Acetylcholinesterases from Elapidae snake venoms: biochemical, immunological and enzymatic characterization

Composition, pharmacology, and pathophysiology of the venom of monocled cobra (Naja kaouthia)- a medically crucial venomous snake of southeast Asia: An updated review

The Monocled Cobra (Naja kaouthia), a category one medically significant snake from the Elapidae family, inflicts severe envenomation in South and Southeast Asian countries. N. kaouthia is distributed throughout the eastern and northeastern parts of India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and southwestern China. Envenomation by N. kaouthia is a medical emergency, and the primary clinical symptoms are neurotoxicity and localized tissue destruction. Unfortunately, data on the actual magnitude of N. kaouthia envenomation is scarce due to poor record keeping, lack of diagnostic kits, and region-wise well-coordinated epidemiological surveys. The present review highlights the diversity in the composition of N. Kaouthia venom (NKV) across various geographical regions, as revealed through biochemical and proteomic analyses. The qualitative and quantitative differences in the toxin isoforms result in differences in lethality and pathophysiological manifestation that may limit the effectiveness of antivenom therapy. Studies on commercial polyvalent antivenom (PAV) effectiveness against distinct NKV samples have revealed varying toxicity and enzymatic activity neutralization. Additionally, the identification of snake venom's poorly immunogenic toxins by mass spectrometry, quantification of venom-specific antibodies, and implications for antivenom therapy against snakebites are highlighted. Future directions involve clinical studies on NK envenomation where the snake is frequently encountered and the correlation of this data with NKV composition in that region. For more efficient and superior hospital management of NK envenomation, research should enhance the current immunization procedure to boost the development of antibodies against less immunogenic venom components of this snake.

Biochemical and biological characterization of the venoms of Naja kaouthia and Naja mandalayensis from Myanmar and neutralization effects of BPI cobra antivenom

Snakebite is a neglected public health issue, with many scientific and medical issues to be solved. Cobras are among the most common venomous snakes in Myanmar and are responsible for a considerable number of severe snakebite envenoming. There are three species of cobra (Naja kaouthia, Naja mandalayensis and Ophiophagus hannah) in Myanmar. The study aims to characterize the N. kaouthia and N. mandalayensis venoms and to investigate the efficacy of anti-cobra antivenom (BPI) against the two venoms. Protein components and fibrinogenolytic activity were determined by SDS-PAGE. Enzymatic activities for PLA2, protease and acetylcholinesterase were determined by spectrophotometric method. Anticoagulant activity was determined by recalcification time of citrated human plasma. Myotoxicity, necrotizing activity, median lethal dose (LD50) and median effective dose (ED50) were determined by WHO recommended methods. The SDS-PAGE displayed the proteins and enzymes containing in two venoms were different. N. kaouthia venom exhibited more in PLA2, acetylcholinesterase, anticoagulant, fibrinogenolytic and necrotizing activities than N. mandalayensis venom. N. mandalayensis venom had more protease activity and myotoxicity than N. kaouthia venom. The median lethal dose (LD50) of N. kaouthia and N. mandalayensis venom was 4.33 μg/mouse and 5.04 μg/mouse respectively. Both venoms induced fibrinogen Aα chain degradation in 30 min (N. kaouthia) and in 6 h (N. mandalayensis). The same median effective dose (ED50) (19.56 μg/mouse) showed that anti-NK antivenom can neutralize against lethal effect of N. mandalayensis venom. It can also neutralize the protease activity, anticoagulant activity and fibrinogenolytic activity of both venoms. Immunodiffusion and immunoblotting studies showed that the antivenom recognized its homologous venom (N. kaouthia) and cross-reacted against the heterologous venom (N. mandalayensis). The anti-NK antivenom is suitable to use for N. mandalayensis bite if monospecific antivenom is not available.

The remarkably enzyme-rich venom of the Big Bend Scorpion (Diplocentrus whitei)

Scorpion venoms have long been studied for their peptide discovery potential, with modern high-throughput venom-characterization techniques paving the way for the discovery of thousands of novel putative toxins. Research into these toxins has provided insight into the pathology and treatment of human diseases, even resulting in the development of one compound with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. Although most of this research has focused on the toxins of scorpion species considered medically significant to humans, the venom of harmless scorpion species possess toxins that are homologous to those from medically significant species, indicating that harmless scorpion venoms may also serve as valuable sources of novel peptide variants. Furthermore, as harmless scorpions represent a vast majority of scorpion species diversity, and therefore venom toxin diversity, venoms from these species likely contain entirely new toxin classes. We sequenced the venom-gland transcriptome and venom proteome of two male Big Bend scorpions (Diplocentrus whitei), providing the first high-throughput venom characterization for a member of this genus. We identified a total of 82 toxins in the venom of D. whitei, 25 of which were identified in both the transcriptome and proteome, and 57 of which were only identified in the transcriptome. Furthermore, we identified a unique, enzyme-rich venom dominated by serine proteases and the first arylsulfatase B toxins identified in scorpions.

On characterizing the Red-headed Krait (Bungarus flaviceps) venom: Decomplexation proteomics, immunoreactivity and toxicity cross-neutralization by hetero-specific antivenoms

The Red-headed Krait (Bungarus flaviceps) is a medically important venomous snake species in Southeast Asia, while there is no specific antivenom available for its envenoming. This study investigated the venom composition through a decomplexation proteomic approach, and examined the immunoreactivity as well as cross-neutralization efficacy of two hetero-specific krait antivenoms, Bungarus candidus Monovalent Antivenom (BcMAV) and Bungarus fasciatus Monovalent Antivenom (BfMAV), against the venom of B. flaviceps from Peninsular Malaysia. A total of 43 non-redundant proteoforms belonging to 10 toxin families were identified in the venom proteome, which is dominated by phospholipases A₂ including beta-bungarotoxin lethal subunit (56.20 % of total venom proteins), Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors (19.40 %), metalloproteinases (12.85 %) and three-finger toxins (7.73 %). The proteome varied in quantitative aspect from the earlier reported Indonesian (Sumatran) sample, suggesting geographical venom variation. BcMAV and BfMAV were immunoreactive toward the B. flaviceps venom, with BcMAV being more efficacious in immunological binding. Both antivenoms cross-neutralized the venom lethality with varying efficacy, where BcMAV was more potent than BfMAV by ~13 times (normalized potency: 38.04 mg/g vs. 2.73 mg/g, defined as the venom amount completely neutralized by one-gram antivenom protein), supporting the potential utility of BcMAV for para-specific neutralization against B. flaviceps venom.

The Asian wasp Vespa velutina nigrithorax: Entomological and allergological characteristics

The yellow-legged or Asian wasp (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) has spread rapidly across Europe since its first introduction in France, in 2004. Originally from South-East Asia, it is considered an invasive species outside its native region. Apart from the ecological and economic implications of its presence, it may cause health problems to humans due to the toxic and allergenic components of its venom. Vespa velutina nigrithorax has become the most prevalent cause of anaphylaxis due to Hymenoptera venom in some regions of Spain. Although sIgE against both antigen 5 (Vesp v 5) and A1-phospholipase (Vesp v 1) has been detected in these patients, only Vesp v 5 may be considered a dominant allergen. Interestingly, Vesp v 1 appears to be a glycosylated allergen different from A1-phospholipases from other species. Inhibition studies suggest that Vespula spp venom could behave as primary sensitizer. Besides, changes in sIgE and sIgG4 during Vespula venom immunotherapy in patients with anaphylaxis due to V. velutina support the use of Vespula venom extracts to treat these patients. The purpose of this review is to explore the biological behaviour of V. velutina and to summarize the current knowledge of the allergic reactions provoked by this wasp.

Kinetic and toxicological effects of synthesized palladium(II) complex on snake venom (Bungarus sindanus) acetylcholinesterase

BACKGROUND

The venom of the krait (Bungarus sindanus), an Elapidae snake, is highly toxic to humans and contains a great amount of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). The enzyme AChE provokes the hydrolysis of substrate acetylcholine (ACh) in the nervous system and terminates nerve impulse. Different inhibitors inactivate AChE and lead to ACh accumulation and disrupted neurotransmission.

METHODS

The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of palladium(II) complex as antivenom against krait venom AChE using kinetics methods.

RESULTS

Statistical analysis showed that krait venom AChE inhibition decreases with the increase of Pd(II) complex (0.025-0.05 µM) and exerted 61% inhibition against the AChE at a fixed concentration (0.5 mM) of ACh. Kinetic analysis using the Lineweaver Burk plot showed that Pd(II) caused a competitive inhibition. The compound Pd(II) complex binds at the active site of the enzyme. It was observed that K m (Michaelis-Menten constant of AChE-ACh into AChE and product) increased from 0.108 to 0.310 mM (45.74 to 318.35%) and V max remained constant with an increase of Pd(II) complex concentrations. In AChE K Iapp was found to increase from 0.0912 to 0.025 µM (29.82-72.58%) and did not affect the V maxapp with an increase of ACh from (0.05-1 mM). K i (inhibitory constant) was estimated to be 0.029 µM for snake venom; while the K m was estimated to be 0.4 mM. The calculated IC50 for Pd(II) complex was found to be 0.043 µM at constant ACh concentration (0.5 mM).

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that the Pd(II) complex can be deliberated as an inhibitor of AChE.

Anti-snake venom and methanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata: a multipronged strategy to neutralize Naja naja venom acetylcholinesterase and hyaluronidase

The study investigates the ability of methanolic extract of Andrographis paniculata (MAP) to supplement polyvalent anti-snake venom (ASV) in inhibiting neurotoxic enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and ‘spreading factor’ hyaluronidase from Naja naja (N.N) venom. AChE and hyaluronidase activity were measured in 100 or 200 µg of crude venom, respectively, and designated as ‘control’. In Test Group I, enzyme assays were performed immediately after the addition of ASV/MAP/ASV + MAP to the venom. Inhibition of AChE by ASV (100–367 µg) was 12–17%, and of hyaluronidase (22–660 µg) was 33–41%. Under the same conditions, MAP (100–400 µg) inhibited AChE and hyaluronidase to the extent of 17–33% and 17–52%, respectively. When ASV (220 µg) and MAP (100–200 µg) were added together, AChE and hyaluronidase were inhibited to a greater extent from 39–63 to 36–44%, than when either of them was used alone. In Test Group 2, the venom was incubated with ASV/MAP/ASV + MAP for 10–30 min at 37 °C prior to the assay which enhanced AChE inhibition by 6%, 82% and 18% respectively, when compared to Test Group I. Though there was no change in inhibition of hyaluronidase in the presence of ASV, MAP could further increase the extent of inhibition by 27% and ASV + MAP upto 4%. In Test Group III, venom and substrate were incubated for 90 min and hyaluronidase activity was measured after the addition of inhibitors. Here, ASV + MAP caused increased inhibition by 69% compared to ASV alone. The study confirms the ability of phytochemicals in MAP to contribute to a multipronged strategy by supplementing, thereby augmenting the efficacy of ASV.

Transcriptome profiling of venom gland from wasp species: de novo assembly, functional annotation, and discovery of molecular markers

Background

Vespa velutina, one of the most aggressive and fearful wasps in China, can cause grievous allergies and toxic reactions, leading to organ failure and even death. However, there is little evidence on molecular data regarding wasps. Therefore, we aimed to provide an insight into the transcripts expressed in the venom gland of wasps.

Results

In our study, high-throughput RNA sequencing was performed using the venom glands of four wasp species. First, the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase submit I (COI) barcoding and the neighbor joining (NJ) tree were used to validate the unique identity and lineage of each individual species. After sequencing, a total of 127,630 contigs were generated and 98,716 coding domain sequences (CDS) were predicted from the four species. The Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis of unigenes revealed their functional role in important biological processes (BP), molecular functions (MF) and cellular components (CC). In addition, c-type, p1 type, p2 type and p3 type were the most commonly found simple sequence repeat (SSR) types in the four species of wasp transcriptome. There were differences in the distribution of SSRs and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) among the four wasp species.

Conclusions

The transcriptome data generated in this study will improve our understanding on bioactive proteins and venom-related genes in wasp venom gland and provide a basis for pests control and other applications. To our knowledge, this is the first study on the identification of large-scale genomic data and the discovery of microsatellite markers from V. tropica ducalis and V. analis fabricius.

Functional venomics of the Big-4 snakes of Pakistan

In South Asia, the "Big-4" venomous snakes Naja naja, Bungarus caeruleus, Daboia russelii, and Echis carinatus are so-called because they are the most medically important snakes in the region. Antivenom is the only effective treatment option for snakebite envenoming but antivenom is not produced domestically in Pakistan making the country reliant on polyvalent products imported from India and Saudi Arabia. The present study investigated the toxin composition and activity of the venoms of Pakistani specimens by means of proteomic and physio/pharmacological experiments. To evaluate the composition of venoms, 1D/2D-PAGE of crude venoms and RP-HPLC followed by SDS-PAGE were performed. Enzymatic, hemolytic, coagulant and platelet aggregating activities of crude venoms were assayed and were concordant with expectations based on the abundance of protein species in each. Neutralization assays were performed using Bharat polyvalent antivenom (BPAV), a product raised against venoms from Big-4 specimens from southern India. BPAV exhibited cross-reactivity against the Pakistani venoms, however, neutralization of clinically relevant activities was variable and rarely complete. Cumulatively, the presented data not only highlight geographical variations present in the venoms of the Big-4 snakes of South Asia, but also demonstrate the neutralization potential of Indian polyvalent against the venom of Pakistani specimens. Given the partial neutralization observed, it is clear that whilst BPAV is a life-saving product in Pakistan, in future it is hoped that a region-specific product might be manufactured domestically, using venoms of local snakes in the immunising mixture.

Snake Venoms in Drug Discovery: Valuable Therapeutic Tools for Life Saving

Animal venoms are used as defense mechanisms or to immobilize and digest prey. In fact, venoms are complex mixtures of enzymatic and non-enzymatic components with specific pathophysiological functions. Peptide toxins isolated from animal venoms target mainly ion channels, membrane receptors and components of the hemostatic system with high selectivity and affinity. The present review shows an up-to-date survey on the pharmacology of snake-venom bioactive components and evaluates their therapeutic perspectives against a wide range of pathophysiological conditions. Snake venoms have also been used as medical tools for thousands of years especially in tradition Chinese medicine. Consequently, snake venoms can be considered as mini-drug libraries in which each drug is pharmacologically active. However, less than 0.01% of these toxins have been identified and characterized. For instance, Captopril^® (Enalapril), Integrilin^® (Eptifibatide) and Aggrastat^® (Tirofiban) are drugs based on snake venoms, which have been approved by the FDA. In addition to these approved drugs, many other snake venom components are now involved in preclinical or clinical trials for a variety of therapeutic applications. These examples show that snake venoms can be a valuable source of new principle components in drug discovery.

Neurobiology and therapeutic utility of neurotoxins targeting postsynaptic mechanisms of neuromuscular transmission

The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is the principal site for the translation of motor neurochemical signals to muscle activity. Therefore, the release and sensing machinery of acetylcholine (ACh) along with muscle contraction are two of the main targets of natural toxins and pathogens, causing paralysis. Given pharmacology and medical advances, the active ingredients of toxins that target postsynaptic mechanisms have become of major interest, showing promise as drug leads. Herein, we review key facets of prevalent toxins modulating the mechanisms of ACh sensing and generation of the postsynaptic response, with muscle contraction. We consider the correlation between their outstanding selectivity and potency plus effects on motor function, and discuss emerging data advocating their usage for the development of therapies alleviating neuromuscular dysfunction.

Proteomic Characterization of Two Medically Important Malaysian Snake Venoms, Calloselasma rhodostoma (Malayan Pit Viper) and Ophiophagus hannah (King Cobra)

Calloselasma rhodostoma (CR) and Ophiophagus hannah (OH) are two medically important snakes found in Malaysia. While some studies have described the biological properties of these venoms, feeding and environmental conditions also influence the concentration and distribution of snake venom toxins, resulting in variations in venom composition. Therefore, a combined proteomic approach using shotgun and gel filtration chromatography, analyzed by tandem mass spectrometry, was used to examine the composition of venoms from these Malaysian snakes. The analysis revealed 114 proteins (15 toxin families) and 176 proteins (20 toxin families) in Malaysian Calloselasma rhodostoma and Ophiophagus hannah species, respectively. Flavin monoamine oxidase, phospholipase A₂, phosphodiesterase, snake venom metalloproteinase, and serine protease toxin families were identified in both venoms. Aminopeptidase, glutaminyl-peptide cyclotransferase along with ankyrin repeats were identified for the first time in CR venom, and insulin, c-type lectins/snaclecs, hepatocyte growth factor, and macrophage colony-stimulating factor together with tumor necrosis factor were identified in OH venom for the first time. Our combined proteomic approach has identified a comprehensive arsenal of toxins in CR and OH venoms. These data may be utilized for improved antivenom production, understanding pathological effects of envenoming, and the discovery of biologically active peptides with medical and/or biotechnological value.

Vipers of the Middle East: A Rich Source of Bioactive Molecules

Snake venom serves as a tool of defense against threat and helps in prey digestion. It consists of a mixture of enzymes, such as phospholipase A2, metalloproteases, and l-amino acid oxidase, and toxins, including neurotoxins and cytotoxins. Beside their toxicity, venom components possess many pharmacological effects and have been used to design drugs and as biomarkers of diseases. Viperidae is one family of venomous snakes that is found nearly worldwide. However, three main vipers exist in the Middle Eastern region: Montivipera bornmuelleri, Macrovipera lebetina, and Vipera (Daboia) palaestinae. The venoms of these vipers have been the subject of many studies and are considered as a promising source of bioactive molecules. In this review, we present an overview of these three vipers, with a special focus on their venom composition as well as their biological activities, and we discuss further frameworks for the exploration of each venom.

In-Depth Venome of the Brazilian Rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus: An Integrative Approach Combining Its Venom Gland Transcriptome and Venom Proteome

Snake venoms are complex mixtures mainly composed of proteins and small peptides. Crotoxin is one of the most studied components from Crotalus venoms, but many other components are less known due to their low abundance. The venome of Crotalus durissus terrificus, the most lethal Brazilian snake, was investigated by combining its venom gland transcriptome and proteome to create a holistic database of venom compounds unraveling novel toxins. We constructed a cDNA library from C. d. terrificus venom gland using the Illumina platform and investigated its venom proteome through high resolution liquid chromotography-tandem mass spectrometry. After integrating data from both data sets, more than 30 venom components classes were identified by the transcriptomic analysis and 15 of them were detected in the venom proteome. However, few of them (PLA₂, SVMP, SVSP, and VEGF) were relatively abundant. Furthermore, only seven expressed transcripts contributed to ∼82% and ∼73% of the abundance in the transcriptome and proteome, respectively. Additionally, novel venom proteins are reported, and we highlight the importance of using different databases to perform the data integration and discuss the structure of the venom components-related transcripts identified. Concluding, this research paves the way for novel investigations and discovery of future pharmacological agents or targets in the antivenom therapy.

Pharmacokinetics of Snake Venom

Understanding snake venom pharmacokinetics is essential for developing risk assessment strategies and determining the optimal dose and timing of antivenom required to bind all venom in snakebite patients. This review aims to explore the current knowledge of snake venom pharmacokinetics in animals and humans. Literature searches were conducted using EMBASE (1974–present) and Medline (1946–present). For animals, 12 out of 520 initially identified studies met the inclusion criteria. In general, the disposition of snake venom was described by a two-compartment model consisting of a rapid distribution phase and a slow elimination phase, with half-lives of 5 to 48 min and 0.8 to 28 h, respectively, following rapid intravenous injection of the venoms or toxins. When the venoms or toxins were administered intramuscularly or subcutaneously, an initial absorption phase and slow elimination phase were observed. The bioavailability of venoms or toxins ranged from 4 to 81.5% following intramuscular administration and 60% following subcutaneous administration. The volume of distribution and the clearance varied between snake species. For humans, 24 out of 666 initially identified publications contained sufficient information and timed venom concentrations in the absence of antivenom therapy for data extraction. The data were extracted and modelled in NONMEM. A one-compartment model provided the best fit, with an elimination half-life of 9.71 ± 1.29 h. It is intended that the quantitative information provided in this review will provide a useful basis for future studies that address the pharmacokinetics of snakebite in humans.

Comparison of proteomic profiles of the venoms of two of the 'Big Four' snakes of India, the Indian cobra (Naja naja) and the common krait (Bungarus caeruleus), and analyses of their toxins

Snake venoms are mixtures of biologically-active proteins and peptides, and several studies have described the characteristics of some of these toxins. However, complete proteomic profiling of the venoms of many snake species has not yet been done. The Indian cobra (Naja naja) and common krait (Bungarus caeruleus) are elapid snake species that are among the 'Big Four' responsible for the majority of human snake envenomation cases in India. As understanding the composition and complexity of venoms is necessary for successful treatment of envenomation in humans, we utilized three different proteomic profiling approaches to characterize these venoms: i) one-dimensional SDS-PAGE coupled with in-gel tryptic digestion and electrospray tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-LC-MS/MS) of individual protein bands; ii) in-solution tryptic digestion of crude venoms coupled with ESI-LC-MS/MS; and iii) separation by gel-filtration chromatography coupled with tryptic digestion and ESI-LC-MS/MS of separated fractions. From the generated data, 81 and 46 different proteins were identified from N. naja and B. caeruleus venoms, respectively, belonging to fifteen different protein families. Venoms from both species were found to contain a variety of phospholipases A₂ and three-finger toxins, whereas relatively higher numbers of snake venom metalloproteinases were found in N. naja compared to B. caeruleus venom. The analyses also identified less represented venom proteins including L-amino acid oxidases, cysteine-rich secretory proteins, 5'-nucleotidases and venom nerve growth factors. Further, Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors, cobra venom factors, phosphodiesterases, vespryns and aminopeptidases were identified in the N. naja venom, while acetylcholinesterases and hyaluronidases were found in the B. caeruleus venom. We further analyzed protein coverage (Lys/Arg rich and poor regions as well as potential glycosylation sites) using in-house software. These studies expand our understanding of the proteomes of the venoms of these two medically-important species.

Pharmacological screening technologies for venom peptide discovery

Venomous animals occupy one of the most successful evolutionary niches and occur on nearly every continent. They deliver venoms via biting and stinging apparatuses with the aim to rapidly incapacitate prey and deter predators. This has led to the evolution of venom components that act at a number of biological targets - including ion channels, G-protein coupled receptors, transporters and enzymes - with exquisite selectivity and potency, making venom-derived components attractive pharmacological tool compounds and drug leads. In recent years, plate-based pharmacological screening approaches have been introduced to accelerate venom-derived drug discovery. A range of assays are amenable to this purpose, including high-throughput electrophysiology, fluorescence-based functional and binding assays. However, despite these technological advances, the traditional activity-guided fractionation approach is time-consuming and resource-intensive. The combination of screening techniques suitable for miniaturization with sequence-based discovery approaches - supported by advanced proteomics, mass spectrometry, chromatography as well as synthesis and expression techniques - promises to further improve venom peptide discovery. Here, we discuss practical aspects of establishing a pipeline for venom peptide drug discovery with a particular emphasis on pharmacology and pharmacological screening approaches. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Venom-derived Peptides as Pharmacological Tools.'

Proteomic analysis to unravel the complex venom proteome of eastern India Naja naja: Correlation of venom composition with its biochemical and pharmacological properties

The complex venom proteome of the eastern India (EI) spectacled cobra (Naja naja) was analyzed using tandem mass spectrometry of cation-exchange venom fractions. About 75% of EI N. naja venom proteins were <18kDa and cationic at physiological pH of blood. SDS-PAGE (non-reduced) analysis indicated that in the native state venom proteins either interacted with each-other or self-aggregated resulting in the formation of higher molecular mass complexes. Proteomic analysis revealed that 43 enzymatic and non-enzymatic proteins in EI N. naja venom with a percent composition of about 28.4% and 71.6% respectively were distributed over 15 venom protein families. The three finger toxins (63.8%) and phospholipase A₂s (11.4%) were the most abundant families of non-enzymatic and enzymatic proteins, respectively. nanoLC-ESI-MS/MS analysis demonstrated the occurrence of acetylcholinesterase, phosphodiesterase, cholinesterase and snake venom serine proteases in N. naja venom previously not detected by proteomic analysis. ATPase, ADPase, hyaluronidase, TAME, and BAEE-esterase activities were detected by biochemical analysis; however, due to a limitation in the protein database depository they were not identified in EI N. naja venom by proteomic analysis. The proteome composition of EI N. naja venom was well correlated with its in vitro and in vivo pharmacological properties in experimental animals and envenomed human.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Proteomic analysis reveals the complex and diverse protein profile of EI N. naja venom which collectively contributes to the severe pathophysiological manifestation upon cobra envenomation. The study has also aided in comprehending the compositional variation in venom proteins of N. naja within the Indian sub-continent. In addition, this study has also identified several enzymes in EI N. naja venom which were previously uncharacterized by proteomic analysis of Naja venom.

Venom-gland transcriptome and venom proteome of the Malaysian king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)

Background

The king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is widely distributed throughout many parts of Asia. This study aims to investigate the complexity of Malaysian Ophiophagus hannah (MOh) venom for a better understanding of king cobra venom variation and its envenoming pathophysiology. The venom gland transcriptome was investigated using the Illumina HiSeq™ platform, while the venom proteome was profiled by 1D-SDS-PAGE-nano-ESI-LCMS/MS.

Results

Transcriptomic results reveal high redundancy of toxin transcripts (3357.36 FPKM/transcript) despite small cluster numbers, implying gene duplication and diversification within restricted protein families. Among the 23 toxin families identified, three-finger toxins (3FTxs) and snake-venom metalloproteases (SVMPs) have the most diverse isoforms. These 2 toxin families are also the most abundantly transcribed, followed in descending order by phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s), cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISPs), Kunitz-type inhibitors (KUNs), and L-amino acid oxidases (LAAOs). Seventeen toxin families exhibited low mRNA expression, including hyaluronidase, DPP-IV and 5’-nucleotidase that were not previously reported in the venom-gland transcriptome of a Balinese O. hannah. On the other hand, the MOh proteome includes 3FTxs, the most abundantly expressed proteins in the venom (43 % toxin sbundance). Within this toxin family, there are 6 long-chain, 5 short-chain and 2 non-conventional 3FTx. Neurotoxins comprise the major 3FTxs in the MOh venom, consistent with rapid neuromuscular paralysis reported in systemic envenoming. The presence of toxic enzymes such as LAAOs, SVMPs and PLA₂ would explain tissue inflammation and necrotising destruction in local envenoming. Dissimilarities in the subtypes and sequences between the neurotoxins of MOh and Naja kaouthia (monocled cobra) are in agreement with the poor cross-neutralization activity of N. kaouthia antivenom used against MOh venom. Besides, the presence of cobra venom factor, nerve growth factors, phosphodiesterase, 5’-nucleotidase, and DPP-IV in the venom proteome suggests its probable hypotensive action in subduing prey.

Conclusion

This study reports the diversity and abundance of toxins in the venom of the Malaysian king cobra (MOh). The results correlate with the pathophysiological actions of MOh venom, and dispute the use of Naja cobra antivenoms to treat MOh envenomation. The findings also provide a deeper insight into venom variations due to geography, which is crucial for the development of a useful pan-regional antivenom.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-015-1828-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Deciphering the venomic transcriptome of killer-wasp Vespa velutina

Wasp stings have been arising to be a severe public health problem in China in recent years. However, molecular information about lethal or toxic factors in wasp venom is extremely lacking. In this study, we used two pyrosequencing platforms to analyze the transcriptome of Vespa velutina, the most common wasp species native in China. Besides the substantial amount of transcripts encoding for allergens usually regarded as the major lethal factor of wasp sting, a greater abundance of hemostasis-impairing toxins and neurotoxins in the venom of V. velutina were identified, implying that toxic reactions and allergic effects are envenoming strategy for the dangerous outcomes. The pattern of differentially expressed genes before and after venom extraction clearly indicates that the manifestation of V. velutina stings depends on subtle regulations in the metabolic pathway required for toxin recruitment. This comparative analysis offers timely clues for developing clinical treatments for wasp envenoming in China and around the world.

RNA-seq and high-definition mass spectrometry reveal the complex and divergent venoms of two rear-fanged colubrid snakes

Background

Largely because of their direct, negative impacts on human health, the venoms of front-fanged snakes of the families Viperidae and Elapidae have been extensively characterized proteomically, transcriptomically, and pharmacologically. However, relatively little is known about the molecular complexity and evolution of the venoms of rear-fanged colubrid snakes, which are, with a few notable exceptions, regarded as harmless to humans. Many of these snakes have venoms with major effects on their preferred prey, and their venoms are probably as critical to their survival as those of front-fanged elapids and viperids.

Results

We sequenced the venom-gland transcriptomes from a specimen of Hypsiglena (Desert Night Snake; family Colubridae, subfamily Dipsadinae) and of Boiga irregularis (Brown Treesnake; family Colubridae, subfamily Colubrinae) and verified the transcriptomic results proteomically by means of high-definition mass spectrometry. We identified nearly 3,000 nontoxin genes for each species. For B. irregularis, we found 108 putative toxin transcripts in 46 clusters with <1% nucleotide divergence, and for Hypsiglena we identified 79 toxin sequences that were grouped into 33 clusters. Comparisons of the venoms revealed divergent venom types, with Hypsiglena possessing a viper-like venom dominated by metalloproteinases, and B. irregularis having a more elapid-like venom, consisting primarily of three-finger toxins.

Conclusions

Despite the difficulty of procuring venom from rear-fanged species, we were able to complete all analyses from a single specimen of each species without pooling venom samples or glands, demonstrating the power of high-definition transcriptomic and proteomic approaches. We found a high level of divergence in the venom types of two colubrids. These two venoms reflected the hemorrhagic/neurotoxic venom dichotomy that broadly characterizes the difference in venom strategies between elapids and viperids.

Crystal structure of snake venom acetylcholinesterase in complex with inhibitory antibody fragment Fab410 bound at the peripheral site: evidence for open and closed states of a back door channel

The acetylcholinesterase found in the venom of Bungarus fasciatus (BfAChE) is produced as a soluble, non-amphiphilic monomer with a canonical catalytic domain but a distinct C terminus compared with the other vertebrate enzymes. Moreover, the peripheral anionic site of BfAChE, a surface site located at the active site gorge entrance, bears two substitutions altering sensitivity to cationic inhibitors. Antibody Elec410, generated against Electrophorus electricus acetylcholinesterase (EeAChE), inhibits EeAChE and BfAChE by binding to their peripheral sites. However, both complexes retain significant residual catalytic activity, suggesting incomplete gorge occlusion by bound antibody and/or high frequency back door opening. To explore a novel acetylcholinesterase species, ascertain the molecular bases of inhibition by Elec410, and document the determinants and mechanisms for back door opening, we solved a 2.7-Å resolution crystal structure of natural BfAChE in complex with antibody fragment Fab410. Crystalline BfAChE forms the canonical dimer found in all acetylcholinesterase structures. Equally represented open and closed states of a back door channel, associated with alternate positions of a tyrosine phenol ring at the active site base, coexist in each subunit. At the BfAChE molecular surface, Fab410 is seated on the long Ω-loop between two N-glycan chains and partially occludes the gorge entrance, a position that fully reflects the available mutagenesis and biochemical data. Experimentally based flexible molecular docking supports a similar Fab410 binding mode onto the EeAChE antigen. These data document the molecular and dynamic peculiarities of BfAChE with high frequency back door opening, and the mode of action of Elec410 as one of the largest peptidic inhibitors targeting the acetylcholinesterase peripheral site.

Molecular characterization of monoclonal antibodies that inhibit acetylcholinesterase by targeting the peripheral site and backdoor region

The inhibition properties and target sites of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) Elec403, Elec408 and Elec410, generated against Electrophorus electricus acetylcholinesterase (AChE), have been defined previously using biochemical and mutagenesis approaches. Elec403 and Elec410, which bind competitively with each other and with the peptidic toxin inhibitor fasciculin, are directed toward distinctive albeit overlapping epitopes located at the AChE peripheral anionic site, which surrounds the entrance of the active site gorge. Elec408, which is not competitive with the other two mAbs nor fasciculin, targets a second epitope located in the backdoor region, distant from the gorge entrance. To characterize the molecular determinants dictating their binding site specificity, we cloned and sequenced the mAbs; generated antigen-binding fragments (Fab) retaining the parental inhibition properties; and explored their structure-function relationships using complementary x-ray crystallography, homology modeling and flexible docking approaches. Hypermutation of one Elec403 complementarity-determining region suggests occurrence of antigen-driven selection towards recognition of the AChE peripheral site. Comparative analysis of the 1.9Å-resolution structure of Fab408 and of theoretical models of its Fab403 and Fab410 congeners evidences distinctive surface topographies and anisotropic repartitions of charges, consistent with their respective target sites and inhibition properties. Finally, a validated, data-driven docking model of the Fab403-AChE complex suggests a mode of binding at the PAS that fully correlates with the functional data. This comprehensive study documents the molecular peculiarities of Fab403 and Fab410, as the largest peptidic inhibitors directed towards the peripheral site, and those of Fab408, as the first inhibitor directed toward the backdoor region of an AChE and a unique template for the design of new, specific modulators of AChE catalysis.

Functional proteomic approach to discover geographic variations of king cobra venoms from Southeast Asia and China

This study deciphers the geographic variations of king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) venom using functional proteomics. Pooled samples of king cobra venom (abbreviated as Ohv) were obtained from Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and two provinces of China, namely Guangxi and Hainan. Using two animal models to test and compare the lethal effects, we found that the Chinese Ohvs were more fatal to mice, while the Southeast Asian Ohvs were more fatal to lizards (Eutropis multifasciata). Various phospholipases A2 (PLA2s), three-finger toxins (3FTxs) and Kunitz-type inhibitors were purified from these Ohvs and compared. Besides the two Chinese Ohv PLA2s with known sequences, eight novel PLA2s were identified from the five Ohv samples and their antiplatelet activities were compared. While two 3FTxs (namely oh-55 and oh-27) were common in all the Ohvs, different sets of 3FTx markers were present in the Chinese and Southeast Asian Ohvs. All the Ohvs contain the Kunitz inhibitor, OH-TCI, while only the Chinese Ohvs contain the inhibitor variant, Oh11-1. Relative to the Chinese Ohvs which contained more phospholipases, the Southeast Asian Ohvs had higher metalloproteinase, acetylcholine esterase, and alkaline phosphatase activities.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Remarkable variations in five king cobra geographic samples reveal fast evolution and dynamic translational regulation of the venom which probably adapted to different prey ecology as testified by the lethal tests on mice and lizards. Our results predict possible variations of the king cobra envenoming to human and the importance of using local antivenin for snakebite treatment.

Characterization of monomeric and multimeric snake neurotoxins and other bioactive proteins from the venom of the lethal Australian common copperhead (Austrelaps superbus)

Envenomation by Australian copperheads results mainly in muscle paralysis largely attributed to the presence of postsynaptic α-neurotoxins. However, poorly reversible neurotoxic effects suggest that these venoms may contain snake presynaptic phospholipase A2 neurotoxins (SPANs) that irreversibly inhibit neurotransmitter release. Using size-exclusion liquid chromatography, the present study isolated the first multimeric SPAN complex from the venom of the Australian common copperhead, Austrelaps superbus. The multimeric SPAN P-elapitoxin-As1a (P-EPTX-As1a) along with two novel monomeric SPANs and a new postsynaptic α-neurotoxin were then pharmacologically characterized using the chick biventer cervicis nerve-muscle preparation. All SPANs inhibited nerve-evoked twitch contractions at the neuromuscular junction without inhibiting contractile responses to cholinergic agonists or KCl. These actions are consistent with a prejunctional action to inhibit neurotransmitter release, without direct myotoxicity. Furthermore, the multimeric P-EPTX-As1a caused tetanic 'fade' in muscle tension under high frequency nerve stimulation, and produced a triphasic alteration to neurotransmitter release. These actions have been previously noted with other multimeric SPAN complexes such as taipoxin. Moreover, the neurotoxic α-subunit of P-EPTX-As1a shows high homology to taipoxin α-chain. Several other coagulopathic and myotoxic high mass proteins including a class PIII snake venom metalloproteinase, C-type lectin, l-amino acid oxidase, acetylcholinesterase and phospholipase B were also identified that may contribute to the overall toxicity of A. superbus venom. In conclusion, clinicians should be aware that early antivenom intervention might be necessary to prevent the onset of irreversible presynaptic neurotoxicity caused by multimeric and monomeric SPANs and that A. superbus venom is potentially capable of producing coagulopathic and myotoxic effects.

Toxicological effect of herbicides (diuron and bentazon) on snake venom and electric eel acetylcholinesterase

The toxicological effects of the active ingredients of the herbicides diuron and bentazon on the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) of krait (Bungarus sindanus) venom and electric eel (Electrophorus electricus) were studied. The diuron and entazon caused non-competitive inhibition of AChE from both species. For the venom AChE, the calculated IC50 for diuron and bentazon were found to be 3.25 and 0.14 μM, while for eel AChE, the respective IC50 values were 3.6 and 0.135 μM. In comparison, bentazon was a more potent inhibitor than diuron of AChE from both species. The insecticide lindane did not have any inhibitory effect on AChE activity in either species, even when tested at high concentrations (200-800 μM).

Enzymatic toxins from snake venom: structural characterization and mechanism of catalysis

Snake venoms are cocktails of enzymes and non-enzymatic proteins used for both the immobilization and digestion of prey. The most common snake venom enzymes include acetylcholinesterases, l-amino acid oxidases, serine proteinases, metalloproteinases and phospholipases A(2) . Higher catalytic efficiency, thermal stability and resistance to proteolysis make these enzymes attractive models for biochemists, enzymologists and structural biologists. Here, we review the structures of these enzymes and describe their structure-based mechanisms of catalysis and inhibition. Some of the enzymes exist as protein complexes in the venom. Thus we also discuss the functional role of non-enzymatic subunits and the pharmacological effects of such protein complexes. The structures of inhibitor-enzyme complexes provide ideal platforms for the design of potent inhibitors which are useful in the development of prototypes and lead compounds with potential therapeutic applications.

Comparative study of the inhibitory effect of antidepressants on cholinesterase activity in Bungarus sindanus (krait) venom, human serum and rat striatum

Cholinesterases are divided into two classes based on differences in their substrate specificity and tissue distribution: acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). These enzymes may be inhibited by several compounds, such as antidepressants. The antidepressants paroxetine, imipramine, clomipramine and sertraline inhibited both venom AChE as well as human serum BChE in a concentration-dependent manner but had no effect on AChE in the rat brain striatum. The IC(50) of venom calculated for imipramine was 0.3 mM, paroxetine 0.38 mM, clomipramine 0.34 mM and sertraline 0.35 mM. Analysis of kinetic data indicated that the inhibition caused by sertraline and paroxetine was mixed, i.e. K(m) values increased and V(max) decreased in a concentration dependent manner. Imipramine and clomipramine exhibited competitive inhibition, i.e. K(m) values increased and V(max) remained constant. The present results suggest that these therapeutic agents used for depression can also be considered as inhibitors of snake venom and human serum cholinesterase.

A universal method for fishing target proteins from mixtures of biomolecules using isothermal titration calorimetry

The most challenging tasks in biology include the identification of (1) the orphan receptor for a ligand, (2) the ligand for an orphan receptor protein, and (3) the target protein(s) for a given drug or a lead compound that are critical for the pharmacological or side effects. At present, several approaches are available, including cell- or animal-based assays, affinity labeling, solid-phase binding assays, surface plasmon resonance, and nuclear magnetic resonance. Most of these techniques are not easy to apply when the target protein is unknown and the compound is not amenable to labeling, chemical modification, or immobilization. Here we demonstrate a new universal method for fishing orphan target proteins from a complex mixture of biomolecules using isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) as a tracking tool. We took snake venom, a crude mixture of several hundred proteins/peptides, as a model to demonstrate our proposed ITC method in tracking the isolation and purification of two distinct target proteins, a major component and a minor component. Identities of fished out target proteins were confirmed by amino acid sequencing and inhibition assays. This method has the potential to make a significant advancement in the area of identifying orphan target proteins and inhibitor screening in drug discovery and characterization.

Functional genomics of nematode acetylcholinesterases

Acetylcholine is the major excitatory neurotransmitter controlling motor activities in nematodes, and the enzyme which hydrolyses and inactivates acetylcholine, acetylcholinesterase, is thus essential for regulation of cholinergic transmission. Different forms of acetylcholinesterase are encoded by multiple genes in nematodes, and analysis of the pattern of expression of these genes in Caenorhabditis elegans suggests that they perform non-redundant functions. In addition, many parasitic species which colonise host mucosal surfaces secrete hydrophilic variants of acetylcholinesterase, although the function of these enzymes is still unclear. Acetylcholinesterases have a history as targets for therapeutic agents against helminth parasites, but anti-cholinesterases have been used much more extensively as pesticides, for example to control crop damage and ectoparasitic infestation of livestock. The toxicity associated with these compounds (generally organophosphates and carbamates) has led to legislation to withdraw them from the market or restrict their use in many countries. Nevertheless, acetylcholinesterases provide a good example of a neuromuscular target enzyme in helminth parasites, and it may yet be possible to develop more selective inhibitors. In this article, we describe what is known about the structure and function of vertebrate cholinesterases, illustrate the molecular diversity and tissue distribution of these enzymes in C. elegans, and discuss to what extent this may represent a paradigm for nematodes in general.

Malathion, carbofuran and paraquat inhibit Bungarus sindanus (krait) venom acetylcholinesterase and human serum butyrylcholinesterase in vitro

Carbofuran and malathion, well known pesticides, and paraquat, a world widely used herbicide, were tested on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) from Bungarus sindanus venom and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) from human serum. The calculated IC(50 )values for inhibition of venom enzyme by malathion, carbofuran and paraquat were 2.5, 0.14, and 0.16 microM, respectively. The values for inhibition of serum butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) were 3.5, 0.09 and 0.18 microM, respectively. Analysis of kinetic data indicated that the inhibition caused by malathion, carbofuran and paraquat was mixed for venom AChE. For BChE from human serum, the inhibition caused by malathion and paraquat was mixed and for carbofuran it was uncompetitive. The present results suggest a commercial paraquat preparation (a popular herbicide) inhibits cholinesterases with similar or higher potency than classical pesticide inhibitors. Furthermore, this inhibition was observed both in human serum and snake venom, a newly studied source of AChE.

Inhibition of two different cholinesterases by tacrine

Kinetic parameters of the effect of tacrine as a cholinesterase inhibitor have been studied in two different sources: snake venom (Bungarus sindanus) acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and human serum butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). Tacrine inhibited both venom acetylcholinesterase (AChE) as well as human serum butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) in a concentration-dependent manner. Kinetic studies indicated that the nature of inhibition was mixed for both enzymes, i.e. Km values increase and Vmax decrease with the increase of the tacrine concentration. The calculated IC50 for snake venom and for human serum were 31 and 25.6 nM, respectively. Ki was observed to be 13 nM for venom acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and 12 nM for serum butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). KI (constant of AChE-ASCh-tacrine complex into AChE-ASCh complex and tacrine) was estimated to be 20 nM for venom and 10 nM for serum butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), while the gammaKm (dissociation constant of AChE-ASCh-tacrine complex into AChE-tacrine complex and ASCh) were 0.086 and 0.147 mM for snake venom AChE and serum BChE, respectively. The present results suggest that this therapeutic agent used for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease can also be considered an inhibitor of snake venom and human serum butyrylcholinesterase. Values of Ki and KI show that tacrine had more affinity with these enzymes as compared with other cholinesterases from the literature.

Structural insights into AChE inhibition by monoclonal antibodies

The target sites of three inhibitory monoclonal antibodies, Elec403, 408 and 410, on eel AChE have been defined previously. Elec403 and 410 are directed toward distinct but overlapping epitopes at the enzyme peripheral site, while Elec408 binds to a distinct regulatory site on the enzyme surface, where the "back door" may be located. Elec410 also inhibits Bunganus fasciatus AChE. To investigate the molecular determinants for AChE inhibition by these antibodies, we have cloned and sequenced the IgGs, generated, purified, characterized the Fab molecules, and initiated crystallographic and theoretical modeling studies. Preliminary data are presented.

Investigation of the binding mode of (−)-meptazinol and bis-meptazinol derivatives on acetylcholinesterase using a molecular docking method

Molecular docking has been performed to investigate the binding mode of (-)-meptazinol (MEP) with acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and to screen bis-meptazinol (bis-MEP) derivatives for preferable synthetic candidates virtually. A reliable and practical docking method for investigation of AChE ligands was established by the comparison of two widely used docking programs, FlexX and GOLD. In our hands, we had more luck using GOLD than FlexX in reproducing the experimental poses of known ligands (RMSD<1.5 A). GOLD fitness values of known ligands were also in good agreement with their activities. In the present GOLD docking protocol, (-)-MEP seemed to bind with the enzyme catalytic site in an open-gate conformation through strong hydrophobic interactions and a hydrogen bond. Virtual screening of a potential candidate compound library suggested that the most promising 15 bis-MEP derivatives on the list were mainly derived from (-)-MEP with conformations of (S,S) and (SR,RS) and with a 2- to 7-carbon linkage. Although there are still no biological results to confirm the predictive power of this method, the current study could provide an alternate tool for structural optimization of (-)-MEP as new AChE inhibitors. [Figure: see text].

Enzyme association with lipidic Langmuir-Blodgett films: interests and applications in nanobioscience

This review presents the recent advances in the achievement of organized proteo-lipidic nanostructures based on Langmuir-Blodgett technology and their potential applications in the nanobioscience area. By using the self-assembled properties of amphiphilic biomolecules at the air-water interface, the Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) technique offers the possibility to prepare ultrathin layers suitable for biomolecule immobilization at the molecular level. This review will provide a general overview of the enzyme association with preformed Langmuir-Blodgett films in connection with their potential applications in biosensing device developments, and then introduce the design of a new functionalised biomimetic nanostructure with oriented recognition site. The potential applications of such an organized proteo-lipidic nanostructure for biocatalysis investigations of an immobilised enzyme in a biomimetic situation and for the development of bioelectronic devices are finally discussed.

Kinetics Study of Bungarus fasciatus Venom Acetylcholinesterase Immobilised on a Langmuir-Blodgett Proteo-Glycolipidic Bilayer

This study deals with the kinetics properties of an enzyme immobilised in a defined orientation in a biomimetic environment. For this purpose, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was captured at the surface of a nanostructured proteo-glycolipidic Langmuir-Blodgett film through specific recognition by a noninhibitor monoclonal antibody (IgG) inserted in a neoglycolipid bilayer. Modelling of this molecular assembly provided a plausible interpretation of the functional orientation of the enzyme. The AChE activity being stable for several weeks, the enzyme kinetics were investigated, and fitted perfectly with heterogeneous biocatalytic behaviour representative of cellular enzymatic catalysis. The AChE-IgG-glycolipid nanostructure was directly interfaced with an efficient optical device. Such an association, leading to an intimate contact between the nanostructure and the biochemical signal transducer, gives direct access to the intrinsic AChE behaviour. This study thus demonstrates the potential for direct investigation of the kinetic behaviour of an immobilised enzyme on a lipid bilayer through an efficient transduction system.

Facile synthesis of [11C]edrophonium and its analogues as new potential PET imaging agents for heart acetylcholinesterase

[11C]Edrophonium and its analogues have been synthesized for evaluation as new potential positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agents for heart acetylcholinesterase. The tracers were prepared by N-[11C]methylation of precursors using [11C]methyl triflate and isolated by solid-phase extraction (SPE) purification procedure in 50-65% radiochemical yields.

Substrate activation in acetylcholinesterase induced by low pH or mutation in the pi-cation subsite

Substrate inhibition is considered a defining property of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), whereas substrate activation is characteristic of butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE). To understand the mechanism of substrate inhibition, the pH dependence of acetylthiocholine hydrolysis by AChE was studied between pH 5 and 8. Wild-type human AChE and its mutants Y337G and Y337W, as well as wild-type Bungarus fasciatus AChE and its mutants Y333G, Y333A and Y333W were studied. The pH profile results were unexpected. Instead of substrate inhibition, wild-type AChE and all mutants showed substrate activation at low pH. At high pH, there was substrate inhibition for wild-type AChE and for the mutant with tryptophan in the pi-cation subsite, but substrate activation for mutants containing small residues, glycine or alanine. This is particularly apparent in the B. fasciatus AChE. Thus a single amino acid substitution in the pi-cation site, from the aromatic tyrosine of B. fasciatus AChE to the alanine of BuChE, caused AChE to behave like BuChE. Excess substrate binds to the peripheral anionic site (PAS) of AChE. The finding that AChE is activated by excess substrate supports the idea that binding of a second substrate molecule to the PAS induces a conformational change that reorganizes the active site.

Multiple advantages of capillary zone electrophoresis for exploring protein conformational stability

This review summarizes the work of our laboratory to explore the use of capillary zone electrophoretic (CZE) methods for the investigation of protein conformational stability. Early CZE works on protein denaturation as well as fundamental and theoretical considerations are discussed. Instrumental aspects of the CE-based approach including general and particular CE requirements are documented. Several aspects dealing with estimation of stability of enzymes (cholinesterases and organophosphate-hydrolyzing enzymes) interacting with organophosphates profusely illustrate the multiple advantages of CZE. The discrimination of parameters controlling the "good compromise" stability/plasticity for allowing functional efficiency of these enzymes is exemplified. Thermal stability, susceptibility to high electric field, alteration of stability by bound ligands and the role of associated cations in metalloenzymes have been successfully investigated.

Dual effect of high electric field in capillary electrophoresis study of the conformational stability of Bungarus fasciatus acetylcholinesterase

The effect of high electric field in capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) was evaluated for the study of the thermally induced unfolding of Bungarus fasciatus acetylcholinesterase. This monomer enzyme is characterised by two interdependent uncommon structural features, the asymmetrical distribution of charged residues and a relatively low thermal denaturation temperature. Both traits were presumed to interfere in the thermal unfolding of this enzyme as investigated by CZE. This paper analyses the effect of high electric field on the behaviour of the enzyme native state. It is shown that increasing the applied field causes denaturation-like transition of the enzyme at a current power which does not induce excessive Joule heating in the capillary. The susceptibility to electric field of proteins like cholinesterases, with charge distribution anisotropy, large permanent dipole moment and notable molecular flexibility associated with moderate thermal stability, was subsequently discussed.

Prey specificity, comparative lethality and compositional differences of coral snake venoms

Toxicities of crude venoms from 49 coral snake (Micrurus sp.) populations, representing 15 nominal taxa, were examined in both laboratory mice and in native prey animals and compared with data gathered from two non-micrurine elapids and a crotalid, which served as outgroups. These venoms were further compared on the basis of 23 enzymatic activities. Both toxicities and enzymatic activities were analyzed with respect to natural prey preferences, as determined from stomach content analyses and literature reports. Venoms of nearly all Micrurus for which prey preferences are known, are more toxic to natural prey than to non-prey species. Except for amphisbaenians, prey are more susceptible to venoms of Micrurus that feed upon them, than to venoms of those that eat other organisms. All venoms were more toxic i.v.>i.p.>i.m. Route-specific differences in toxicity are generally greatest for preferred prey species. Cluster analyses of venom enzymatic activities resulted in five clusters, with the fish-eating M. surinamensis more distant from other Micrurus than even the crotalid, Bothrops moojeni. Ophiophagous and amphisbaenian-eating Micrurus formed two close subclusters, one allied to the outgroup species Naja naja and the other to the fossorial, ophiophagous Bungarus multicinctus. Prey preference is shown to be the most important determinant of venom composition in Micrurus.

Thermal stability of acetylcholinesterase from Bungarus fasciatus venom as investigated by capillary electrophoresis

Previous studies on the conformation of the monomeric acetylcholinesterase (AChE) from the krait (Bungarus fasciatus) venom showed that the protein possesses a large permanent dipole moment. These studies predicted that thermal irreversible denaturation must occur via partially unfolded states. The thermal stability of Bungarus AChE was determined using capillary electrophoresis (CE) with optimized conditions. Runs performed at convenient temperature scanning rates provided evidence for an irreversible denaturation process according to the Lumry and Eyring model. The mid-transition temperature, T(m), and the effective enthalpy change, DeltaH(m) were determined at different pH. The temperature dependence of the free energy, DeltaG, of Bungarus AChE unfolding was drawn using values of T(m), DeltaH(m) and DeltaC(p) determined by CE. The thermodynamic parameters for the thermal denaturation of the monomeric snake enzyme were compared with those of different dimeric and tetrameric ChEs. It was shown that the changes in the ratio of DeltaH(cal/)DeltaH(vH) and DeltaC(p) reflect the oligomerization state of these proteins. All these results indicate that wild-type monomeric Bungarus AChE is a stable enzyme under standard conditions. However, designed mutants of this enzyme capable of degrading organophosphates have to be engineered to enhance their thermostability.

Comparative expression of homologous proteins. A novel mode of transcriptional regulation by the coding sequence folding compatibility of chimeras

Recombinant acetylcholinesterases (AChE) are produced at systematically different levels, depending on the enzyme species. To identify the cause of this difference, we designed expression vectors that differed only by the central region of the coding sequence, encoding Torpedo, rat, and Bungarus AChEs and two reciprocal rat/Bungarus and Bungarus/rat chimeras. We found that folding is a limiting factor in the case of Torpedo AChE and the chimeras, for which only a limited fraction of the synthesized polypeptides becomes active and is secreted. In contrast, the fact that rat AChE is less well produced than Bungarus AChE reflects the levels of their respective mRNAs, which seem to be controlled by their transcription rates. A similar difference was observed in the coding and noncoding orientations; it seems to depend on multiple cis-elements. Using CAT constructs, we found that a DNA fragment from the Bungarus AChE gene stimulates expression of the reporter protein, whereas a homologous fragment from the rat AChE gene had no influence. This stimulating effect appears different from that of classical enhancers, although its mechanism remains unknown. In any case, the present results demonstrate that the coding region contributes to control the level of gene expression.

Production of an immunoenzymatic tracer combining a scFv and the acetylcholinesterase of Bungarus fasciatus by genetic recombination

We constructed a plasmid containing a chimeric gene composed of the gene encoding acetylcholinesterase (AChE) from Bungarus fasciatus venom and a gene encoding a single chain antibody fragment (scFv) directed against one of the two subunits of a presynaptic neurotoxin from rattlesnake. Large quantities of the fusion protein were produced in the culture medium of transfected COS cells. Fusion to AChE did not affect the ability of the scFv to recognise its antigen. Similarly, the AChE activity was not impaired in the fusion. The fusion protein was purified from the culture medium in a single step by affinity chromatography. The immunoconjugate obtained consisted of a soluble monomeric form of AChE fused to scFv. It was monovalent and had a molecular weight of 94 kDa. The properties of this scFv-AChE fusion show that the simple, reproducible preparation of various recombinant monovalent immunoenzymatic tracers with low molecular weight is possible. In addition, in the construct presented, the scFv domain can be easily changed to another one taking advantage of the SfiI-NotI restriction sites surrounding this domain.