1
|
Chen W, Chen R, Zheng M, Li D, Lu L. Protective effect of scorpion venom oligopeptides in human umbilical vein endothelial cells under benzo(α)pyrene exposure. Nat Prod Res 2023:1-8. [PMID: 37746838 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2023.2261609] [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: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation and oxidative stress play pivotal role in the process of atherosclerosis. Scorpion venom is widely used as anti-cancer agent, however, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of scorpion venom peptides (SVPs) are rarely explored. In the current study, seven novel SVPs were isolated in a protective activity tracking isolation method in a cell model of benzo(α)pyrene (BaP)-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The current study showed that SVP-1 [Tyr-Thr-Trp-Glu-Ala] significantly attenuated BaP-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) over-production and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, NO and PGE2) over-expression. Furthermore, SVP-1 attenuated BaP-induced adhesion molecules over-expression and inhibited the NF-κB and AhR signalling pathways activation. Collectively, the present study, for the first time, shows that SVPs inhibit the NF-κB and AhR signalling pathways in HUVECs under BaP-exposure, which strongly suggests the therapeutic potential of SVPs against atherosclerosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chen
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Ruimin Chen
- The 960th Hospital of PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Jinan, China
| | - Man Zheng
- Dongying People's Hospital, Dongying, China
| | - Daixu Li
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- The Fourth People's Hospital of Jinan, Jinan, China
| | - Lin Lu
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Hegde M, Girisa S, Naliyadhara N, Kumar A, Alqahtani MS, Abbas M, Mohan CD, Warrier S, Hui KM, Rangappa KS, Sethi G, Kunnumakkara AB. Natural compounds targeting nuclear receptors for effective cancer therapy. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:765-822. [PMID: 36482154 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-022-10068-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Human nuclear receptors (NRs) are a family of forty-eight transcription factors that modulate gene expression both spatially and temporally. Numerous biochemical, physiological, and pathological processes including cell survival, proliferation, differentiation, metabolism, immune modulation, development, reproduction, and aging are extensively orchestrated by different NRs. The involvement of dysregulated NRs and NR-mediated signaling pathways in driving cancer cell hallmarks has been thoroughly investigated. Targeting NRs has been one of the major focuses of drug development strategies for cancer interventions. Interestingly, rapid progress in molecular biology and drug screening reveals that the naturally occurring compounds are promising modern oncology drugs which are free of potentially inevitable repercussions that are associated with synthetic compounds. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to draw our attention to the potential therapeutic effects of various classes of natural compounds that target NRs such as phytochemicals, dietary components, venom constituents, royal jelly-derived compounds, and microbial derivatives in the establishment of novel and safe medications for cancer treatment. This review also emphasizes molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways that are leveraged to promote the anti-cancer effects of these natural compounds. We have also critically reviewed and assessed the advantages and limitations of current preclinical and clinical studies on this subject for cancer prophylaxis. This might subsequently pave the way for new paradigms in the discovery of drugs that target specific cancer types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mangala Hegde
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Sosmitha Girisa
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Nikunj Naliyadhara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Aviral Kumar
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Mohammed S Alqahtani
- Radiological Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, 61421, Saudi Arabia
- BioImaging Unit, Space Research Centre, University of Leicester, Michael Atiyah Building, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, 61421, Saudi Arabia
- Electronics and Communications Department, College of Engineering, Delta University for Science and Technology, 35712, Gamasa, Egypt
| | | | - Sudha Warrier
- Division of Cancer Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Regeneration, School of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore, 560065, India
- Cuor Stem Cellutions Pvt Ltd, Manipal Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Bangalore, 560065, India
| | - Kam Man Hui
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Research, Humphrey Oei Institute of Cancer Research, National Cancer Centre, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | | | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore.
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Scorpion Venom Peptide Smp24 Revealed Apoptotic and Antiangiogenic Activities in Solid-Ehrlich Carcinoma Bearing Mice. Int J Pept Res Ther 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-023-10494-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
AbstractScorpion venom contains various peptides that could be utilized to treat various diseases, including cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the anti-cancer activity of scorpion venom peptide (Smp24) using a solid Ehrlich Carcinoma (SEC) mice model. SEC model was established by subcutaneous transplantation of SEC cells into Swiss albino female mice afterward subcutaneous injection of the Smp24 peptide compared to 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) as a standard drug. Various biochemical, hematological, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular (western blotting and RT-PCR) assays were performed to evaluate the antitumor activity of Smp24. Results revealed that Smp24 peptide significantly reduced tumor volume. Interestingly, Smp24 peptide significantly restored normal body functions in cancer-treated groups by maintaining HB, RBC’s, and WBC’s levels, reducing the elevated serum ALT and AST, and increasing total protein and albumin as well as enhancing antioxidant status through reducing the level of MDA and NO and elevating GSH, SOD, and CAT levels. Moreover, it restored the normal morphology of the liver and kidney tissues and improved hematological parameters in cancer-treated animals. Smp24 induced apoptosis in SEC cells, through upregulation of caspase-3 and BAX and the downregulation of VEGF, Bcl-2, p53, PCNA, and Ki67. Moreover, results exhibited the apoptotic and antiangiogenic effects of Smp24 against SEC cancer cells. These findings supported our previous results about the anti-cancer efficacy of Smp24 and made it a good candidate for developing effective and safe anti-cancer agents.
Collapse
|
4
|
Yu C, Li Y, Chen G, Wu C, Wang X, Zhang Y. Bioactive constituents of animal-derived traditional Chinese medicinal materials for breast cancer: opportunities and challenges. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2022; 23:547-563. [PMID: 35794685 PMCID: PMC9264107 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2101019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is globally the most common invasive cancer in women and remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. Surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and endocrine therapy are currently the main treatments for this cancer type. However, some breast cancer patients are prone to drug resistance related to chemotherapy or immunotherapy, resulting in limited treatment efficacy. Consequently, traditional Chinese medicinal materials (TCMMs) as natural products have become an attractive source of novel drugs. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge on the active components of animal-derived TCMMs, including Ophiocordycepssinensis-derived cordycepin, the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of O.sinensis, norcantharidin (NCTD), Chansu, bee venom, deer antlers, Ostreagigas, and scorpion venom, with reference to marked anti-breast cancer effects due to regulating cell cycle arrest, proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and drug resistance. In future studies, the underlying mechanisms for the antitumor effects of these components need to be further investigated by utilizing multi-omics technologies. Furthermore, large-scale clinical trials are necessary to validate the efficacy of bioactive constituents alone or in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs for breast cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chaochao Yu
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Oncology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Guopeng Chen
- Department of Hematology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Chaoyan Wu
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Xiuping Wang
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yingwen Zhang
- Department of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Rezaei A, Asgari S, Komijani S, Sadat SN, Sabatier JM, Nasrabadi D, Pooshang Bagheri K, Shahbazzadeh D, Akbari Eidgahi MR, De Waard M, Mirzahoseini H. Discovery of Leptulipin, a New Anticancer Protein from theIranian Scorpion, Hemiscorpius lepturus. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27072056. [PMID: 35408455 PMCID: PMC9000277 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27072056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality in the world. Unfortunately, the present anticancer chemotherapeutics display high cytotoxicity. Accordingly, the discovery of new anticancer agents with lower side effects is highly necessitated. This study aimed to discover an anticancer compound from Hemiscorpius lepturus scorpion venom. Bioactivity-guided chromatography was performed to isolate an active compound against colon and breast cancer cell lines. 2D electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF were performed to identify the molecule. A partial protein sequence was obtained by mass spectrometry, while the full-length was deciphered using a cDNA library of the venom gland by bioinformatics analyses and was designated as leptulipin. The gene was cloned in pET-26b, expressed, and purified. The anticancer effect and mechanism action of leptulipin were evaluated by MTT, apoptosis, and cell cycle assays, as well as by gene expression analysis of apoptosis-related genes. The treated cells displayed inhibition of cell proliferation, altered morphology, DNA fragmentation, and cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, the treated cells showed a decrease in BCL-2 expression and an increase in Bax and Caspase 9 genes. In this study, we discovered a new anticancer protein from H. lepturus scorpion venom. Leptulipin showed significant anticancer activity against breast and colon cancer cell lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Rezaei
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan 3514799422, Iran; (A.R.); (D.N.)
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran; (S.K.); (S.N.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Saeme Asgari
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran 5157944533, Iran;
| | - Samira Komijani
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran; (S.K.); (S.N.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Seyedeh Narjes Sadat
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran; (S.K.); (S.N.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Jean-Marc Sabatier
- Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology (INP), Faculté de Pharmacie, Université D’Aix-Marseille, UMR 7051, 27 Bd Jean Moulin, CEDEX 05, 13385 Marseille, France;
| | - Davood Nasrabadi
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan 3514799422, Iran; (A.R.); (D.N.)
| | - Kamran Pooshang Bagheri
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran; (S.K.); (S.N.S.); (D.S.)
- Correspondence: (K.P.B.); (M.R.A.E.); (M.D.W.); (H.M.)
| | - Delavar Shahbazzadeh
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran; (S.K.); (S.N.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Mohammad Reza Akbari Eidgahi
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan 3514799422, Iran; (A.R.); (D.N.)
- Correspondence: (K.P.B.); (M.R.A.E.); (M.D.W.); (H.M.)
| | - Michel De Waard
- L’Institut du Thorax, INSERM, CNRS, University of Nantes, 44000 Nantes, France
- LabEx “Ion Channels, Science & Therapeutics”, 65560 Valbonne, France
- Smartox Biotechnology, 6 Rue Des Platanes, 38120 Saint-Egrève, France
- Correspondence: (K.P.B.); (M.R.A.E.); (M.D.W.); (H.M.)
| | - Hasan Mirzahoseini
- Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Laboratory, Medical Biotechnology Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran 1316943551, Iran; (S.K.); (S.N.S.); (D.S.)
- Correspondence: (K.P.B.); (M.R.A.E.); (M.D.W.); (H.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Martinez-Mora E, Arredondo-Espinoza E, Casillas-Vega NG, Cantu-Cardenas ME, Balderas-Renteria I, Zarate X. The Small Metal-Binding Protein SmbP Improves the Expression and Purification of the Recombinant Antitumor-Analgesic Peptide from the Chinese Scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch in Escherichia coli. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2022; 44:550-558. [PMID: 35723324 PMCID: PMC8929023 DOI: 10.3390/cimb44020038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We have recently shown that SmbP, the small metal-binding protein of Nitrosomonas europaea, can be employed as a fusion protein to express and purify recombinant proteins and peptides in Escherichia coli. SmbP increases solubility, allows simple, one-step purification through affinity chromatography, and provides superior final yields due to its low molecular weight. In this work, we report for the first time the use of SmbP to produce a recombinant peptide with anticancer activity: the antitumor-analgesic peptide (BmK-AGAP), a neurotoxin isolated from the venom of the Chinese scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch. This peptide was expressed in Escherichia coli SHuffle for correct, cytoplasmic, disulfide bond formation and tagged with SmbP at the N-terminus to improve its solubility and allow purification using immobilized metal affinity chromatography. SmbP_BmK-AGAP was found in the soluble fraction of the cell lysate. After purification and removal of SmbP by digestion with enterokinase, 1.8 mg of pure and highly active rBmK-AGAP was obtained per liter of cell culture. rBmK-AGAP exhibited antiproliferative activity on the MCF-7 cancer cell line, with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration value of 7.24 μM. Based on these results, we considered SmbP to be a suitable carrier protein for the production of recombinant, biologically active BmK-AGAP. We propose that SmbP should be an attractive fusion protein for the expression and purification of additional recombinant proteins or peptides that display anticancer activities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Martinez-Mora
- Facultad de Ciencias Quimicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Av. Universidad s/n, Cd. Universitaria, San Nicolas de los Garza 66455, Mexico; (E.M.-M.); (E.A.-E.); (M.E.C.-C.); (I.B.-R.)
| | - Eder Arredondo-Espinoza
- Facultad de Ciencias Quimicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Av. Universidad s/n, Cd. Universitaria, San Nicolas de los Garza 66455, Mexico; (E.M.-M.); (E.A.-E.); (M.E.C.-C.); (I.B.-R.)
| | - Nestor G. Casillas-Vega
- Departamento de Patologia Clinica, Hospital Universitario Dr. Jose Eleuterio Gonzalez, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Monterrey 64460, Mexico;
| | - Maria Elena Cantu-Cardenas
- Facultad de Ciencias Quimicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Av. Universidad s/n, Cd. Universitaria, San Nicolas de los Garza 66455, Mexico; (E.M.-M.); (E.A.-E.); (M.E.C.-C.); (I.B.-R.)
| | - Isaias Balderas-Renteria
- Facultad de Ciencias Quimicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Av. Universidad s/n, Cd. Universitaria, San Nicolas de los Garza 66455, Mexico; (E.M.-M.); (E.A.-E.); (M.E.C.-C.); (I.B.-R.)
| | - Xristo Zarate
- Facultad de Ciencias Quimicas, Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, Av. Universidad s/n, Cd. Universitaria, San Nicolas de los Garza 66455, Mexico; (E.M.-M.); (E.A.-E.); (M.E.C.-C.); (I.B.-R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52-818-329-4000 (ext. 3444)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Liu Y, Li Y, Zhu Y, Zhang L, Ji J, Gui M, Li C, Song Y. Study of Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Activity of Scorpion Toxins DKK-SP1/2 from Scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch ( BmK). Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13070498. [PMID: 34357970 PMCID: PMC8310270 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13070498] [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: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Buthus martensii Karsch (BmK), is a kind of traditional Chinese medicine, which has been used for a long history for the treatment of many diseases, such as inflammation, pain and cancer. In this study, DKK-SP1/2/3 genes were screened and extracted from the cDNA library of BmK. The DKK-SP1/2/3 were expressed by using plasmid pSYPU-1b in E. coli BL21, and recombinant proteins were obtained by column chromatography. In the xylene-induced mouse ear swelling and carrageenan-induced rat paw swelling model, DKK-SP1 exerted a significant anti-inflammatory effect by inhibiting the expression of Nav1.8 channel. Meanwhile, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (COX-2, IL-6) was decreased significantly and the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10) were elevated significantly. Moreover, DKK-SP1 could significantly decrease the Nav1.8 current in acutely isolated rat DRG neurons. In the acetic acid-writhing and ION-CCI model, DKK-SP2 displayed significant analgesic activity by inhibiting the expression of the Nav1.7 channel. Moreover, DKK-SP2 could significantly inhibit the Nav1.7 current in the hNav1.7-CHO cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunxia Liu
- College of Medical Devices, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016, China; (Y.L.); (M.G.)
| | - Yan Li
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (L.Z.); (J.J.)
| | - Yuchen Zhu
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (L.Z.); (J.J.)
| | - Liping Zhang
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (L.Z.); (J.J.)
| | - Junyu Ji
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (L.Z.); (J.J.)
| | - Mingze Gui
- College of Medical Devices, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016, China; (Y.L.); (M.G.)
| | - Chunli Li
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (L.Z.); (J.J.)
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yongbo Song
- School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, 103 Wenhua Road, Shenyang 110016, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (L.Z.); (J.J.)
- Correspondence: (C.L.); (Y.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lozano-Trujillo LA, Garzón-Perdomo DK, Vargas ACR, de Los Reyes LM, Avila-Rodriguez MF, Gay OTG, Turner LF. Cytotoxic Effects of Blue Scorpion Venom (Rhopalurus junceus) in a Glioblastoma Cell Line Model. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2021; 22:636-645. [PMID: 32679017 DOI: 10.2174/1389201021666200717092207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Revised: 05/12/2020] [Accepted: 06/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is one of the leading cause of death worldwide. Besides current therapies and treatments to counter cancer, new alternatives are required to diminish the cell proliferation of oncogenic processes. METHODS One of the most promissory therapy includes the use of blue scorpion venom as a specific cytotoxic agent to kill tumoral cells, including Glioblastoma multiforme. OBJECTIVES We show evidence of the cytotoxic effect of blue scorpion venom in a cellular model of Glioblastoma multiforme. RESULTS Our results demonstrate that 50 μg/ml of scorpion venom is capable to diminish the viability of Glioblastoma populations. CONCLUSION It is possible that the action mechanism could be associated with a loss of membrane integrity. Additionally, some metalloproteinases as MMP2 and MMP9 may also participate in the potential action mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Lozano-Trujillo
- Departamento de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad del Tolima, 730006299, Ibague, Colombia
| | - Diana K Garzón-Perdomo
- Departamento de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad del Tolima, 730006299, Ibague, Colombia
| | - Andrea C R Vargas
- Departamento de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad del Tolima, 730006299, Ibague, Colombia
| | - Lina M de Los Reyes
- Departamento de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad del Tolima, 730006299, Ibague, Colombia
| | - Marco F Avila-Rodriguez
- Departamento de Ciencias Clinicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Tolima, 730006299, Ibague, Colombia
| | | | - Liliana F Turner
- Departamento de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad del Tolima, 730006299, Ibague, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Schmitz T, Pengelley S, Belau E, Suckau D, Imhof D. LC-Trapped Ion Mobility Spectrometry-TOF MS Differentiation of 2- and 3-Disulfide-Bonded Isomers of the μ-Conotoxin PIIIA. Anal Chem 2020; 92:10920-10924. [PMID: 32806900 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c02151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Disulfide bonds within cysteine-rich peptides are important for their stability and biological function. In this respect, the correct disulfide connectivity plays a decisive role. The differentiation of individual disulfide-bonded isomers by traditional high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS) is limited due to the similarity in physicochemical properties of the isomers sharing the same amino acid sequence. By using trapped ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry (TIMS-MS), several 2- and 3-disulfide-bonded isomers of the μ-conotoxin PIIIA were investigated for their distinguishability by collision cross section (CCS) values and their characteristic mobilogram traces. The isomers could be differentiated by TIMS-MS and also identified in mixing experiments. Thus, TIMS-MS provides a highly valuable and enriching addition to standard HPLC and MS analysis of conformational isomers of disulfide-rich peptides and proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Schmitz
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Stuart Pengelley
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Eckhard Belau
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Detlev Suckau
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Diana Imhof
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kazemi SM, Sabatier JM. Venoms of Iranian Scorpions (Arachnida, Scorpiones) and Their Potential for Drug Discovery. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24142670. [PMID: 31340554 PMCID: PMC6680535 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24142670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpions, a characteristic group of arthropods, are among the earliest diverging arachnids, dating back almost 440 million years. One of the many interesting aspects of scorpions is that they have venom arsenals for capturing prey and defending against predators, which may play a critical role in their evolutionary success. Unfortunately, however, scorpion envenomation represents a serious health problem in several countries, including Iran. Iran is acknowledged as an area with a high richness of scorpion species and families. The diversity of the scorpion fauna in Iran is the subject of this review, in which we report a total of 78 species and subspecies in 19 genera and four families. We also list some of the toxins or genes studied from five species, including Androctonus crassicauda, Hottentotta zagrosensis, Mesobuthus phillipsi, Odontobuthus doriae, and Hemiscorpius lepturus, in the Buthidae and Hemiscorpiidae families. Lastly, we review the diverse functions of typical toxins from the Iranian scorpion species, including their medical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mahdi Kazemi
- Zagros Herpetological Institute, No 12, Somayyeh 14 Avenue, 3715688415 Qom, Iran.
| | - Jean-Marc Sabatier
- Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, UMR 7051, Faculté de Médecine Secteur Nord, 51, Boulevard Pierre Dramard-CS80011, 13344-Marseille Cedex 15, France
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Doudou NR, Kampo S, Liu Y, Ahmmed B, Zeng D, Zheng M, Mohamadou A, Wen QP, Wang S. Monitoring the Early Antiproliferative Effect of the Analgesic-Antitumor Peptide, BmK AGAP on Breast Cancer Using Intravoxel Incoherent Motion With a Reduced Distribution of Four b-Values. Front Physiol 2019; 10:708. [PMID: 31293432 PMCID: PMC6598093 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.00708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The present study aimed to investigate the possibility of using intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to quantitatively assess the early therapeutic effect of the analgesic–antitumor peptide BmK AGAP on breast cancer and also evaluate the medical value of a reduced distribution of four b-values. Methods: IVIM diffusion MRI using 10 b-values and 4 b-values (0–1,000 s/mm2) was performed at five different time points on BALB/c mice bearing xenograft breast tumors treated with BmK AGAP. Variability in Dslow, Dfast, PF, and ADC derived from the set of 10 b-values and 4 b-values was assessed to evaluate the antitumor effect of BmK AGAP on breast tumor. Results: The data showed that PF values significantly decreased in rBmK AGAP-treated mice on day 12 (P = 0.044). PF displayed the greatest AUC but with a poor medical value (AUC = 0.65). The data showed no significant difference between IVIM measurements acquired from the two sets of b-values at different time points except in the PF on the day 3. The within-subject coefficients of variation were relatively higher in Dfast and PF. However, except for a case noticed on day 0 in PF measurements, the results indicated no statistically significant difference at various time points in the rBmK AGAP-treated or the untreated group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: IVIM showed poor medical value in the early evaluation of the antiproliferative effect of rBmK AGAP in breast cancer, suggesting sensitivity in PF. A reduced distribution of four b-values may provide remarkable measurements but with a potential loss of accuracy in the perfusion-related parameter PF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natacha Raissa Doudou
- Department of Radiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Sylvanus Kampo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yajie Liu
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Bulbul Ahmmed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Liaoning Provincial Core Lab of Glycobiology and Glycoengineering, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Dewei Zeng
- Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Minting Zheng
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Aminou Mohamadou
- Department of Radiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qing-Ping Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shaowu Wang
- Department of Radiology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.,Department of Radiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bäuml CA, Schmitz T, Paul George AA, Sudarsanam M, Hardes K, Steinmetzer T, Holle LA, Wolberg AS, Pötzsch B, Oldenburg J, Biswas A, Imhof D. Coagulation Factor XIIIa Inhibitor Tridegin: On the Role of Disulfide Bonds for Folding, Stability, and Function. J Med Chem 2019; 62:3513-3523. [PMID: 30852892 PMCID: PMC6650289 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.8b01982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tridegin is a potent and specific 66mer peptide inhibitor of coagulation factor XIIIa with six cysteines involved in three disulfide bonds. Three of the 15 possible 3-disulfide-bonded isomers have been identified, which share a bridge between cysteines 19 and 25. We synthesized the three possible 2-disulfide-bonded analogues using a targeted protecting group strategy to investigate the impact of the C19-C25 bond on tridegin's folding, stability, and function. The FXIIIa inhibitory activity of the analogues was retained, which was shown by in vitro fluorogenic activity and whole blood clotting assays. Molecular dynamics simulations of wild-type tridegin and the analogues as well as molecular docking studies with FXIIIa were performed to elucidate the impact of the C19-C25 bond on conformational stability and binding mode. The strategy of selectively reducing disulfide bonds to facilitate large-scale synthesis, while retaining the functionality of disulfide-bonded peptides, has been demonstrated with our present study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte A. Bäuml
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Thomas Schmitz
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Ajay A. Paul George
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Monica Sudarsanam
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Kornelia Hardes
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 6, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Torsten Steinmetzer
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Philipps University of Marburg, Marbacher Weg 6, 35032 Marburg, Germany
| | - Lori A. Holle
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 819 Brinkhous-Bullitt Building, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Alisa S. Wolberg
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 819 Brinkhous-Bullitt Building, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Bernd Pötzsch
- Institute of Experimental Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Johannes Oldenburg
- Institute of Experimental Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Arijit Biswas
- Institute of Experimental Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Diana Imhof
- Pharmaceutical Biochemistry and Bioanalytics, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang F, Wu Y, Zou X, Tang Q, Zhao F, Cao Z. BmK AEP, an Anti-Epileptic Peptide Distinctly Affects the Gating of Brain Subtypes of Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20030729. [PMID: 30744067 PMCID: PMC6387193 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20030729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BmK AEP, a scorpion peptide purified form the venom of Buthus martensii Karsch, has been reported to display anti-epileptic activity. Voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs) are responsible for the rising phase of action potentials (APs) in neurons and, therefore, controlling neuronal excitability. To elucidate the potential molecular mechanisms responsible for its anti-epileptic activity, we examined the influence of BmK AEP on AP firing in cortical neurons and how BmK AEP influences brain subtypes of VGSCs (Nav1.1–1.3 and Nav1.6). BmK AEP concentration-dependently suppresses neuronal excitability (AP firing) in primary cultured cortical neurons. Consistent with its inhibitory effect on AP generation, BmK AEP inhibits Na+ peak current in cortical neurons with an IC50 value of 2.12 µM by shifting the half-maximal voltage of activation of VGSC to hyperpolarized direction by ~7.83 mV without affecting the steady-state inactivation. Similar to its action on Na+ currents in cortical neurons, BmK AEP concentration-dependently suppresses the Na+ currents of Nav1.1, Nav1.3, and Nav1.6, which were heterologously expressed in HEK-293 cells, with IC50 values of 3.20, 1.46, and 0.39 µM with maximum inhibition of 82%, 56%, and 93%, respectively. BmK AEP shifts the voltage-dependent activation in the hyperpolarized direction by ~15.60 mV, ~9.97 mV, and ~6.73 mV in Nav1.1, Nav1.3, and Nav1.6, respectively, with minimal effect on steady-state inactivation. In contrast, BmK AEP minimally suppresses Nav1.2 currents (~15%) but delays the inactivation of the channel with an IC50 value of 1.69 µM. Considered together, these data demonstrate that BmK AEP is a relatively selective Nav1.6 gating modifier which distinctly affects the gating of brain subtypes of VGSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Ying Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Xiaohan Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Qinglian Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Fang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Zhengyu Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Development, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sánchez-García L, Serna N, Álamo P, Sala R, Céspedes MV, Roldan M, Sánchez-Chardi A, Unzueta U, Casanova I, Mangues R, Vázquez E, Villaverde A. Self-assembling toxin-based nanoparticles as self-delivered antitumoral drugs. J Control Release 2018; 274:81-92. [PMID: 29408658 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2017] [Revised: 01/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Loading capacity and drug leakage from vehicles during circulation in blood is a major concern when developing nanoparticle-based cell-targeted cytotoxics. To circumvent this potential issue it would be convenient the engineering of drugs as self-delivered nanoscale entities, devoid of any heterologous carriers. In this context, we have here engineered potent protein toxins, namely segments of the diphtheria toxin and the Pseudomonas aeruginosa exotoxin as self-assembling, self-delivered therapeutic materials targeted to CXCR4+ cancer stem cells. The systemic administration of both nanostructured drugs in a colorectal cancer xenograft mouse model promotes efficient and specific local destruction of target tumor tissues and a significant reduction of the tumor volume. This observation strongly supports the concept of intrinsically functional protein nanoparticles, which having a dual role as drug and carrier, are designed to be administered without the assistance of heterologous vehicles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sánchez-García
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain
| | - Naroa Serna
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain
| | - Patricia Álamo
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; Josep Carreras Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rita Sala
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Virtudes Céspedes
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mònica Roldan
- Unitat de Microscòpia Confocal, Servei d'Anatomia Patològica, Institut Pediàtric de Malalties Rares (IPER), Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Edifici Consultes Externes, Passeig Sant Joan de Déu, 2, Planta 0, 08950, Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Ugutz Unzueta
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Isolda Casanova
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; Josep Carreras Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramón Mangues
- CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, 08025 Barcelona, Spain; Josep Carreras Research Institute, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Esther Vázquez
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain
| | - Antonio Villaverde
- Institut de Biotecnologia i de Biomedicina, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; Departament de Genètica i de Microbiologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; CIBER de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yang F, Liu S, Zhang Y, Qin C, Xu L, Li W, Cao Z, Li W, Wu Y. Expression of recombinant α-toxin BmKM9 from scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch and its functional characterization on sodium channels. Peptides 2018; 99:153-160. [PMID: 28986244 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2017.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Scorpion toxins are invaluable pharmacological tools for studying ion channels and potential drugs for channelopathies. The long-chain toxins from scorpion venom with four disulfide bridges exhibit their unusual bioactivity or biotoxicity by acting on the sodium channels. However, the functional properties of most toxins are still unclear due to their tiny amounts in crude venom and their challenging production by chemical and gene engineering techniques. Here, we expressed one of the long-chain α-toxins, BmKM9, found in the venom of the scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch and characterized its pharmacological properties on sodium channels. Unlike previous toxin production, the recombinant BmKM9 (rBmKM9) possessed no additional amino acid residues such as the His-tag and thrombin cleavage site. The refolded toxin could inhibit the inactivation of rNav1.4, hNav1.5 and hNav1.7 sodium channels. Dose-response experiments were further conducted on these channels. The calculated EC50 values were 131.7±6.6nM for rNav1.4, 454.2±50.1nM for hNav1.5 and 30.9±10.3μM for hNav1.7. The channel activation experiments indicated that the rBmKM9 toxin could shift the activation curves of rNav1.4 and hNav1.5 channels toward a more negative direction and present the typical features of a β-toxin. However, instead of the same activation property on sodium channels, the rBmKM9 toxin could result in different inactivation shift capabilities on rNav1.4 and hNav1.5 channels. The V1/2 values of the steady-state inactivation were altered to be more positive for rNav1.4 and more negative for hNav1.5. Moreover, the recovery of the hNav1.5 channel from inactivation was more significantly delayed than that of the rNav1.4 channel by exposure to rBmKM9. Together, these findings highlighted that the rBmKM9 toxin presents the pharmacological properties of both α- and β-toxins, which would increase the challenge to the classical classification of scorpion toxins. Furthermore, the expression method and functional information on sodium channels would promote the potential application of toxins and contribute to further channel structural and functional studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yaoyun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Chenhu Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Lingna Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Wenhua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China; Biodrug Research Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Zhijian Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China; Biodrug Research Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Wenxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China; Biodrug Research Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
| | - Yingliang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China; Biodrug Research Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
| |
Collapse
|