH+ neurons in the Substantia Nigra (SN) region. Group treated with 10 μg/animal of Fraternine remained longer in the rotarod compared to the lesioned group. In the apomorphine test, Fraternine decreased the number of rotations between treatments. This dose also inhibited dopaminergic neuronal loss, as indicated by immunohistochemical analysis. This study identified a novel peptide able to prevent the death of dopaminergic neurons of the SN and recover motor deficit in a 6-OHDA-induced murine model of PD.
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12
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Herrera C, Leza M, Martínez-López E. Diversity of compounds in Vespa spp. venom and the epidemiology of its sting: a global appraisal. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:3609-3627. [PMID: 32700166 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02859-3] [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: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Poisonous animals imply a risk to human life, because their venom is a complex mixture of low molecular weight components, peptides and proteins. Hornets use the venom for self-defence, to repel intruders and to capture prey, but they can cause poisoning and allergic reactions to people. In particular, they seem to be a health problem in the countries where they are native due to their sting, which in the most severe cases can lead to severe or fatal systemic anaphylaxis. But this situation is being an emerging problem for new countries and continents because hornet incursions are increasing in the global change scenario, such as in Europe and America. Furthermore, 55 detailed cases of hornet sting were found in 27 papers during the current review where 36.4% died due to, mainly, a multi-organ failure, where renal failure and liver dysfunction were the most common complications. Moreover, the great taxonomic, ecological diversity, geographical distribution and the wide spectrum of pathophysiological symptoms of hornets have been the focus of new research. Considering this, the present systematic review summarizes the current knowledge about the components of Vespa venom and the epidemiology of its sting to serve as reference for the new research focused on the development of techniques for diagnosis, new drugs and treatments of its sting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cayetano Herrera
- Department of Biology (Zoology), University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | - Mar Leza
- Department of Biology (Zoology), University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain.
| | - Emma Martínez-López
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.,Toxicology and Risk Assessment Group, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
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Valli M, Russo HM, Pilon AC, Pinto MEF, Dias NB, Freire RT, Castro-Gamboa I, Bolzani VDS. Computational methods for NMR and MS for structure elucidation I: software for basic NMR. PHYSICAL SCIENCES REVIEWS 2019. [DOI: 10.1515/psr-2018-0108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Structure elucidation is an important and sometimes time-consuming step for natural products research. This step has evolved in the past few years to a faster and more automated process due to the development of several computational programs and analytical techniques. In this paper, the topics of NMR prediction and CASE programs are addressed. Furthermore, the elucidation of natural peptides is discussed.
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Pharmacological Characterization of Mouse Hind Paw Edema Induced by Parachartergus fraternus Venom. Inflammation 2019; 42:2011-2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10753-019-01062-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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15
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José Palmieri M, Ribeiro Barroso A, Fonseca Andrade-Vieira L, Monteiro MC, Martins Soares A, Souza Cesar PH, Aparecida Braga M, Cardoso Trento MV, Marcussi S, Chamma Davide L. Polybia occidentalis and Polybia fastidiosa venom: a cytogenotoxic approach of effects on human and vegetal cells. Drug Chem Toxicol 2019; 44:566-574. [PMID: 31259620 DOI: 10.1080/01480545.2019.1631339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The venoms of wasps are a complex mixture of biologically active compounds, such as low molecular mass compounds, peptides, and proteins. The aim of the study was to evaluate the action of wasp venoms, Polybia occidentalis and Polybia fastidiosa, on the DNA of human leukocytes and on the cell cycle and genetic material of the plant model Lactuca sativa L. (lettuce). The cultured leukocytes were treated with the venoms and then evaluated by the comet assay. On another assay, seeds were exposed to a venom solution; the emitted roots were collected and the occurrence of cell cycle alterations (CCAs) and DNA fragmentation were evaluated by agarose gel electrophoresis and TUNEL assay. The results demonstrated that the venom of both wasps induces several CCAs and reduces the mitotic index (MI) on treated cells. They induced damage on human leukocytes DNA. High frequencies of fragments were observed in cells exposed to P. occidentalis venom, while those exposed to P. fastidiosa showed a high frequency of non-oriented chromosome. Both venoms induced the occurrence of various condensed nuclei (CN). This alteration is an excellent cytological mark to cell death (CD). Additionally, CD was evidenced by positive signals in TUNEL assay, by DNA fragmentation in agarose gel electrophoresis with vegetal cells, and by DNA fragmentation of the human leukocytes evaluated. Furthermore, human leukocytes exposed to the venom of P. fastidiosa had high rate of damage. The data demonstrate that both vegetal and human cells are adequate to evaluate the genotoxicity induced by venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Andreimar Martins Soares
- Fiocruz Rondônia e Departamento de Medicina, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Centro de Estudos de Biomoléculas Aplicadas à Saúde, CEBio, Universidade Federal de Rondônia (UNIR), Porto Velho, Brazil
| | | | - Mariana Aparecida Braga
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry Laboratory, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, Brazil
| | | | - Silvana Marcussi
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry Laboratory, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, Brazil
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de Souza CL, Dos Santos-Pinto JRA, Esteves FG, Perez-Riverol A, Fernandes LGR, de Lima Zollner R, Palma MS. Revisiting Polybia paulista wasp venom using shotgun proteomics - Insights into the N-linked glycosylated venom proteins. J Proteomics 2019; 200:60-73. [PMID: 30905720 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2019.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The partial proteome of Polybia paulista wasp venom was previously reported elsewhere using a gel-dependent approach and resulted in the identification of a limited number of venom toxins. Here, we reinvestigated the P. paulista venom using a gel-free shotgun proteomic approach; the highly dynamic range of this approach facilitated the detection and identification of 1673 proteins, of which 23 venom proteins presented N-linked glycosylation as a posttranslational modification. Three different molecular forms of PLA1 were identified as allergenic proteins, and two of these forms were modified by N-linked glycosylation. This study reveals an extensive repertoire of hitherto undescribed proteins that were classified into the following six different functional groups: (i) typical venom proteins; (ii) proteins related to the folding/conformation and PTMs of toxins; (iii) proteins that protect toxins from oxidative stress; (iv) proteins involved in chemical communication; (v) housekeeping proteins; and (vi) uncharacterized proteins. It was possible to identify venom toxin-like proteins that are commonly reported in other animal venoms, including arthropods such as spiders and scorpions. Thus, the findings reported here may contribute to improving our understanding of the composition of P. paulista venom, its envenoming mechanism and the pathologies experienced by the victim after the wasp stinging accident. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The present study significantly expanded the number of proteins identified in P. paulista venom, contributing to improvements in our understanding of the envenoming mechanism produced by sting accidents caused by this wasp. For example, novel wasp venom neurotoxins have been identified, but no studies have assessed the presence of this type of toxin in social wasp venoms. In addition, 23 N-linked glycosylated venom proteins were identified in the P. paulista venom proteome, and some of these proteins might be relevant allergens that are immunoreactive to human IgE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Lacerra de Souza
- Center of the Study of Social Insects, Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, São Paulo State University, Rio Claro, SP 13500, Brazil
| | - José Roberto Aparecido Dos Santos-Pinto
- Center of the Study of Social Insects, Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, São Paulo State University, Rio Claro, SP 13500, Brazil.
| | - Franciele Grego Esteves
- Center of the Study of Social Insects, Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, São Paulo State University, Rio Claro, SP 13500, Brazil
| | - Amilcar Perez-Riverol
- Center of the Study of Social Insects, Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, São Paulo State University, Rio Claro, SP 13500, Brazil
| | - Luís Gustavo Romani Fernandes
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Cidade Universitária "Zeferino Vaz", Campinas, SP 13083887, Brazil
| | - Ricardo de Lima Zollner
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Cidade Universitária "Zeferino Vaz", Campinas, SP 13083887, Brazil
| | - Mario Sergio Palma
- Center of the Study of Social Insects, Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, São Paulo State University, Rio Claro, SP 13500, Brazil.
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Rungsa P, Peigneur S, Daduang S, Tytgat J. Purification and biochemical characterization of VesT1s, a novel phospholipase A1 isoform isolated from the venom of the greater banded wasp Vespa tropica. Toxicon 2018; 148:74-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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18
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dos Santos-Pinto JRA, Perez-Riverol A, Lasa AM, Palma MS. Diversity of peptidic and proteinaceous toxins from social Hymenoptera venoms. Toxicon 2018; 148:172-196. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.04.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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A membrane disrupting toxin from wasp venom underlies the molecular mechanism of tissue damage. Toxicon 2018; 148:56-63. [PMID: 29654869 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The molecular mechanism of the local hypersensitivity reactions to wasp venom including dermal necrosis remains an enigma regardless of the numerosity of the reported cases. In this study, we discovered a new membrane disrupting toxin, VESCP-M2 responsible for tissue damage symptoms following Vespa mandarinia envenomation. Electrophysiological assays revealed a potent ability of VESCP-M2 to permeate the cell membrane whereas in vivo experiments demonstrated that VESCP-M2 induces edema, pain and dermal necrosis characterized by the presence of morphological and behavioral phenotypes, pro-inflammatory mediators, biomarkers as well as the disruption of dermal tissue. This study presents the molecular mechanism and symptom-related function of VESCP-M2 which may form a basis for prognosis as well as therapeutic interventions.
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Profiling the short, linear, non-disulfide bond-containing peptidome from the venom of the scorpion Tityus obscurus. J Proteomics 2018; 170:70-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2017.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Venomics of Remipede Crustaceans Reveals Novel Peptide Diversity and Illuminates the Venom's Biological Role. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:toxins9080234. [PMID: 28933727 PMCID: PMC5577568 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9080234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the first integrated proteomic and transcriptomic investigation of a crustacean venom. Remipede crustaceans are the venomous sister group of hexapods, and the venom glands of the remipede Xibalbanus tulumensis express a considerably more complex cocktail of proteins and peptides than previously thought. We identified 32 venom protein families, including 13 novel peptide families that we name xibalbins, four of which lack similarities to any known structural class. Our proteomic data confirm the presence in the venom of 19 of the 32 families. The most highly expressed venom components are serine peptidases, chitinase and six of the xibalbins. The xibalbins represent Inhibitory Cystine Knot peptides (ICK), a double ICK peptide, peptides with a putative Cystine-stabilized α-helix/β-sheet motif, a peptide similar to hairpin-like β-sheet forming antimicrobial peptides, two peptides related to different hormone families, and four peptides with unique structural motifs. Remipede venom components represent the full range of evolutionary recruitment frequencies, from families that have been recruited into many animal venoms (serine peptidases, ICKs), to those having a very narrow taxonomic range (double ICKs), to those unique for remipedes. We discuss the most highly expressed venom components to shed light on their possible functional significance in the predatory and defensive use of remipede venom, and to provide testable ideas for any future bioactivity studies.
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Perez-Riverol A, Dos Santos-Pinto JRA, Lasa AM, Palma MS, Brochetto-Braga MR. Wasp venomic: Unravelling the toxins arsenal of Polybia paulista venom and its potential pharmaceutical applications. J Proteomics 2017; 161:88-103. [PMID: 28435107 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2017.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Polybia paulista (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) is a neotropical social wasp from southeast Brazil. As most social Hymenoptera, venom from P. paulista comprises a complex mixture of bioactive toxins ranging from low molecular weight compounds to peptides and proteins. Several efforts have been made to elucidate the molecular composition of the P. paulista venom. Data derived from proteomic, peptidomic and allergomic analyses has enhanced our understanding of the whole envenoming process caused by the insect sting. The combined use of bioinformatics, -omics- and molecular biology tools have allowed the identification, characterization, in vitro synthesis and recombinant expression of several wasp venom toxins. Some of these P. paulista - derived bioactive compounds have been evaluated for the rational design of antivenoms and the improvement of allergy specific diagnosis and immunotherapy. Molecular characterization of crude venom extract has enabled the description and isolation of novel toxins with potential biotechnological applications. Here, we review the different approaches that have been used to unravel the venom composition of P. paulista. We also describe the main groups of P. paulista - venom toxins currently identified and analyze their potential in the development of component-resolved diagnosis of allergy, and in the rational design of antivenoms and novel bioactive drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amilcar Perez-Riverol
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Artrópodes-LBMA-IBRC-UNESP (Univ Estadual Paulista), Av. 24-A, n° 1515, CEP 13506-900, Bela Vista, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil.
| | | | - Alexis Musacchio Lasa
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Biomedical Research Division, System Biology Department, Ave. 31, e/158 and 190, P.O. Box 6162, Cubanacan, Playa, Havana 10600, Cuba.
| | - Mario Sergio Palma
- Centro de Estudos de Insetos Sociais-CEIS-IBRC-UNESP (Univ Estadual Paulista), Av. 24-A, n° 1515, CEP 13506-900, Bela Vista, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil.
| | - Márcia Regina Brochetto-Braga
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Artrópodes-LBMA-IBRC-UNESP (Univ Estadual Paulista), Av. 24-A, n° 1515, CEP 13506-900, Bela Vista, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil; Centro de Estudos de Venenos e Animais Peçonhentos-CEVAP (Univ Estadual Paulista), Rua José Barbosa de Barros, 1780, Fazenda Experimental Lageado, Botucatu 18610-307, SP, Brazil.
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Utkin YN. Modern trends in animal venom research - omics and nanomaterials. World J Biol Chem 2017; 8:4-12. [PMID: 28289514 PMCID: PMC5329713 DOI: 10.4331/wjbc.v8.i1.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/28/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal venom research is a specialized investigation field, in which a number of different methods are used and this array is constantly expanding. Thus, recently emerged omics and nanotechnologies have already been successfully applied to venom research. Animal venoms have been studied for quite a long time. The traditional reductionist approach has been to isolate individual toxins and then study their structure and function. Unfortunately, the characterization of the venom as a whole system and its multiple effects on an entire organism were not possible until recent times. The development of new methods in mass spectrometry and sequencing have allowed such characterizations of venom, encompassing the identification of new toxins present in venoms at extremely low concentrations to changes in metabolism of prey organisms after envenomation. In particular, this type of comprehensive research has become possible due to the development of the various omics technologies: Proteomics, peptidomics, transcriptomics, genomics and metabolomics. As in other research fields, these omics technologies ushered in a revolution for venom studies, which is now entering the era of big data. Nanotechnology is a very new branch of technology and developing at an extremely rapid pace. It has found application in many spheres and has not bypassed the venom studies. Nanomaterials are quite promising in medicine, and most studies combining venoms and nanomaterials are dedicated to medical applications. Conjugates of nanoparticles with venom components have been proposed for use as drugs or diagnostics. For example, nanoparticles conjugated with chlorotoxin - a toxin in scorpion venom, which has been shown to bind specifically to glioma cells - are considered as potential glioma-targeted drugs, and conjugates of neurotoxins with fluorescent semiconductor nanoparticles or quantum dots may be used to detect endogenous targets expressed in live cells. The data on application of omics and nanotechnologies in venom research are systematized concisely in this paper.
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Lee SH, Baek JH, Yoon KA. Differential Properties of Venom Peptides and Proteins in Solitary vs. Social Hunting Wasps. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:32. [PMID: 26805885 PMCID: PMC4773785 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8020032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2015] [Revised: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The primary functions of venoms from solitary and social wasps are different. Whereas most solitary wasps sting their prey to paralyze and preserve it, without killing, as the provisions for their progeny, social wasps usually sting to defend their colonies from vertebrate predators. Such distinctive venom properties of solitary and social wasps suggest that the main venom components are likely to be different depending on the wasps' sociality. The present paper reviews venom components and properties of the Aculeata hunting wasps, with a particular emphasis on the comparative aspects of venom compositions and properties between solitary and social wasps. Common components in both solitary and social wasp venoms include hyaluronidase, phospholipase A2, metalloendopeptidase, etc. Although it has been expected that more diverse bioactive components with the functions of prey inactivation and physiology manipulation are present in solitary wasps, available studies on venom compositions of solitary wasps are simply too scarce to generalize this notion. Nevertheless, some neurotoxic peptides (e.g., pompilidotoxin and dendrotoxin-like peptide) and proteins (e.g., insulin-like peptide binding protein) appear to be specific to solitary wasp venom. In contrast, several proteins, such as venom allergen 5 protein, venom acid phosphatase, and various phospholipases, appear to be relatively more specific to social wasp venom. Finally, putative functions of main venom components and their application are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Hyeock Lee
- Department of Agricultural Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Korea.
- Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Korea.
| | - Ji Hyeong Baek
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 660-701, Korea.
| | - Kyungjae Andrew Yoon
- Department of Agricultural Biology, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Korea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan J Calvete
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, CSIC, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Bruno Lomonte
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Universidad de Costa Rica, Costa Rica.
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