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Pedron CN, Torres MDT, Oliveira CS, Silva AF, Andrade GP, Wang Y, Pinhal MAS, Cerchiaro G, da Silva Junior PI, da Silva FD, Radhakrishnan R, de la Fuente-Nunez C, Oliveira Junior VX. Molecular hybridization strategy for tuning bioactive peptide function. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1067. [PMID: 37857855 PMCID: PMC10587126 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05254-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The physicochemical and structural properties of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) determine their mechanism of action and biological function. However, the development of AMPs as therapeutic drugs has been traditionally limited by their toxicity for human cells. Tuning the physicochemical properties of such molecules may abolish toxicity and yield synthetic molecules displaying optimal safety profiles and enhanced antimicrobial activity. Here, natural peptides were modified to improve their activity by the hybridization of sequences from two different active peptide sequences. Hybrid AMPs (hAMPs) were generated by combining the amphipathic faces of the highly toxic peptide VmCT1, derived from scorpion venom, with parts of four other naturally occurring peptides having high antimicrobial activity and low toxicity against human cells. This strategy led to the design of seven synthetic bioactive variants, all of which preserved their structure and presented increased antimicrobial activity (3.1-128 μmol L-1). Five of the peptides (three being hAMPs) presented high antiplasmodial at 0.8 μmol L-1, and virtually no undesired toxic effects against red blood cells. In sum, we demonstrate that peptide hybridization is an effective strategy for redirecting biological activity to generate novel bioactive molecules with desired properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cibele Nicolaski Pedron
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, SP, 09210580, Brazil
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 04044020, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Der Torossian Torres
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Cyntia Silva Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 04044020, Brazil
| | - Adriana Farias Silva
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 04044020, Brazil
| | - Gislaine Patricia Andrade
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, SP, 09210580, Brazil
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 04044020, Brazil
| | - Yiming Wang
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Giselle Cerchiaro
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, SP, 09210580, Brazil
| | | | - Fernanda Dias da Silva
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, SP, 09210580, Brazil
| | - Ravi Radhakrishnan
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Cesar de la Fuente-Nunez
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Vani Xavier Oliveira Junior
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, SP, 09210580, Brazil.
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 04044020, Brazil.
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Wang Q, Zhou ST, Wu XM, Pang XQ, Ni LL, Yuan SM, Yang ZB, Li YH, Xiao H. GC-MS analysis of Vespa velutina auraria Smith and its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in vitro. OPEN CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1515/chem-2022-0177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Vespa velutina auraria Smith is an edible and medicinal insect in China. This study demonstrated the in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioactivities and the volatile composition identification determined by Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antioxidant activity screening results showed that the ethanol extracts of both the fresh and dried samples exhibited an efficient antioxidant activity for three models, 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzo-thiazoline-6-sulfonic acid diammonium salt) free radicals scavenging capacity, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl scavenging capacity, and ferric reducing antioxidant power. The anti-inflammatory activity screening in vitro indicated that ethanol extracts had considerable inhibitory effect on Tumor Necrosis Factor-α and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in macrophages, but had no influence on IL-6 expression. GC-MS analyses of volatile composition of V. auraria identified 46 components, representing 75.76% of the total peak areas from fresh sample, and 34 components, 84.70% of the total peak areas from dried ones. The volatile constituents were very different in the petroleum ether part of fresh and dried ones. The three major components are hentriacontane (7.76%), n-hexadecanoic acid (6.54%), and palmitoleic acid (4.50%) in the fresh sample, while they are benzeneacetaldehyde (13.11%), dodecanoic acid (7.08%), and oleic Acid (6.72%) in the dried sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Wang
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Entomoceutics, College of Pharmacy, Dali University , Dali , 671000 , People’s Republic of China
| | - Si-Tong Zhou
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Entomoceutics, College of Pharmacy, Dali University , Dali , 671000 , People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiu-Mei Wu
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Entomoceutics, College of Pharmacy, Dali University , Dali , 671000 , People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiu-Qin Pang
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Entomoceutics, College of Pharmacy, Dali University , Dali , 671000 , People’s Republic of China
| | - Lian-Li Ni
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Entomoceutics, College of Pharmacy, Dali University , Dali , 671000 , People’s Republic of China
| | - Shi-Meng Yuan
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Entomoceutics, College of Pharmacy, Dali University , Dali , 671000 , People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Bin Yang
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Entomoceutics, College of Pharmacy, Dali University , Dali , 671000 , People’s Republic of China
| | - Yue-Hua Li
- Analysis and Testing Center, Dali University , Dali , 671000 , People’s Republic of China
| | - Huai Xiao
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Entomological Biopharmaceutical R&D, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Entomoceutics, College of Pharmacy, Dali University , Dali , 671000 , People’s Republic of China
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A. Al-Shammery K, Hozzein WN. Antibacterial activities of two potential peptides extracted from Polistes wattii Cameron, 1900 (Vespidae: Polistinae) wasp venom collected at Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0264035. [PMID: 35255107 PMCID: PMC8901064 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0264035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternatives of conventional antibiotics have become an urgent need to control drug-resistant bacteria. Therefore, search for new antibacterial agents has become a trend in several microbiological and pharmaceutical scientific works. Insects, one of the most successful and evolved species on earth is known to be an effective natural source of several medically useful chemicals including antibacterial agents. There is considerable evidence of using wasp venom against medical ailments in several parts of the world. In this work venom from Polistes wattii Cameron, 1900 collected from Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia was evaluated for its antibacterial activities. Such activity was tested against four pathogenic bacteria: two-gram positive Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) and Streptococcus mutans (RCMB 017(1) ATCC 25175) and two gram-negative (Salmonella typhimurium NCTC 12023 ATCC 14028 and Enterobacter cloacae (RCMB 001(1) ATCC 23355). Also, chemical characterization of wasp venom was done using HPLC and two isolated peptides were sequenced. The result indicates the potent anti-microbial effect of the venom against the four tested bacteria. The most sensitive bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) and Streptococcus mutans (RCMB 017(1) ATCC 25175). The sequence of the two purified peptides indicates that they belong to mastoparan. The study results may pave way to use this wasp venom in future antibiotics especially in controlling skin infection by Staphylococcus aureus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kholoud A. Al-Shammery
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Ha’il University, Ha’il, Saudi Arabia
- * E-mail:
| | - Wael N. Hozzein
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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Antibacterial properties of Apis dorsata honey against some bacterial pathogens. Saudi J Biol Sci 2022; 29:730-734. [PMID: 35197738 PMCID: PMC8847928 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.09.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Now-a-days, different bioproducts are being used extensively for the welfare of mankind. However, for proper utility of any bioproduct, the exact biotechnological potential of that product should be explored. Honey is produced in almost every country on the planet. It has long been used as a medicinal agent in addition to its broader use as a popular food throughout the human history. It can be used to treat various diseases without causing any negative side effects. In the present study, the antibacterial potential of honey produced by A. dorsata was investigated at its variable concentrations (25, 50, 75 and 100 %) against four pathogenic bacterial species. The highest antimicrobial action was seen against E. coli at 100 % concentration of the honey while showing zone of inhibition of 37.5 ± 3.5 mm. However, the lowest antibacterial action was observed against E. faecalis. The overall order of growth inhibition by the honey at its 100 % concentration for the implicated bacterial species appeared as: E. coli ˃ P. aeruginosa ˃ S. aureus ˃ E. faecalis. The honey couldn’t show antibacterial action at its 25 % concentration. Our findings of the present study will be helpful for utility of the honey as an alternative medicine for curing different complications caused by microbial pathogens.
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Alberto-Silva C, Vieira Portaro FC, Kodama RT, Pantaleão HQ, Inagaki H, Nihei KI, Konno K. Comprehensive Analysis and Biological Characterization of Venom Components from Solitary Scoliid Wasp Campsomeriella annulata annulata. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:885. [PMID: 34941722 PMCID: PMC8708821 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13120885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Venoms of solitary wasps are utilized for prey capture (insects and spiders), paralyzing them with a stinger injection to be offered as food for their larvae. Thus, the identification and characterization of the components of solitary wasp venoms can have biotechnological application. In the present study, the venom components profile of a solitary scoliid wasp, Campsomeriella annulata annulata, was investigated through a comprehensive analysis using LC-MS and -MS/MS. Online mass fingerprinting revealed that the venom extract contains 138 components, and MS/MS analysis identified 44 complete sequences of the peptide components. The peptides are broadly divided into two classes: bradykinin-related peptides, and linear α-helical peptides. Among the components of the first class, the two main peptides, α-campsomerin (PRLRRLTGLSPLR) and β-campsomerin (PRLRRLTGLSPLRAP), had their biological activities evaluated. Both peptides had no effects on metallopeptidases [human neprilysin (NEP) and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)] and acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and had no cytotoxic effects. Studies with PC12 neuronal cells showed that only α-campsomerin was able to enhance cell viability, while β-campsomerin had no effect. It is noteworthy that the only difference between the primary structures from these peptides is the presence of the AP extension at the C-terminus of β-campsomerin, compared to α-campsomerin. Among the linear α-helical peptides, annulatin (ISEALKSIIVG-NH2) was evaluated for its biological activities. Annulatin showed histamine releasing activity from mast cells and low hemolytic activity, but no antimicrobial activities against all microbes tested were observed. Thus, in addition to providing unprecedented information on the whole components, the three peptides selected for the study suggest that molecules present in solitary scoliid wasp venoms may have interesting biological activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Alberto-Silva
- Experimental Morphophysiology Laboratory, Natural and Humanities Sciences Center, Federal University of ABC (UFABC), São Bernardo do Campo 09606-070, SP, Brazil;
| | - Fernanda Calheta Vieira Portaro
- Structure and Functions of Biomolecules Laboratory, Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (F.C.V.P.); (R.T.K.)
| | - Roberto Tadashi Kodama
- Structure and Functions of Biomolecules Laboratory, Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, SP, Brazil; (F.C.V.P.); (R.T.K.)
| | - Halyne Queiroz Pantaleão
- Experimental Morphophysiology Laboratory, Natural and Humanities Sciences Center, Federal University of ABC (UFABC), São Bernardo do Campo 09606-070, SP, Brazil;
| | - Hidetoshi Inagaki
- Biomedical Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-1-1 Higashi, Tsukuba 305-8566, Ibaraki, Japan;
| | - Ken-ichi Nihei
- School of Agriculture, Utsunomiya University, Utsunomiya 321-8505, Tochigi, Japan;
| | - Katsuhiro Konno
- Institute of Natural Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Toyama, Japan
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Ceftriaxone and Melittin Synergistically Promote Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13101622. [PMID: 34683915 PMCID: PMC8539663 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
High glucose levels in diabetic patients are implicated in delay wound healing that could lead to more serious clinical complications. The aim of the present work was to examine the formulation of ceftriaxone (CTX) and melittin (MEL) as nanoconjugate (nanocomplex)-loaded hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) (1.5% w/v)-based hydrogel for healing of acute wounds in diabetic rats. The CTX–MEL nanoconjugate, formulated by ion-pairing at different molar ratio, was characterized for size and zeta potential and investigated by transmission electron microscopy. CTX–MEL nanoconjugate was prepared, and its preclinical efficacy evaluated in an in vivo model of acute wound. In particular, the potential ability of the innovative CTX–MEL formulation to modulate wound closure, oxidative status, inflammatory markers, and hydroxyproline was evaluated by ELISA, while the histopathological examination was obtained by using hematoxylin and eosin or Masson’s trichrome staining techniques. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) of the excised tissue to measure collagen, type I, alpha 1 (Col1A1) expression and immunohistochemical assessment of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) were also carried out to shed some light on the mechanism of wound healing. Our results show that the CTX–MEL nanocomplex has enhanced ability to regenerate epithelium, also giving better keratinization, epidermal proliferation, and granulation tissue formation, compared to MEL, CTX, or positive control. The nanocomplex also significantly ameliorated the antioxidant status by decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) and increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. The treatment of wounded skin with the CTX–MEL nanocomplex also showed a significant reduction in interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) pro-inflammatory cytokines combined with a substantial increase in hydroxyproline, VEFG-A, and TGF-β1 protein expression compared to individual components or negative control group. Additionally, the CTX–MEL nanocomplex showed a significant increase in mRNA expression levels of Col1A1 as compared to individual compounds. In conclusion, the ion-pairing nanocomplex of CTX–MEL represents a promising carrier that can be topically applied to improve wound healing.
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Promising Antimicrobial Properties of Bioactive Compounds from Different Honeybee Products. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26134007. [PMID: 34209107 PMCID: PMC8272120 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26134007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Bee products have been known for centuries for their versatile healing properties. In recent decades they have become the subject of documented scientific research. This review aims to present and compare the impact of bee products and their components as antimicrobial agents. Honey, propolis, royal jelly and bee venom are bee products that have antibacterial properties. Sensitivity of bacteria to these products varies considerably between products and varieties of the same product depending on their origin. According to the type of bee product, different degrees of activity were observed against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts, molds and dermatophytes, as well as biofilm-forming microorganisms. Pseudomonas aeruginosa turned out to be the most resistant to bee products. An analysis of average minimum inhibitory concentration values for bee products showed that bee venom has the strongest bacterial effectiveness, while royal jelly showed the weakest antibacterial activity. The most challenging problems associated with using bee products for medical purposes are dosage and safety. The complexity and variability in composition of these products raise the need for their standardization before safe and predictable clinical uses can be achieved.
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Lopez SMM, Aguilar JS, Fernandez JBB, Lao AGJ, Estrella MRR, Devanadera MKP, Ramones CMV, Villaraza AJL, Guevarra LA, Santiago-Bautista MR, Santiago LA. Neuroactive venom compounds obtained from Phlogiellus bundokalbo as potential leads for neurodegenerative diseases: insights on their acetylcholinesterase and beta-secretase inhibitory activities in vitro. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210009. [PMID: 34249120 PMCID: PMC8237997 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spider venom is a rich cocktail of neuroactive compounds designed to prey capture and defense against predators that act on neuronal membrane proteins, in particular, acetylcholinesterases (AChE) that regulate synaptic transmission through acetylcholine (ACh) hydrolysis - an excitatory neurotransmitter - and beta-secretases (BACE) that primarily cleave amyloid precursor proteins (APP), which are, in turn, relevant in the structural integrity of neurons. The present study provides preliminary evidence on the therapeutic potential of Phlogiellus bundokalbo venom against neurodegenerative diseases. Methods Spider venom was extracted by electrostimulation and fractionated by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and characterized by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Neuroactivity of the whole venom was observed by a neurobehavioral response from Terebrio molitor larvae in vivo and fractions were screened for their inhibitory activities against AChE and BACE in vitro. Results The whole venom from P. bundokalbo demonstrated neuroactivity by inducing excitatory movements from T. molitor for 15 min. Sixteen fractions collected produced diverse mass fragments from MALDI-TOF-MS ranging from 900-4500 Da. Eleven of sixteen fractions demonstrated AChE inhibitory activities with 14.34% (± 2.60e-4) to 62.05% (± 6.40e-5) compared with donepezil which has 86.34% (± 3.90e-5) inhibition (p > 0.05), while none of the fractions were observed to exhibit BACE inhibition. Furthermore, three potent fractions against AChE, F1, F3, and F16 displayed competitive and uncompetitive inhibitions compared to donepezil as the positive control. Conclusion The venom of P. bundokalbo contains compounds that demonstrate neuroactivity and anti-AChE activities in vitro, which could comprise possible therapeutic leads for the development of cholinergic compounds against neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Miguel M Lopez
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines, 1101
| | - Jeremey S Aguilar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008
| | - Jerene Bashia B Fernandez
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008
| | - Angelic Gayle J Lao
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015.,The Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015.,Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines, 1101
| | - Mitzi Rain R Estrella
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008
| | - Mark Kevin P Devanadera
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015.,The Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015
| | - Cydee Marie V Ramones
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines, 1101
| | - Aaron Joseph L Villaraza
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines, 1101
| | - Leonardo A Guevarra
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015
| | - Myla R Santiago-Bautista
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015.,The Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015
| | - Librado A Santiago
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015.,The Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015
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Batista Martins D, Fadel V, Oliveira FD, Gaspar D, Alvares DS, Castanho MARB, Dos Santos Cabrera MP. Protonectin peptides target lipids, act at the interface and selectively kill metastatic breast cancer cells while preserving morphological integrity. J Colloid Interface Sci 2021; 601:517-530. [PMID: 34090029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2021.05.115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Despite the need for innovative compounds as antimicrobial and anticancer agents, natural sources of peptides remain underexplored. Protonectin (PTN), a cationic dodecapeptide of pharmacological interest, presents large hydrophobicity that is associated with the tendency to aggregate and supposedly influences bioactivity. A disaggregating role was assigned to PTN' N-terminal fragment (PTN1-6), which enhances the bioactivity of PTN in a 1:1 mixture (PTN/PTN1-6). Spectroscopic techniques and model membranes (phospholipid bilayers and SDS micelles) revealed that environment-dependent aggregation is reduced for PTN/PTN1-6, but cytotoxicity of PTNs on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer showed the same CC50 values around 16 µM and on MCF-10A epithelial breast cells 6 to 5-fold higher values, revealing a selective interaction. Since PTN1-6 lacks activity on breast cells, its presence should differently affect PTN activity, suggesting that aggregation could modulate activity depending on the membrane characteristics. Indeed, increased partitioning and lytic activity of PTN/PTN1-6 were found in model membranes independently of charge density, but affected by the curvature tendency. PTN and PTN/PTN1-6 do not alter morphology and roughness of cancer cells, indicating a superficial interaction with membranes and consistent with results obtained in NMR experiments. Our results indicate that aggregation of PTNs depends on the membrane characteristics and modulates the activity of the peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danubia Batista Martins
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências Letras e Ciências Exatas (IBILCE), R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Valmir Fadel
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências Letras e Ciências Exatas (IBILCE), R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Filipa D Oliveira
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Diana Gaspar
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Dayane S Alvares
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências Letras e Ciências Exatas (IBILCE), R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Miguel A R B Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marcia Perez Dos Santos Cabrera
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências Letras e Ciências Exatas (IBILCE), R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil; Departamento de Química e Ciências Ambientais, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Instituto de Biociências Letras e Ciências Exatas (IBILCE), R. Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, 15054-000 São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Haktanir I, Masoura M, Mantzouridou FT, Gkatzionis K. Mechanism of antimicrobial activity of honeybee (Apis mellifera) venom on Gram-negative bacteria: Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas spp. AMB Express 2021; 11:54. [PMID: 33835274 PMCID: PMC8035396 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-021-01214-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Honeybee venom (Apitoxin, BV), a secretion substance expelled from the venom gland of bees, has being reported as antimicrobial against various bacterial species; however, the mechanism of action remains uncharacterized. In this study, the antibacterial activity of BV was investigated on hygiene indicator Escherichia coli and the environmental pathogen and spoilage bacterial species, Pseudomonas putida and Pseudomonas fluorescens. An array of methods was combined to elucidate the mode of action of BV. Viability by culture on media was combined with assessing cell injury with flow cytometry analysis. ATP depletion was monitored as an indicator to metabolic activity of cells, by varying BV concentration (75, 225and 500 µg/mL), temperature (25 \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$$^\circ \complement $$\end{document}∘∁), and time of exposure (0 to 24 h). Venom presented moderate inhibitory effect on E. coli by viability assay, caused high membrane permeability and significant ATP loss where the effect was increased by increased concentration. The viability of P. putida was reduced to a greater extent than other tested bacteria at comparable venom concentrations and was dictated by exposure time. On the contrary, P. fluorescens appeared less affected by venom based on viability; however, flow cytometry and ATP analysis highlighted concentration- and time-dependent effect of venom. According to Transmission Electron Microscopy results, the deformation of the cell wall was evident for all species. This implies a common mechanism of action of the BV which is as follows: the cell wall destruction, change of membrane permeability, leakage of cell contents, inactivation of metabolic activity and finally cell death.
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Ebou A, Koua D, Addablah A, Kakou-Ngazoa S, Dutertre S. Combined Proteotranscriptomic-Based Strategy to Discover Novel Antimicrobial Peptides from Cone Snails. Biomedicines 2021; 9:344. [PMID: 33805497 PMCID: PMC8066717 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9040344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite their impressive diversity and already broad therapeutic applications, cone snail venoms have received less attention as a natural source in the investigation of antimicrobial peptides than other venomous animals such as scorpions, spiders, or snakes. Cone snails are among the largest genera (Conus sp.) of marine invertebrates, with more than seven hundred species described to date. These predatory mollusks use their sophisticated venom apparatus to capture prey or defend themselves. In-depth studies of these venoms have unraveled many biologically active peptides with pharmacological properties of interest in the field of pain management, the treatment of epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiac ischemia. Considering sequencing efficiency and affordability, cone snail venom gland transcriptome analyses could allow the discovery of new, promising antimicrobial peptides. We first present here the need for novel compounds like antimicrobial peptides as a viable alternative to conventional antibiotics. Secondly, we review the current knowledge on cone snails as a source of antimicrobial peptides. Then, we present the current state of the art in analytical methods applied to crude or milked venom followed by how antibacterial activity assay can be implemented for fostering cone snail antimicrobial peptides studies. We also propose a new innovative profile Hidden Markov model-based approach to annotate full venom gland transcriptomes and speed up the discovery of potentially active peptides from cone snails.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anicet Ebou
- Bioinformatic Team, Département Agriculture et Ressource Animales, UMRI 28, Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Yamoussoukro BP 1093, Ivory Coast;
| | - Dominique Koua
- Bioinformatic Team, Département Agriculture et Ressource Animales, UMRI 28, Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Yamoussoukro BP 1093, Ivory Coast;
| | - Audrey Addablah
- Plateforme de Biologie Moléculaire, Institut Pasteur de Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan BP 490, Ivory Coast; (A.A.); (S.K.-N.)
| | - Solange Kakou-Ngazoa
- Plateforme de Biologie Moléculaire, Institut Pasteur de Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan BP 490, Ivory Coast; (A.A.); (S.K.-N.)
| | - Sébastien Dutertre
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, UMR 5247, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, ENSCM, 34095 Montpellier, France
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Ali SM, Siddiqui R, Sagathevan KA, Khan NA. Antibacterial activity of selected invertebrate species. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2021; 66:285-291. [PMID: 33704690 DOI: 10.1007/s12223-021-00860-6] [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: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The evolution of multiple-drug resistant bacteria is contributing to the global antimicrobial crisis, hence driving us to search for novel antimicrobial(s). Among animals, invertebrates represent up to 80% of all known species suggesting their wide distribution. Despite their ubiquitous and plentiful nature, they have been largely unexplored as potential source of antibacterials. In this study, we selected a broad range of invertebrates from terrestrial and marine environments and tested their lysates for antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aereus (MRSA) and neuropathogenic Escherichia coli K1. Cockroaches, centipedes, tarantulas, prawns, lobster, and mud crabs showed antibacterial activity with selected lysates exhibiting more than 90% bactericidal effects. The red-headed centipede's hemolymph showed 90% and 50% bacteriostatic activity against MRSA and E. coli K1, respectively. Tarantula's body extracts exhibited antibacterial activity against MRSA and E. coli K1. Gut extracts of tiger prawn exhibited more than 90% bacteriostatic activity against both bacteria. The selected lobster and mud crab extract exhibited up to 90% growth inhibitory activity against MRSA. Overall, these results showed that selected invertebrates are an untapped source of broad-spectrum antibacterial activity and suggest the presence of biologically active molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salwa Mansur Ali
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Ruqaiyayh Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE
| | | | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE. .,Research Institute of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE.
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Kumar R, Ali SA, Singh SK, Bhushan V, Mathur M, Jamwal S, Mohanty AK, Kaushik JK, Kumar S. Antimicrobial Peptides in Farm Animals: An Updated Review on Its Diversity, Function, Modes of Action and Therapeutic Prospects. Vet Sci 2020; 7:vetsci7040206. [PMID: 33352919 PMCID: PMC7766339 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7040206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are the arsenals of the innate host defense system, exhibiting evolutionarily conserved characteristics that are present in practically all forms of life. Recent years have witnessed the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria compounded with a slow discovery rate for new antibiotics that have necessitated scientific efforts to search for alternatives to antibiotics. Research on the identification of AMPs has generated very encouraging evidence that they curb infectious pathologies and are also useful as novel biologics to function as immunotherapeutic agents. Being innate, they exhibit the least cytotoxicity to the host and exerts a wide spectrum of biological activity including low resistance among microbes and increased wound healing actions. Notably, in veterinary science, the constant practice of massive doses of antibiotics with inappropriate withdrawal programs led to a high risk of livestock-associated antimicrobial resistance. Therefore, the world faces tremendous pressure for designing and devising strategies to mitigate the use of antibiotics in animals and keep it safe for posterity. In this review, we illustrate the diversity of farm animal-specific AMPs, and their biochemical foundations, mode of action, and prospective application in clinics. Subsequently, we present the data for their systematic classification under the major and minor groups, antipathogenic action, and allied bioactivities in the host. Finally, we address the limitations of their clinical implementation and envision areas for further advancement.
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Sharma D, Bisht GS. Recent Updates on Antifungal Peptides. Mini Rev Med Chem 2020; 20:260-268. [PMID: 31556857 DOI: 10.2174/1389557519666190926112423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The current trend of increment in the frequency of antifungal resistance has brought research into an era where new antifungal compounds with novel mechanisms of action are required. Natural antimicrobial peptides, which are ubiquitous components of innate immunity, represent their candidature for novel antifungal peptides. Various antifungal peptides have been isolated from different species ranging from small marine organisms to insects and from various other living species. Based on these peptides, various mimetics of antifungal peptides have also been synthesized using non-natural amino acids. Utilization of these antifungal peptides is somehow limited due to their toxic and unstable nature. This review discusses recent updates and future directions of antifungal peptides, for taking them to the shelf from the bench.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173234, India
| | - Gopal Singh Bisht
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan, Himachal Pradesh, 173234, India
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Cilia G, Fratini F, Marchi M, Sagona S, Turchi B, Adamchuk L, Felicioli A, Kačániová M. Antibacterial Activity of Honey Samples from Ukraine. Vet Sci 2020; 7:vetsci7040181. [PMID: 33233581 PMCID: PMC7712053 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7040181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The employment of natural substances such as beehive products with a preventive and therapeutic purpose has been a widespread custom since ancient times. In this investigation, the antibacterial activity of 41 honey samples from different Ukraine regions has been evaluated. For each honey, melissopalynological and physico-chemical analysis were performed in order to determine botanical origin, pH, glucose and fructose contents and free acidity. So, antibacterial activity against Staphylococcusaureus CCM 4223, Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644, Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium CCM 3807 and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 was assessed through the determination of MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) and MBC (Minimum Bactericidal Concentration) values by the microdilutions method. The results show that the most susceptible bacterial strain was L. monocytogenes. Its growth was inhibited at a honey concentration ranging from 0.094 to 0.188 g/mL. The most resistant bacterial strain was S. aureus. As concerns MBC values, L. monocytogenes was the most susceptible bacteria, while S. aureus was the most resistant. Helianthus spp. honeys was the most effective against all tested bacterial strains, followed by Robinia spp. and multifloral honeys. Promising results for MIC tests have been found for Brassica spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Cilia
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 20159 Pisa, Italy; (G.C.); (M.M.); (B.T.); (A.F.)
| | - Filippo Fratini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 20159 Pisa, Italy; (G.C.); (M.M.); (B.T.); (A.F.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Matilde Marchi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 20159 Pisa, Italy; (G.C.); (M.M.); (B.T.); (A.F.)
| | - Simona Sagona
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Barbara Turchi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 20159 Pisa, Italy; (G.C.); (M.M.); (B.T.); (A.F.)
| | - Leonora Adamchuk
- Department of Horse-Breeding and Beekeeping, National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Henerala Rodimtseva Str.19, 03041 Kyiv, Ukraine;
| | - Antonio Felicioli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 20159 Pisa, Italy; (G.C.); (M.M.); (B.T.); (A.F.)
| | - Miroslava Kačániová
- Department of Fruit Sciences, Viticulture and Enology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia;
- Department of Bioenergetics, Food Analysis and Microbiology, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, University of Rzeszow, Cwiklinskiej 1, 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland
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Dodou Lima HV, Sidrim de Paula Cavalcante C, Rádis-Baptista G. Antimicrobial activity of synthetic Dq-3162, a 28-residue ponericin G-like dinoponeratoxin from the giant ant Dinoponera quadriceps venom, against carbapenem-resistant bacteria. Toxicon 2020; 187:19-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Herzig V, Cristofori-Armstrong B, Israel MR, Nixon SA, Vetter I, King GF. Animal toxins - Nature's evolutionary-refined toolkit for basic research and drug discovery. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 181:114096. [PMID: 32535105 PMCID: PMC7290223 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Venomous animals have evolved toxins that interfere with specific components of their victim's core physiological systems, thereby causing biological dysfunction that aids in prey capture, defense against predators, or other roles such as intraspecific competition. Many animal lineages evolved venom systems independently, highlighting the success of this strategy. Over the course of evolution, toxins with exceptional specificity and high potency for their intended molecular targets have prevailed, making venoms an invaluable and almost inexhaustible source of bioactive molecules, some of which have found use as pharmacological tools, human therapeutics, and bioinsecticides. Current biomedically-focused research on venoms is directed towards their use in delineating the physiological role of toxin molecular targets such as ion channels and receptors, studying or treating human diseases, targeting vectors of human diseases, and treating microbial and parasitic infections. We provide examples of each of these areas of venom research, highlighting the potential that venom molecules hold for basic research and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volker Herzig
- School of Science & Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia; Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.
| | | | - Mathilde R Israel
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Samantha A Nixon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, Australia.
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Arg-substituted VmCT1 analogs reveals promising candidate for the development of new antichagasic agent. Parasitology 2020; 147:1810-1818. [PMID: 33004083 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001882] [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] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
VmCT1 is an antimicrobial peptide (AMP) isolated from the venom of the scorpion Vaejovis mexicanus with antimicrobial, anticancer and antimalarial activities, which the rational design with Arg-substitution has yielded AMPs with higher antimicrobial activity than VmCT1. Chagas is a neglected tropical disease, becoming the development of new antichagasic agents is urgent. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the antichagasic effect of VmCT1 and three Arg-substituted analogues, as well their action mechanism. Peptides were tested against the epimastigote, trypomastigote, amastigote forms of Trypanossoma cruzi Y strain and against LLC-MK2 mammalian cells. The mechanism of action of these peptides was evaluated by means of flow cytometry and scanning electron microscopy. VmCT1 presented activity against all three forms of T. cruzi, with EC50 against trypomastigote forms of 1.37 μmol L-1 and selectivity index (SI) of 58. [Arg]3-VmCT1, [Arg]7-VmCT1 and [Arg]11-VmCT1 also showed trypanocidal effect, but [Arg]11-VmCT1 had the best effect, being able to decrease the EC50 against trypomastigote forms to 0.8 μmol L-1 and increase SI to 175. Necrosis was cell death pathway of VmCT1, as well [Arg]7-VmCT1 and [Arg]11-VmCT1, such as observed by membrane damage in flow cytometry analyses and scanning-electron-microscopy. In conclusion, [Arg]11-VmCT1 revealed promising as a candidate for new antichagasic therapeutics.
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Antifungal In Vitro Activity of Pilosulin- and Ponericin-Like Peptides from the Giant Ant Dinoponera quadriceps and Synergistic Effects with Antimycotic Drugs. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9060354. [PMID: 32585881 PMCID: PMC7344683 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9060354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Venoms from ants comprise a rich source of bioactive peptides, including antimicrobial peptides. From the proteome and peptidome of the giant ant Dinoponera quadriceps venom, members of five known classes of antimicrobial peptides were disclosed (e.g., dermaseptin-, defensin-, ICK-, pilosulin- and ponericin-like types). Based on comparative analysis, these family members have structural determinants that indicate they could display antimicrobial activities. In previous works, pilosulin- and ponericin-like peptides were demonstrated to be active against bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Herein, the antifungal activity of ponericin- and pilosulin-like peptides were assessed, aiming at the expansion of the knowledge about AMPs in predatory ants and the development of new microbicide strategies to deal with difficult-to-treat fungal infections. Synthetic pilosulin- (Dq-2562, Dq-1503, and Dq-1319) and ponericin-like (Dq-3162) peptides were evaluated for their fungicide and fungistatic activities against different species of Candida, including a drug-resistant clinical strain. The MICs and MLCs were determined for all peptides individually and in combination with general antifungal drugs by the microdilution method. The time-kill kinetic curves were set up by means of a luminescent reagent, of which the light signal is proportional to the number of viable cells. The candicidal synergism observed by the combination of subinhibitory concentrations of peptides and general antimycotic drugs were quantified by the checkerboard test and fluorescent dye permeation assay. The influence of ergosterol on the antifungal activity was verified by supplementation of culture medium. The pilosulin- (Dq-2562 and Dq-1503) and ponericin-like (Dq-3162) were the most active peptides, displaying a broad spectrum of antifungal activity in vitro, with MICs in the range of 0.625 to 10 µM. The combination of peptides and conventional antimycotic drugs displayed a synergistic reduction in the MIC values of individual peptides and drugs, while soluble ergosterol in the culture medium increased the MICs. The fungicide and fungistatic activity of the individual peptides and peptides in combination with antimycotics were time-dependent with a rapid onset of action and long-lasting effect, which involved membrane disruption as an underlying mechanism of their action. Altogether, pilosulin- and ponericin-like peptides from the giant ant D. quadriceps venom display a broad-spectrum of candicidal activity, what allows their inclusion in the row of the antifungal peptides and gives support for further studies on the development of strategies to fight candidiasis.
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Cushnie TPT, Cushnie B, Echeverría J, Fowsantear W, Thammawat S, Dodgson JLA, Law S, Clow SM. Bioprospecting for Antibacterial Drugs: a Multidisciplinary Perspective on Natural Product Source Material, Bioassay Selection and Avoidable Pitfalls. Pharm Res 2020; 37:125. [PMID: 32529587 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-020-02849-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Bioprospecting is the exploration, extraction and screening of biological material and sometimes indigenous knowledge to discover and develop new drugs and other products. Most antibiotics in current clinical use (eg. β-lactams, aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, macrolides) were discovered using this approach, and there are strong arguments to reprioritize bioprospecting over other strategies in the search for new antibacterial drugs. Academic institutions should be well positioned to lead the early stages of these efforts given their many thousands of locations globally and because they are not constrained by the same commercial considerations as industry. University groups can lack the full complement of knowledge and skills needed though (eg. how to tailor screening strategy to biological source material). In this article, we review three key aspects of the bioprospecting literature (source material and in vitro antibacterial and toxicity testing) and present an integrated multidisciplinary perspective on (a) source material selection, (b) legal, taxonomic and other issues related to source material, (c) cultivation methods, (d) bioassay selection, (e) technical standards available, (f) extract/compound dissolution, (g) use of minimum inhibitory concentration and selectivity index values to identify progressible extracts and compounds, and (h) avoidable pitfalls. The review closes with recommendations for future study design and information on subsequent steps in the bioprospecting process.
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Affiliation(s)
- T P Tim Cushnie
- Faculty of Medicine, Mahasarakham University, 269 Nakornsawan Road, Mahasarakham, 44000, Thailand.
| | - Benjamart Cushnie
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahasarakham University, Kantarawichai, Thailand
| | - Javier Echeverría
- Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Winita Fowsantear
- Faculty of Medicine, Mahasarakham University, 269 Nakornsawan Road, Mahasarakham, 44000, Thailand
| | - Sutthiwan Thammawat
- Faculty of Medicine, Mahasarakham University, 269 Nakornsawan Road, Mahasarakham, 44000, Thailand
| | | | - Samantha Law
- National Collection of Industrial, Food and Marine Bacteria (NCIMB) Ltd, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Simon M Clow
- PMI BioPharma Solutions LLC, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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Cilia G, Fratini F, Tafi E, Turchi B, Mancini S, Sagona S, Nanetti A, Cerri D, Felicioli A. Microbial Profile of the Ventriculum of Honey Bee ( Apis mellifera ligustica Spinola, 1806) Fed with Veterinary Drugs, Dietary Supplements and Non-Protein Amino Acids. Vet Sci 2020; 7:E76. [PMID: 32517254 PMCID: PMC7357006 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7020076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of veterinary drugs, dietary supplements and non-protein amino acids on the European honey bee (Apis mellifera ligustica Spinola, 1806) ventriculum microbial profile were investigated. Total viable aerobic bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, staphylococci, Escherichia coli, lactic acid bacteria, Pseudomonas spp., aerobic bacterial endospores and Enterococcus spp. were determined using a culture-based method. Two veterinary drugs (Varromed® and Api-Bioxal®), two commercial dietary supplements (ApiHerb® and ApiGo®) and two non-protein amino acids (GABA and beta-alanine) were administered for one week to honey bee foragers reared in laboratory cages. After one week, E. coli and Staphylococcus spp. were significantly affected by the veterinary drugs (p < 0.001). Furthermore, dietary supplements and non-protein amino acids induced significant changes in Staphylococcus spp., E. coli and Pseudomonas spp. (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the results of this investigation showed that the administration of the veterinary drugs, dietary supplements and non-protein amino acids tested, affected the ventriculum microbiological profile of Apis mellifera ligustica.GABA; beta-alanine; oxalic acid; diet effect; microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Cilia
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.F.); (E.T.); (B.T.); (S.M.); (S.S.); (D.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Filippo Fratini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.F.); (E.T.); (B.T.); (S.M.); (S.S.); (D.C.); (A.F.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Tafi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.F.); (E.T.); (B.T.); (S.M.); (S.S.); (D.C.); (A.F.)
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, via dell’Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Barbara Turchi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.F.); (E.T.); (B.T.); (S.M.); (S.S.); (D.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Simone Mancini
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.F.); (E.T.); (B.T.); (S.M.); (S.S.); (D.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Simona Sagona
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.F.); (E.T.); (B.T.); (S.M.); (S.S.); (D.C.); (A.F.)
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Antonio Nanetti
- CREA Research Centre for Agriculture and Environment, Via di Saliceto 80, 40128 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Domenico Cerri
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.F.); (E.T.); (B.T.); (S.M.); (S.S.); (D.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Antonio Felicioli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, Viale delle Piagge 2, 56124 Pisa, Italy; (F.F.); (E.T.); (B.T.); (S.M.); (S.S.); (D.C.); (A.F.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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Freire DO, da Cunha NB, Leite ML, Kostopoulos AGC, da Silva SNB, Souza ACB, Nolasco DO, Franco OL, Mortari MR, Dias SC. Wasp venom peptide, synoeca‐MP, fromSynoeca surinamashows antimicrobial activity against human and animal pathogenic microorganisms. Pept Sci (Hoboken) 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/pep2.24141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel O. Freire
- Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Department of Physiological SciencesInstitute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia Brasilia Brazil
| | - Nicolau B. da Cunha
- Centro de Análise Proteômicas e Bioquímicas de BrasíliaUniversidade Católica de Brasília Brasília Brazil
| | - Michel L. Leite
- Centro de Análise Proteômicas e Bioquímicas de BrasíliaUniversidade Católica de Brasília Brasília Brazil
| | - Alessandra G. C. Kostopoulos
- Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Department of Physiological SciencesInstitute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia Brasilia Brazil
| | - Sheila N. B. da Silva
- Centro de Análise Proteômicas e Bioquímicas de BrasíliaUniversidade Católica de Brasília Brasília Brazil
| | - Adolfo C. B. Souza
- Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Department of Physiological SciencesInstitute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia Brasilia Brazil
| | - Diego O. Nolasco
- Centro de Análise Proteômicas e Bioquímicas de BrasíliaUniversidade Católica de Brasília Brasília Brazil
| | - Octávio L. Franco
- Centro de Análise Proteômicas e Bioquímicas de BrasíliaUniversidade Católica de Brasília Brasília Brazil
- S‐Inova Biotech, Pós‐graduação em BiotecnologiaUniversidade Católica Dom Bosco Campo Grande Brazil
| | - Márcia R. Mortari
- Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Department of Physiological SciencesInstitute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasilia Brasilia Brazil
- Universidade de Brasília, Pós‐Graduação em Biologia Animal, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro Brasília Brazil
| | - Simoni C. Dias
- Centro de Análise Proteômicas e Bioquímicas de BrasíliaUniversidade Católica de Brasília Brasília Brazil
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23
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Demain AL, Gómez-Ortiz B, Ruiz-Villafán B, Rodríguez-Sanoja R, Sánchez S. Recent findings of molecules with anti-infective activity: screening of non-conventional sources. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2019; 48:40-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Sabiá Júnior EF, Menezes LFS, de Araújo IFS, Schwartz EF. Natural Occurrence in Venomous Arthropods of Antimicrobial Peptides Active against Protozoan Parasites. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E563. [PMID: 31557900 PMCID: PMC6832604 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11100563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Arthropoda is a phylum of invertebrates that has undergone remarkable evolutionary radiation, with a wide range of venomous animals. Arthropod venom is a complex mixture of molecules and a source of new compounds, including antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Most AMPs affect membrane integrity and produce lethal pores in microorganisms, including protozoan pathogens, whereas others act on internal targets or by modulation of the host immune system. Protozoan parasites cause some serious life-threatening diseases among millions of people worldwide, mostly affecting the poorest in developing tropical regions. Humans can be infected with protozoan parasites belonging to the genera Trypanosoma, Leishmania, Plasmodium, and Toxoplasma, responsible for Chagas disease, human African trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, malaria, and toxoplasmosis. There is not yet any cure or vaccine for these illnesses, and the current antiprotozoal chemotherapeutic compounds are inefficient and toxic and have been in clinical use for decades, which increases drug resistance. In this review, we will present an overview of AMPs, the diverse modes of action of AMPs on protozoan targets, and the prospection of novel AMPs isolated from venomous arthropods with the potential to become novel clinical agents to treat protozoan-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Ferreira Sabiá Júnior
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil.
| | - Luis Felipe Santos Menezes
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil.
| | - Israel Flor Silva de Araújo
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil.
| | - Elisabeth Ferroni Schwartz
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil.
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25
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Chemical and Biological Characteristics of Antimicrobial α-Helical Peptides Found in Solitary Wasp Venoms and Their Interactions with Model Membranes. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11100559. [PMID: 31554187 PMCID: PMC6832458 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11100559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Solitary wasps use their stinging venoms for paralyzing insect or spider prey and feeding them to their larvae. We have surveyed bioactive substances in solitary wasp venoms, and found antimicrobial peptides together with some other bioactive peptides. Eumenine mastoparan-AF (EMP-AF) was the first to be found from the venom of the solitary eumenine wasp Anterhynchium flavomarginatum micado, showing antimicrobial, histamine-releasing, and hemolytic activities, and adopting an α-helical secondary structure under appropriate conditions. Further survey of solitary wasp venom components revealed that eumenine wasp venoms contained such antimicrobial α-helical peptides as the major peptide component. This review summarizes the results obtained from the studies of these peptides in solitary wasp venoms and some analogs from the viewpoint of (1) chemical and biological characterization; (2) physicochemical properties and secondary structure; and (3) channel-like pore-forming properties.
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26
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The effect of lysine substitutions in the biological activities of the scorpion venom peptide VmCT1. Eur J Pharm Sci 2019; 136:104952. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2019.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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27
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Felicioli A, Cilia G, Mancini S, Turchi B, Galaverna G, Cirlini M, Cerri D, Fratini F. In vitro antibacterial activity and volatile characterisation of organic Apis mellifera ligustica (Spinola, 1906) beeswax ethanol extracts. FOOD BIOSCI 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2019.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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28
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Zerouti K, Khemili D, Laraba-Djebari F, Hammoudi-Triki D. Nontoxic fraction of scorpion venom reduces bacterial growth and inflammatory response in a mouse model of infection. TOXIN REV 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/15569543.2019.1614064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Khedidja Zerouti
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, USTHB, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Dalila Khemili
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, USTHB, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Fatima Laraba-Djebari
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, USTHB, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Djelila Hammoudi-Triki
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Biology, USTHB, Algiers, Algeria
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29
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First Characterization of The Venom from Apis mellifera syriaca, A Honeybee from The Middle East Region. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11040191. [PMID: 30935025 PMCID: PMC6521255 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11040191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Bee venom is a mixture of several components with proven therapeutic benefits, among which are anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and various cardiovascular conditions. In this work, we analyzed for the first time the proteomic content and biological properties of the crude venom from Apis mellifera syriaca, a honeybee from the Middle East region. Using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, we evidence the venom contains phospholipase A2, hyaluronidase, mast cell-degranulating peptide, adolapin, apamin, and melittin. The latter was purified by solid phase extraction method (SPE) and tested in parallel with crude venom for biological activities. Precisely, crude venom-but not melittin-exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains. Alongside, hemolytic activity was observed in human blood subjected to the venom at high doses. A. mellifera syriaca venom displayed antioxidant activities, and not surprisingly, PLA2 catalytic activity. Eventually, the venom proved to exert antiproliferative effects against MCF-7 and 3T3 cancer cells lines. This first report of a new bee venom opens new avenues for therapeutic uses of bee venoms.
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30
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Krämer J, Pohl H, Predel R. Venom collection and analysis in the pseudoscorpion Chelifer cancroides (Pseudoscorpiones: Cheliferidae). Toxicon 2019; 162:15-23. [PMID: 30796931 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2019.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 02/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Pseudoscorpions are very small arthropods with almost worldwide distribution. They possess a unique venom delivery system in the chelal hands of their pedipalps that has evolved independently from that of scorpions and spiders. Studies on the venom composition of pseudoscorpions are very rare. Recently, the potential venom composition of the pseudoscorpion Synsphyronus apimelus Harvey, 1987 (Pseudoscorpiones: Garypidae) has been studied by transcriptome analysis. However, a proteome analysis of venom to identify the genuine venom compounds of pseudoscorpions has not yet been performed. In our study, we have developed a non-invasive approach for extracting minute amounts of venom, which for the first time allowed collecting pure venom samples of pseudoscorpions with minimal contaminations and high reproducibility. These experiments first required a morphological investigation of the venom delivery system with a focus on the role of the lamina defensor in the release of venom. Likely, the venom delivery system of pseudoscorpions has a mechanism that prevents the release of venom if the prey is not successfully penetrated by a venom tooth. Electrical stimulation of a gland-containing chelal hand in combination with a mechanical stimulation of the lamina defensor at the base of the venom tooth resulted in an average of 5 nl of collected venom. The utility of the method was then validated by repeated venom extractions and subsequent analysis of the venom composition using MALDI-TOF mass fingerprinting. Subsequent proteomics analysis in combination with transcriptome analyses of chelal hand tissue has identified the first genuine venom compounds of pseudoscorpions with putative antimicrobial peptides. For our experiments, we used the house pseudoscorpion Chelifer cancroides (Linnaeus, 1758) (Pseudoscorpiones: Cheliferidae).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Krämer
- Institute for Zoology, University of Cologne, D-50674, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Hans Pohl
- Institut für Zoologie und Evolutionsforschung, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, D-07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Reinhard Predel
- Institute for Zoology, University of Cologne, D-50674, Cologne, Germany.
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31
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Animal protein toxins: origins and therapeutic applications. BIOPHYSICS REPORTS 2018; 4:233-242. [PMID: 30533488 PMCID: PMC6245134 DOI: 10.1007/s41048-018-0067-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Venomous animals on the earth have been found to be valuable resources for the development of therapeutics. Enzymatic and non-enzymatic proteins and peptides are the major components of animal venoms, many of which can target various ion channels, receptors, and membrane transporters. Compared to traditional small molecule drugs, natural proteins and peptides exhibit higher specificity and potency to their targets. In this review, we summarize the varieties and characteristics of toxins from a few representative venomous animals, and describe the components and applications of animal toxins as potential drug candidates in the treatment of human diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, neuropathic pain, as well as autoimmune diseases. In the meantime, there are many obstacles to translate new toxin discovery to their clinical applications. The challenges, strategies, and perspectives in the development of the protein toxin-based drugs are discussed as well.
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32
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Anti-pathogens constituents and novel ergosterol derivatives with the broad-spectrum germicidal substances from earthworm, Pheretima aspergillum. Tetrahedron 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tet.2018.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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33
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Cherniack EP, Govorushko S. To bee or not to bee: The potential efficacy and safety of bee venom acupuncture in humans. Toxicon 2018; 154:74-78. [PMID: 30268393 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Bee venom acupuncture is a form of acupuncture in which bee venom is applied to the tips of acupuncture needles, stingers are extracted from bees, or bees are held with an instrument exposing the stinger, and applied to acupoints on the skin. Bee venom is a complex substance consisting of multiple anti-inflammatory compounds such as melittin, adolapin, apamin. Other substances such as phospholipase A2 can be anti-inflammatory in low concentrations and pro-inflammatory in others. However, bee venom also contains proinflammatory substances, melittin, mast cell degranulation peptide 401, and histamine. Nevertheless, in small studies, bee venom acupuncture has been used in man to successfully treat a number of musculoskeletal diseases such as lumbar disc disease, osteoarthritis of the knee, rheumatoid arthritis, adhesive capsulitis, and lateral epicondylitis. Bee venom acupuncture can also alleviate neurological conditions, including peripheral neuropathies, stroke and Parkinson's Disease. The treatment has even been piloted in one series to alleviate depression. An important concern is the safety of bee venom. Bee venom can cause anaphylaxis, and several deaths have been reported in patients who successfully received the therapy prior to the adverse event. While the incidence of adverse events is unknown, the number of published reports of toxicity is small. Refining bee venom to remove harmful substances may potentially limit its toxicity. New uses for bee venom acupuncture may also be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Paul Cherniack
- Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami VA Medical Center, Miami, USA.
| | - Sergey Govorushko
- Pacific Geographic Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vladivostok, Russia; Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russia
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34
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Ogawara H. Comparison of Strategies to Overcome Drug Resistance: Learning from Various Kingdoms. Molecules 2018; 23:E1476. [PMID: 29912169 PMCID: PMC6100412 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23061476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance, especially antibiotic resistance, is a growing threat to human health. To overcome this problem, it is significant to know precisely the mechanisms of drug resistance and/or self-resistance in various kingdoms, from bacteria through plants to animals, once more. This review compares the molecular mechanisms of the resistance against phycotoxins, toxins from marine and terrestrial animals, plants and fungi, and antibiotics. The results reveal that each kingdom possesses the characteristic features. The main mechanisms in each kingdom are transporters/efflux pumps in phycotoxins, mutation and modification of targets and sequestration in marine and terrestrial animal toxins, ABC transporters and sequestration in plant toxins, transporters in fungal toxins, and various or mixed mechanisms in antibiotics. Antibiotic producers in particular make tremendous efforts for avoiding suicide, and are more flexible and adaptable to the changes of environments. With these features in mind, potential alternative strategies to overcome these resistance problems are discussed. This paper will provide clues for solving the issues of drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Ogawara
- HO Bio Institute, Yushima-2, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0034, Japan.
- Department of Biochemistry, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Noshio-2, Kiyose, Tokyo 204-8588, Japan.
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35
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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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36
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Orsolini L, Ciccarese M, Papanti D, De Berardis D, Guirguis A, Corkery JM, Schifano F. Psychedelic Fauna for Psychonaut Hunters: A Mini-Review. Front Psychiatry 2018; 9:153. [PMID: 29910745 PMCID: PMC5992390 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently different classes of psychoactive substances are easily available for abuse, including several hundred novel psychoactive substances (NPS). Some of these drugs occur naturally in plants and animals or are chemically modified from plant or animal compounds and have been abused by humans over millennia. Recently, the occurrence of a new "drug culture" (e.g., psychonauts) who consume a great variety of NPS with hallucinogenic/psychedelic properties, facilitated the development of a new "psychedelic trend" toward the consumption of substances contained in some species of animals ("psychedelic fauna"). The present review aims at providing an overview of the most commonly abused "psychedelic animals," by combining a dual search strategy coming from online psychonauts' experiences and English literature searches on the PubMed/Medline Google Scholar databases. A multilingual qualitative assessment on a range of websites and online resources was performed in order to identify a list of animals who possess some psychoactive properties and could be abused by humans for recreational purposes. Several species are implicated (i.e., ants, amphibians, fish). Routes of administration depend on the animal, substance included, metabolism, toxicity and individual, social and cultural variability. Online purchase and access are easy through tourism-related search strategies ("frog trip," "help of charmer snake," "religious trip").
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Orsolini
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom.,Neomesia Mental Health, Villa Jolanda Hospital, Jesi, Italy.,Polyedra, Teramo, Italy
| | - Michela Ciccarese
- Servizio per Dipendenze Patologiche, Department of Mental Health and Pathological Dependences, AUSL, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Duccio Papanti
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Domenico De Berardis
- Polyedra, Teramo, Italy.,NHS, Department of Mental Health, Psychiatric Service of Diagnosis and Treatment, Hospital G. Mazzini, Teramo, Italy.,Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Science, University G. D'Annunzio, Chieti, Italy
| | - Amira Guirguis
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - John M Corkery
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - Fabrizio Schifano
- Psychopharmacology, Drug Misuse and Novel Psychoactive Substances Research Unit, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, United Kingdom
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37
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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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