1
|
Hernandez Duran L, Wilson DT, Rymer TL. Exploring behavioral traits over different contexts in four species of Australian funnel-web spiders. Curr Zool 2023; 69:766-774. [PMID: 37876639 PMCID: PMC10591153 DOI: 10.1093/cz/zoac080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Australian funnel-web spiders are arguably the most venomous spiders in the world, with much research focusing on this aspect of their biology. However, other aspects related to their life history, ecology and behaviour have been overlooked. For the first time, we assessed repeatability, namely risk-taking behaviour, aggressiveness and activity in the contexts of predation, conspecific tolerance and exploration of a new territory in four species of Australian funnel-web spiders: two are closely related, Hadronyche valida and H. infensa, and two have overlapping distributions but occupy different habitats, H. cerberea and Atrax robustus. We also compared behaviors between species. At the species level, we found that H. valida showed consistency in risk-taking behavior when exposed to a predator stimulus, aggressiveness against conspecifics, and exploration of a new territory. In contrast, in the other species, only A. robustus showed repeatability in the context of exploration of a new territory. These results suggest that some behavioral traits are likely more flexible than others, and that the repeatability of behaviors may be species-specific in funnel-webs. When we compared species, we found differences in risk-taking behavior and defensiveness. This study provides novel insights to understanding variation in behavioral traits within and between species of funnel-web spiders, suggesting that some behavioral traits are likely context and/or species dependent, as a result of their evolutionary history. These findings provide key insights for understanding the ecological role of behavior and venom deployment in venomous animals, and a greater understanding of behavior in these medically significant and iconic spiders that are of conservation concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Hernandez Duran
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, P.O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia
- Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia
| | - David Thomas Wilson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Tasmin Lee Rymer
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, P.O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia
- Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4870, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Thumtecho S, Suteparuk S, Sitprija V. Pulmonary involvement from animal toxins: the cellular mechanisms. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2023; 29:e20230026. [PMID: 37727535 PMCID: PMC10506740 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2023-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Venomous animals and their venom have always been of human interest because, despite species differences, coevolution has made them capable of targeting key physiological components of our bodies. Respiratory failure from lung injury is one of the serious consequences of envenomation, and the underlying mechanisms are rarely discussed. This review aims to demonstrate how toxins affect the pulmonary system through various biological pathways. Herein, we propose the common underlying cellular mechanisms of toxin-induced lung injury: interference with normal cell function and integrity, disruption of normal vascular function, and provocation of excessive inflammation. Viperid snakebites are the leading cause of envenomation-induced lung injury, followed by other terrestrial venomous animals such as scorpions, spiders, and centipedes. Marine species, particularly jellyfish, can also inflict such injury. Common pulmonary manifestations include pulmonary edema, pulmonary hemorrhage, and exudative infiltration. Severe envenomation can result in acute respiratory distress syndrome. Pulmonary involvement suggests severe envenomation, thus recognizing these mechanisms and manifestations can aid physicians in providing appropriate treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suthimon Thumtecho
- Division of Toxicology, Department of Medicine, Chulalongkorn
University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society,
Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Suchai Suteparuk
- Division of Toxicology, Department of Medicine, Chulalongkorn
University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society,
Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Visith Sitprija
- Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute and King Chulalongkorn Memorial
Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Vrenozi, Blerina. Venomous spiders of Albania –does an increase of temperature influence the toxicity of spider venom? Toxicon X 2022; 15:100135. [PMID: 35935107 PMCID: PMC9350865 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2022.100135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Black widow spiders (Latrodectus sp.) are distributed worldwide, and in Albania the L. tredecimguttatus Rossi, 1790 has been the dominant spider. Other medically important spiders in Albania include the brown recluse with symptoms known as loxoscelism, the false black widow and the egg sac spiders; the last two inducing similar symptoms to a wasp sting. Methods: The data analyzed is from a decade-long study of 125 patients hospitalized in the regional hospital of Fier County, in the Western Lowland of Albania from May 2009 and to October 2018. Objective: Although the venom is rarely fatal, the recent spider bites raise questions about the influence of higher air temperatures on their possibly increased toxicity. Results: Significantly the severity of the α-latrotoxin rises during the summer, when human–spider contact frequency is higher and when the black widow spiders have an increased motivation to protect their egg sacs. Conclusion: This study revealed an increased severity of the black widow bites with respect to patient health, shown via all the severe systemic symptoms, during those months with higher temperatures. The spider bites revealed a higher venom severity during summer, when there was a higher human-spider contact frequency. The longer recovery times are probably related to the quantity and toxicity of the spider venom á-latrotoxin. Extreme environmental conditions increase the spider motivation to protect the egg sac and self-protect. Higher environmental temperatures may thus lead to higher black widow venom toxicity during the hot summer months.
Collapse
|
4
|
New Record of Spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) from Bashagard District, Southern Iran, with the Report of a Medically Important Species. J Trop Med 2022; 2022:9509404. [PMID: 35664922 PMCID: PMC9162852 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9509404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Spiders are the largest order of arachnids with some medically important species. Considering that no comprehensive research has been conducted on the fauna and distribution of Araneae in Bashagard County (Hormozgan Province) so far, the present investigation has been carried out on these essential issues in this deprived tropical region. Fifteen sampling locations were selected based on the extent of each area and considering climatic characteristics. Samplings were carried out at least four times in each region from February 2017 to September 2018, covering up to a radius of 500 meters from the defined locations. Specimens were collected using the hand collection method, pitfall trapping, and aspirator sampling. All collected samples were preserved in 70% ethanol and were identified using valid taxonomic keys. Of all the 390 collected samples, 134 identifiable specimens were considered for morphological identification. 11 species belonging to 10 genera and seven families were identified. Immature specimens were identified only at the family level. Wadicosa fidelis was the most distributed and abundant species in the area, with 13 localities and 84.33% of all identifiable samples. Plexippus minor is a new record for the spider fauna of Iran. Moreover, Loxosceles rufescens, a medically important species, Artema doriae, and Eusparassus mesopotamicus were reported for the first time from Hormozgan province. Despite collecting only one specimen, of L. rufescens, due to the lack of proper medical facilities and transportation systems in the area, health staff must be alert about this medically important species and warn residents about its potential dangers.
Collapse
|
5
|
Duran LH, Wilson DT, Lee Rymer T. Behaviour of the Sydney funnel-web spider Atrax robustus over different contexts, time, and stimuli. Toxicon X 2022; 13:100093. [PMID: 35146415 PMCID: PMC8816710 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2022.100093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Atrax robustus is an iconic Australian spider because the venom can be lethal to humans. Moreover, some of the venom biomolecules have promise as therapeutic and bioinsecticidal leads. Nonetheless, aspects related to the life history and behaviour of this species, which might influence changes in venom components, have been overlooked. We assessed different behavioural traits (antipredator behaviour, defensiveness and activity) of juveniles and adult females across different contexts (predation, conspecific tolerance and exploration of a new territory) and stimuli (puff of air versus prod) over time. Adults responded to a puff of air faster than juveniles, but in response to a prod, both juveniles and adults become more defensive over time. No differences were observed between adults and juveniles for conspecific tolerance and exploration. Understanding behaviour of venomous species is important because behaviours may affect physiological traits, such as venom, and the ability of spiders to adapt to different conditions. Study of Sydney funnel-web spiders behaviour in response to different stimuli over time and different contexts. Adults and juveniles show different behavioural responses to an aversive stimulus. Adults show flexibility of aggressive behaviour in response to a threatening stimulus. The type of threatening stimulus affects the way spiders modulate their behaviour.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Hernández Duran
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, P. O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia
- Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Sciences, James Cook University, P. O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia
- Corresponding author. College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, P. O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia.
| | - David Thomas Wilson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| | - Tasmin Lee Rymer
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, P. O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia
- Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Sciences, James Cook University, P. O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia
- Corresponding author. College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, P. O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Alvarado D, Cardoso-Arenas S, Corrales-García LL, Clement H, Arenas I, Montero-Dominguez PA, Olamendi-Portugal T, Zamudio F, Csoti A, Borrego J, Panyi G, Papp F, Corzo G. A Novel Insecticidal Spider Peptide that Affects the Mammalian Voltage-Gated Ion Channel hKv1.5. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:563858. [PMID: 33597864 PMCID: PMC7883638 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.563858] [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: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Spider venoms include various peptide toxins that modify the ion currents, mainly of excitable insect cells. Consequently, scientific research on spider venoms has revealed a broad range of peptide toxins with different pharmacological properties, even for mammal species. In this work, thirty animal venoms were screened against hKv1.5, a potential target for atrial fibrillation therapy. The whole venom of the spider Oculicosa supermirabilis, which is also insecticidal to house crickets, caused voltage-gated potassium ion channel modulation in hKv1.5. Therefore, a peptide from the spider O. supermirabilis venom, named Osu1, was identified through HPLC reverse-phase fractionation. Osu1 displayed similar biological properties as the whole venom; so, the primary sequence of Osu1 was elucidated by both of N-terminal degradation and endoproteolytic cleavage. Based on its primary structure, a gene that codifies for Osu1 was constructed de novo from protein to DNA by reverse translation. A recombinant Osu1 was expressed using a pQE30 vector inside the E. coli SHuffle expression system. recombinant Osu1 had voltage-gated potassium ion channel modulation of human hKv1.5, and it was also as insecticidal as the native toxin. Due to its novel primary structure, and hypothesized disulfide pairing motif, Osu1 may represent a new family of spider toxins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Alvarado
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Samuel Cardoso-Arenas
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Ligia-Luz Corrales-García
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
- Departamento de Alimentos, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Herlinda Clement
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Iván Arenas
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Pavel Andrei Montero-Dominguez
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Timoteo Olamendi-Portugal
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Fernando Zamudio
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Agota Csoti
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Jesús Borrego
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Gyorgy Panyi
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ferenc Papp
- Department of Biophysics and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gerardo Corzo
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Duran LH, Rymer TL, Wilson DT. Variation in venom composition in the Australian funnel-web spiders Hadronyche valida. Toxicon X 2020; 8:100063. [PMID: 33305257 PMCID: PMC7711288 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2020.100063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Mygalomorph venom properties and active components, which have importance in medicine, agronomy, venomics, ecology and evolution, have been widely studied, but only a small fraction have been characterised. Several studies have shown inter-individual variation in the composition of venom peptides based on ontogeny, sexual dimorphism, season and diet. However, intra-individual variation in venom composition, which could play a key role in the evolution, diversification and function of toxins, is poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrate significant intra- and inter-individual variation in venom composition in the Australian funnel-web spider Hadronyche valida, highlighting that individuals show different venom profiles over time. Fourteen (four juvenile and ten adult females) funnel-web spiders, maintained under the same environmental conditions and diet, were milked a total of four times, one month apart. We then used reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography/electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry to generate venom fingerprints containing the retention time and molecular weights of the different toxin components in the venom. Across all individuals, we documented a combined total of 83 individual venom components. Only 20% of these components were shared between individuals. Individuals showed variation in the composition of venom peptides, with some components consistently present over time, while others were only present at specific times. When individuals were grouped using the Jaccard clustering index and Kernel Principal Component Analysis, spiders formed two distinct clusters, most likely due to their origin or time of collection. This study contributes to the understanding of variation in venom composition at different levels (intra-individual, and intra- and inter-specific) and considers some of the mechanisms of selection that may contribute to venom diversification within arachnids. In addition, inter-specific variation in venom composition can be highly useful as a chemotaxonomic marker to identify funnel-web species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Hernández Duran
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, P. O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia
- Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Sciences, James Cook University, P. O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia
| | - Tasmin Lee Rymer
- College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, P. O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia
- Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Sciences, James Cook University, P. O. Box 6811, Cairns, QLD, 4870, Australia
| | - David Thomas Wilson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, 4878, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Affiliation(s)
- David Isaacs
- Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Australian funnel-web spiders evolved human-lethal δ-hexatoxins for defense against vertebrate predators. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:24920-24928. [PMID: 32958636 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2004516117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Australian funnel-web spiders are infamous for causing human fatalities, which are induced by venom peptides known as δ-hexatoxins (δ-HXTXs). Humans and other primates did not feature in the prey or predator spectrum during evolution of these spiders, and consequently the primate lethality of δ-HXTXs remains enigmatic. Funnel-web envenomations are mostly inflicted by male spiders that wander from their burrow in search of females during the mating season, which suggests a role for δ-HXTXs in self-defense since male spiders rarely feed during this period. Although 35 species of Australian funnel-web spiders have been described, only nine δ-HXTXs from four species have been characterized, resulting in a lack of understanding of the ecological roles and molecular evolution of δ-HXTXs. Here, by profiling venom-gland transcriptomes of 10 funnel-web species, we report 22 δ-HXTXs. Phylogenetic and evolutionary assessments reveal a remarkable sequence conservation of δ-HXTXs despite their deep evolutionary origin within funnel-web spiders, consistent with a defensive role. We demonstrate that δ-HXTX-Ar1a, the lethal toxin from the Sydney funnel-web spider Atrax robustus, induces pain in mice by inhibiting inactivation of voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels involved in nociceptive signaling. δ-HXTX-Ar1a also inhibited inactivation of cockroach NaV channels and was insecticidal to sheep blowflies. Considering their algogenic effects in mice, potent insecticidal effects, and high levels of sequence conservation, we propose that the δ-HXTXs were repurposed from an initial insecticidal predatory function to a role in defending against nonhuman vertebrate predators by male spiders, with their lethal effects on humans being an unfortunate evolutionary coincidence.
Collapse
|
10
|
Borrego J, Clement H, Corrales-García LL, Arenas I, Corzo G. Key amino acid residues involved in mammalian and insecticidal activities of Magi4 and Hv1b, cysteine-rich spider peptides from the δ-atracotoxin family. Amino Acids 2020; 52:465-475. [PMID: 32067123 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-020-02825-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
δ-Atracotoxins, also known as δ-hexatoxins, are spider neurotoxic peptides, lethal to both vertebrates and insects. Their mechanism of action involves the binding to of the S3/S4 loop of the domain IV of the voltage-gated sodium channels (Nav). Because of the chemical difficulties of synthesizing folded synthetic δ-atracotoxins correctly, here we explore an expression system that is designed to produce biologically active recombinant δ-atracotoxins, and a number of variants, in order to establish certain amino acids implicated in the pharmacophore of this lethal neurotoxin. In order to elucidate and verify which amino acid residues play a key role that is toxic to vertebrates and insects, amino acid substitutes were produced by aligning the primary structures of several lethal δ-atracotoxins with those of δ-atracotoxins-Hv1b; a member of the δ-atracotoxin family that has low impact on vertebrates and is not toxic to insects. Our findings corroborate that the substitutions of the amino acid residue Y22 from δ-atracotoxin-Mg1a (Magi4) to K22 in δ-atracotoxin-Hv1b reduces its mammalian activity. Moreover, the substitutions of the amino acid residues Y22 and N26 from δ-atracotoxin-Mg1a (Magi4) to K22 and N26 in δ-atracotoxin-Hv1b reduces its insecticidal activity. Also, the basic residues K4 and R5 are important for keeping such insecticidal activity. Structural models suggest that such residues are clustered onto two bioactive surfaces, which share similar areas, previously reported as bioactive surfaces for scorpion α-toxins. Furthermore, these bioactive surfaces were also found to be similar to those found in related spider and anemone toxins, which affect the same Nav receptor, indicating that these motifs are important not only for scorpion but may be also for animal toxins that affect the S3/S4 loop of the domain IV of the Nav.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Borrego
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, 62210, Cuernavaca Mor., México
| | - Herlinda Clement
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, 62210, Cuernavaca Mor., México
| | - Ligia-Luz Corrales-García
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, 62210, Cuernavaca Mor., México.,Departamento de Alimentos, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, AA 1226, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Iván Arenas
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, 62210, Cuernavaca Mor., México
| | - Gerardo Corzo
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, 62210, Cuernavaca Mor., México.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Ryan NM, James R, Downes MA, Isbister GK. Low-dose ketamine provides poor analgesia for pain in redback spider envenoming. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2019; 85:2423-2427. [PMID: 31269538 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.14052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Redback spider envenoming causes severe pain lasting several days. A recent clinical trial found that antivenom is not effective. We investigated ketamine for pain in redback spider envenoming. Ten adult patients with severe pain from redback spider envenoming were administered 15 mg intravenous ketamine after standard analgesia, then up to 4 oral doses of ketamine 25- 50 mg. Three patients had a clinically significant improvement in pain compared to baseline after intravenous ketamine. Five patients had a minimal decrease in pain and 2 had no improvement. Eight patients received oral ketamine: 4 doses in 5 and 2 doses in 3. At 24 h, 3/6 patients assessed had clinically significant improvement in pain and 4/5 patients assessed at 48 h, had clinically significant improvement in pain. Six patients reported side effects, including dissociation (4) and hallucinations (2). Five patients required rescue opioids and 2 were readmitted to hospital. We found that ketamine provided no additional pain relief in redback spider envenoming, compared to standard analgesia, and resulted in unacceptable adverse effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Ryan
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rosemary James
- Pharmacy Department, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael A Downes
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.,Department of Clinical Toxicology and Pharmacology, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geoffrey K Isbister
- Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Isbister GK, Warner G. Acute Myocardial Injury Caused by Sydney Funnel-web Spider (Atrax robustus) Envenoming. Anaesth Intensive Care 2019; 31:672-4. [PMID: 14719431 DOI: 10.1177/0310057x0303100612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A 67-year-old female suffered envenoming by a Sydney funnel-web spider (Atrax robustus ), complicated by ST elevation and elevated troponin levels consistent with an acute myocardial injury. She was treated primarily with funnel-web spider antivenom, admission to intensive care and initial respiratory support for acute pulmonary oedema. The mechanism by which funnel-web spider envenomation caused myocardial injury is unclear but follow-up nuclear studies in the patient demonstrated that she had minimal atherosclerotic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G K Isbister
- Newcastle Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Waratah, New South Wales
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Oranges T, Janowska A, Tonini A, Romanelli M, Dini V. Necrotoxic spider bite: a successful noninvasive wound management. Int J Dermatol 2018; 58:e128-e130. [DOI: 10.1111/ijd.14323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 11/04/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Oranges
- Department of Dermatology University of Pisa Pisa Italy
- Department of Health Sciences Anna Meyer Children's University Hospital University of Florence Florence Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bermúdez-Méndez E, Fuglsang-Madsen A, Føns S, Lomonte B, Gutiérrez JM, Laustsen AH. Innovative Immunization Strategies for Antivenom Development. Toxins (Basel) 2018; 10:toxins10110452. [PMID: 30400220 PMCID: PMC6265855 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10110452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakes, scorpions, and spiders are venomous animals that pose a threat to human health, and severe envenomings from the bites or stings of these animals must be treated with antivenom. Current antivenoms are based on plasma-derived immunoglobulins or immunoglobulin fragments from hyper-immunized animals. Although these medicines have been life-saving for more than 120 years, opportunities to improve envenoming therapy exist. In the later decades, new biotechnological tools have been applied with the aim of improving the efficacy, safety, and affordability of antivenoms. Within the avenues explored, novel immunization strategies using synthetic peptide epitopes, recombinant toxins (or toxoids), or DNA strings as immunogens have demonstrated potential for generating antivenoms with high therapeutic antibody titers and broad neutralizing capacity. Furthermore, these approaches circumvent the need for venom in the production process of antivenoms, thereby limiting some of the complications associated with animal captivity and venom collection. Finally, an important benefit of innovative immunization approaches is that they are often compatible with existing antivenom manufacturing setups. In this review, we compile all reported studies examining venom-independent innovative immunization strategies for antivenom development. In addition, a brief description of toxin families of medical relevance found in snake, scorpion, and spider venoms is presented, as well as how biochemical, bioinformatic, and omics tools could aid the development of next-generation antivenoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Albert Fuglsang-Madsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, DK-2200 København N, Denmark.
| | - Sofie Føns
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Bruno Lomonte
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica.
| | - José María Gutiérrez
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501-2060, Costa Rica.
| | - Andreas Hougaard Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Clinical consequences of toxic envenomation by spiders. Toxicon 2018; 152:65-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Revised: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
|
16
|
Hedin M, Derkarabetian S, Ramírez MJ, Vink C, Bond JE. Phylogenomic reclassification of the world's most venomous spiders (Mygalomorphae, Atracinae), with implications for venom evolution. Sci Rep 2018; 8:1636. [PMID: 29374214 PMCID: PMC5785998 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-19946-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we show that the most venomous spiders in the world are phylogenetically misplaced. Australian atracine spiders (family Hexathelidae), including the notorious Sydney funnel-web spider Atrax robustus, produce venom peptides that can kill people. Intriguingly, eastern Australian mouse spiders (family Actinopodidae) are also medically dangerous, possessing venom peptides strikingly similar to Atrax hexatoxins. Based on the standing morphology-based classification, mouse spiders are hypothesized distant relatives of atracines, having diverged over 200 million years ago. Using sequence-capture phylogenomics, we instead show convincingly that hexathelids are non-monophyletic, and that atracines are sister to actinopodids. Three new mygalomorph lineages are elevated to the family level, and a revised circumscription of Hexathelidae is presented. Re-writing this phylogenetic story has major implications for how we study venom evolution in these spiders, and potentially genuine consequences for antivenom development and bite treatment research. More generally, our research provides a textbook example of the applied importance of modern phylogenomic research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marshal Hedin
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, 92182-4614, USA.
| | - Shahan Derkarabetian
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, 92182-4614, USA
- Department of Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, California, 92521, USA
| | - Martín J Ramírez
- Division of Arachnology Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia" Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET) Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cor Vink
- Canterbury Museum Christchurch, Christchurch, 8013, New Zealand
| | - Jason E Bond
- Department of Biological Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Treatments for Latrodectism-A Systematic Review on Their Clinical Effectiveness. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:toxins9040148. [PMID: 28430165 PMCID: PMC5408222 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9040148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Latrodectism or envenomation by widow-spiders is common and clinically significant worldwide. Alpha-latrotoxin is the mammalian-specific toxin in the venom that results in toxic effects observed in humans. Symptoms may be incapacitating and include severe pain that can persist for days. The management of mild to moderate latrodectism is primarily supportive while severe cases have variously been treated with intravenous calcium, muscle relaxants, widow-spider antivenom and analgesic opioids. The object of this systematic review is to examine the literature on the clinical effectiveness of past and current treatments for latrodectism. MEDLINE, EMBASE and Google Scholar were searched from 1946 to December 2016 to identify clinical studies on the treatment of latrodectism. Studies older than 40 years and not in English were not reviewed. There were only two full-publications and one abstract of placebo-controlled randomised trials on antivenom use for latrodectism. Another two randomised comparative trials compared the route of administration of antivenom for latrodectism. There were fourteen case series (including two abstracts), fourteen case reports and one letter investigating drug treatments for latrodectism with the majority of these also including antivenom for severe latrodectism. Antivenom with opioid analgesia is often the major treatment reported for latrodectism however; recent high quality evidence has cast doubt on the clinical effectiveness of this combination and suggests that other treatments need to be investigated.
Collapse
|
18
|
Atakuziev BU, Wright CE, Graudins A, Nicholson GM, Winkel KD. Efficacy of Australian red-back spider (Latrodectus hasselti) antivenom in the treatment of clinical envenomation by the cupboard spider Steatoda capensis (Theridiidae). Toxicon 2014; 86:68-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2014.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
19
|
McCowan C, Garb JE. Recruitment and diversification of an ecdysozoan family of neuropeptide hormones for black widow spider venom expression. Gene 2014; 536:366-75. [PMID: 24316130 PMCID: PMC4172349 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.11.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 11/21/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Venoms have attracted enormous attention because of their potent physiological effects and dynamic evolution, including the convergent recruitment of homologous genes for venom expression. Here we provide novel evidence for the recruitment of genes from the Crustacean Hyperglycemic Hormone (CHH) and arthropod Ion Transport Peptide (ITP) superfamily for venom expression in black widow spiders. We characterized latrodectin peptides from venom gland cDNAs from the Western black widow spider (Latrodectus hesperus), the brown widow (Latrodectus geometricus) and cupboard spider (Steatoda grossa). Phylogenetic analyses of these sequences with homologs from other spider, scorpion and wasp venom cDNAs, as well as CHH/ITP neuropeptides, show latrodectins as derived members of the CHH/ITP superfamily. These analyses suggest that CHH/ITP homologs are more widespread in spider venoms, and were recruited for venom expression in two additional arthropod lineages. We also found that the latrodectin 2 gene and nearly all CHH/ITP genes include a phase 2 intron in the same position, supporting latrodectin's placement within the CHH/ITP superfamily. Evolutionary analyses of latrodectins suggest episodes of positive selection along some sequence lineages, and positive and purifying selection on specific codons, supporting its functional importance in widow venom. We consider how this improved understanding of latrodectin evolution informs functional hypotheses regarding its role in black widow venom as well as its potential convergent recruitment for venom expression across arthropods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caryn McCowan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA
| | - Jessica E Garb
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA 01854, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
Spiders are a source of intrigue and fear, and several myths exist about their medical effects. Many people believe that bites from various spider species cause necrotic ulceration, despite evidence that most suspected cases of necrotic arachnidism are caused by something other than a spider bite. Latrodectism and loxoscelism are the most important clinical syndromes resulting from spider bite. Latrodectism results from bites by widow spiders (Latrodectus spp) and causes local, regional, or generalised pain associated with non-specific symptoms and autonomic effects. Loxoscelism is caused by Loxosceles spp, and the cutaneous form manifests as pain and erythema that can develop into a necrotic ulcer. Systemic loxoscelism is characterised by intravascular haemolysis and renal failure on occasion. Other important spiders include the Australian funnel-web spider (Atrax spp and Hadronyche spp) and the armed spider (Phoneutria spp) from Brazil. Antivenoms are an important treatment for spider envenomation but have been less successful than have those for snake envenomation, with concerns about their effectiveness for both latrodectism and loxoscelism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey K Isbister
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia; Department of Clinical Toxicology and Pharmacology, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
| | - Hui Wen Fan
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Cultural, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Saez NJ, Senff S, Jensen JE, Er SY, Herzig V, Rash LD, King GF. Spider-venom peptides as therapeutics. Toxins (Basel) 2010; 2:2851-71. [PMID: 22069579 PMCID: PMC3153181 DOI: 10.3390/toxins2122851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 207] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2010] [Revised: 12/17/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Spiders are the most successful venomous animals and the most abundant terrestrial predators. Their remarkable success is due in large part to their ingenious exploitation of silk and the evolution of pharmacologically complex venoms that ensure rapid subjugation of prey. Most spider venoms are dominated by disulfide-rich peptides that typically have high affinity and specificity for particular subtypes of ion channels and receptors. Spider venoms are conservatively predicted to contain more than 10 million bioactive peptides, making them a valuable resource for drug discovery. Here we review the structure and pharmacology of spider-venom peptides that are being used as leads for the development of therapeutics against a wide range of pathophysiological conditions including cardiovascular disorders, chronic pain, inflammation, and erectile dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie J Saez
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
|
23
|
Afshari R, Khadem-Rezaiyan M, Balali-Mood M. Spider bite (latrodectism) in Mashhad, Iran. Hum Exp Toxicol 2009; 28:697-702. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327109350668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: Spider (Latrodectus tredecimguttatus) bites are relatively common in North East Iran. They induce morbidity and rarely mortality. We aimed to investigate clinical, electrocardiographic and para-clinical changes in patients with this bite. Methods: All consecutive patients admitted with suspected spider bites between September 2005 and September 2006 were studied prospectively. Results: Spider bites accounted for 56 cases (0.5% of all poisoning, 21% of all admitted envenomated). The patients’ mean (SD) age was 32 (16) years. The most common findings were pain (90%) mainly in their back (45%), stomach (35%), lower limbs (33%), upper limbs (19%) and chest (14%). Other clinical findings included were sweating (55%), chills (29%), dyspnea (25%), flushing (14%), spasm (12%), headache (12%), nausea (12%) and vertigo (12%). On electrocardiograph (ECG); ST segments were depressed in 25% of cases in at least two of the pre-cordial leads. Laboratory findings were in normal ranges. All the patients recovered following supportive and symptomatic treatment (no anti-toxin available in Iran), with a mean hospitalization period of 1.9 (1.3) days. Conclusions: Spider (L. Tredecimguttatus) bite is relatively common in Mashhad, which induces latrodectism with relatively different findings and cardiac toxicity. ECG monitoring should be considered, particularly when specific anti-toxin is not available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R. Afshari
- Medical Toxicology Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran,
| | - M. Khadem-Rezaiyan
- Medical Toxicology Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - M. Balali-Mood
- Medical Toxicology Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Isbister GK. Antivenom efficacy or effectiveness: the Australian experience. Toxicology 2009; 268:148-54. [PMID: 19782716 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2009.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2009] [Revised: 09/19/2009] [Accepted: 09/21/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Despite widespread use of antivenoms, many questions remain about their effectiveness in the clinical setting. The almost universal acceptance of their value is based mainly on in vitro studies, animal studies and human observational studies. Numerous examples exist where they demonstrate clear benefit, such as consumption coagulopathy in viper envenoming, prevention of neurotoxicity in Australasian elapid bites, systemic effects in scorpion and funnel-web spider envenoming. There are also concerns about the quality and efficacy of some antivenoms. However, it is important not to confuse the efficacy of antivenom, defined as its ability to bind and neutralise venom-mediated effects under ideal conditions, and the effectiveness of antivenom, defined as its ability to reverse or prevent envenoming in human cases. There are numerous potential reasons for antivenom failure in human envenoming, of which antivenom inefficacy is only one. Other important reasons include venom-mediated effects being irreversible, antivenom being unable to reach the site of toxin-mediated injury, or the rapidity of onset of venom-mediated effects. A number of recent studies in Australia bring into question the effectiveness of some antivenoms, including snake antivenom for coagulopathy, redback spider and box jellyfish antivenoms. Despite brown snake antivenom being able to neutralise venom induced clotting in vitro, use of the antivenom in human envenoming does not appear to change the time course of coagulopathy. However, it is important that apparent antivenom ineffectiveness in specific cases is correctly interpreted and does not lead to a universal belief that antivenom is ineffective. It should rather encourage further studies to investigate the underlying pathophysiology of envenoming, the pharmacokinetics of venoms and antivenoms, and ultimately the effectiveness of antivenom based on snake type, clinical effects and timing of administration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey K Isbister
- Department of Clinical Toxicology and Pharmacology, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Hughes SR, Dowd PF, Hector RE, Panavas T, Sterner DE, Qureshi N, Bischoff KM, Bang SS, Mertens JA, Johnson ET, Li XL, Jackson JS, Caughey RJ, Riedmuller SB, Bartolett S, Liu S, Rich JO, Farrelly PJ, Butt TR, Labaer J, Cotta MA. Lycotoxin-1 insecticidal peptide optimized by amino acid scanning mutagenesis and expressed as a coproduct in an ethanologenic Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain. J Pept Sci 2008; 14:1039-50. [PMID: 18465835 DOI: 10.1002/psc.1040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
New methods of safe biological pest control are required as a result of evolution of insect resistance to current biopesticides. Yeast strains being developed for conversion of cellulosic biomass to ethanol are potential host systems for expression of commercially valuable peptides, such as bioinsecticides, to increase the cost-effectiveness of the process. Spider venom is one of many potential sources of novel insect-specific peptide toxins. Libraries of mutants of the small amphipathic peptide lycotoxin-1 from the wolf spider were produced in high throughput using an automated integrated plasmid-based functional proteomic platform and screened for ability to kill fall armyworms, a significant cause of damage to corn (maize) and other crops in the United States. Using amino acid scanning mutagenesis (AASM) we generated a library of mutagenized lycotoxin-1 open reading frames (ORF) in a novel small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) yeast expression system. The SUMO technology enhanced expression and improved generation of active lycotoxins. The mutants were engineered to be expressed at high level inside the yeast and ingested by the insect before being cleaved to the active form (so-called Trojan horse strategy). These yeast strains expressing mutant toxin ORFs were also carrying the xylose isomerase (XI) gene and were capable of aerobic growth on xylose. Yeast cultures expressing the peptide toxins were prepared and fed to armyworm larvae to identify the mutant toxins with greatest lethality. The most lethal mutations appeared to increase the ability of the toxin alpha-helix to interact with insect cell membranes or to increase its pore-forming ability, leading to cell lysis. The toxin peptides have potential as value-added coproducts to increase the cost-effectiveness of fuel ethanol bioproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen R Hughes
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, Bioproducts and Biocatalysis Research Unit, Peoria, IL 61604, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Diochot S. Precious Natural Peptides from Spider Venoms: New Tools for Studying Potassium Channels. TOXIN REV 2008. [DOI: 10.1080/07313830500237059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
27
|
Abstract
Spiders have been incriminated as causes of human suffering for centuries, but few species worldwide cause medically significant envenomation. Widow spiders (Latrodectus spp.) occur worldwide and cause latrodectism, which is characterized by pain (local and generalized) associated with nonspecific systemic effects, diaphoresis, and less commonly other autonomic and neurological effects. Recluse spiders (Loxosceles spp.) are distributed mostly through the tropical and subtropical Western Hemisphere and can cause severe skin lesions and rarely systemic effects; most bites are unremarkable. Highly dangerous spiders in South America (armed spiders) and Australia (funnel-web spiders) cause rare but severe envenomation requiring medical intervention and sometimes antivenom. Most other spiders involved in verified bites cause minor, transient effects. Many spiders blamed for causing medical mischief have been elevated to medical significance via circumstantial evidence, poor reporting, and repetitive citation in the literature; several species have been shown to be harmless with more stringent scientific evidence involving verified bites in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard S Vetter
- Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Conduit R, Sasse A, Hodgson W, Trinder J, Veasey S, Tucker A. A neurotoxinological approach to the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea. Sleep Med Rev 2007; 11:361-75. [PMID: 17646118 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2007.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Current treatment approaches to the problem of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) have limitations. Specifically, invasive anatomical-based surgery and dental appliances typically do not alleviate obstruction at an acceptable rate, and compliance to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices is frequently suboptimal. Neurotoxinological treatment approaches are widespread in the field of medicine, but as yet have not been evaluated as a treatment for sleep-disordered breathing. In this review, it is argued that despite widespread recognition of the loss of upper airway (UA) muscular tone and/or reflexes in the expression of OSA, most treatment interventions to date have focused on anatomical principles alone. Several hypothesised neurotoxinological interventions aimed at either enhancing UA neuromuscular tone and/or reflexes are proposed, and some preliminary data is presented. Although in its early infancy, with considerable toxicity studies in animals yet to be done, a neurotoxinological approach to the problem of OSA holds promise as a future treatment, with the potential for both high effectiveness and patient compliance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Russell Conduit
- School of Psychology, Psychiatry & Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences, Monash University, 900 Dandenong Road Caulfield, Melbourne, Vic 3145, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
De Lima ME, Figueiredo SG, Pimenta AMC, Santos DM, Borges MH, Cordeiro MN, Richardson M, Oliveira LC, Stankiewicz M, Pelhate M. Peptides of arachnid venoms with insecticidal activity targeting sodium channels. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2007; 146:264-279. [PMID: 17218159 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2006.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2006] [Revised: 10/19/2006] [Accepted: 10/21/2006] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Arachnids have a venom apparatus and secrete a complex chemical mixture of low molecular mass organic molecules, enzymes and polypeptide neurotoxins designed to paralyze or kill their prey. Most of these toxins are specific for membrane voltage-gated sodium channels, although some may also target calcium or potassium channels and other membrane receptors. Scorpions and spiders have provided the greatest number of the neurotoxins studied so far, for which, a good number of primary and 3D structures have been obtained. Structural features, comprising a folding that determines a similar spatial distribution of charged and hydrophobic side chains of specific amino acids, are strikingly common among the toxins from spider and scorpion venoms. Such similarities are, in turn, the key feature to target and bind these proteins to ionic channels. The search for new insecticidal compounds, as well as the study of their modes of action, constitutes a current approach to rationally design novel insecticides. This goal tends to be more relevant if the resistance to the conventional chemical products is considered. A promising alternative seems to be the biotechnological approach using toxin-expressing recombinant baculovirus. Spider and scorpion toxins having insecticidal activity are reviewed here considering their structures, toxicities and action mechanisms in sodium channels of excitable membranes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M E De Lima
- Lab. Venenos e Toxinas Animais, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil; Núcleo de Biomoléculas - Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil.
| | - S G Figueiredo
- Centro de Ciências Fisiológicas, CBM - Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brasil
| | - A M C Pimenta
- Lab. Venenos e Toxinas Animais, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil; Núcleo de Biomoléculas - Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - D M Santos
- Lab. Venenos e Toxinas Animais, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil; Núcleo de Biomoléculas - Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - M H Borges
- Lab. Venenos e Toxinas Animais, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31.270-901, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil; Centro de Pesquisa Prof. Carlos R. Diniz, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - M N Cordeiro
- Centro de Pesquisa Prof. Carlos R. Diniz, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - M Richardson
- Centro de Pesquisa Prof. Carlos R. Diniz, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - L C Oliveira
- Departamento de Farmácia Bioquímica - Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, 39100-000, Diamantina, MG, Brasil
| | - M Stankiewicz
- Laboratory of Biophysics - Institute of General and Molecular Biology, N. Copernicus University, 87-100, Torun, Poland
| | - M Pelhate
- Lab. Récepteurs et Canaux Ioniques Membranaires, Université d'Angers, 49045, Angers, France
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Nicholson GM, Graudins A, Wilson HI, Little M, Broady KW. Arachnid toxinology in Australia: From clinical toxicology to potential applications. Toxicon 2006; 48:872-98. [PMID: 16934848 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2006.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The unique geographic isolation of Australia has resulted in the evolution of a distinctive range of Australian arachnid fauna. Through the pioneering work of a number of Australian arachnologists, toxinologists, and clinicians, the taxonomy and distribution of new species, the effective clinical treatment of envenomation, and the isolation and characterisation of the many distinctive neurotoxins, has been achieved. In particular, work has focussed on several Australian arachnids, including red-back and funnel-web spiders, paralysis ticks, and buthid scorpions that contain neurotoxins capable of causing death or serious systemic envenomation. In the case of spiders, species-specific antivenoms have been developed to treat envenomed patients that show considerable cross-reactivity. Both in vitro and clinical case studies have shown they are particularly efficacious in the treatment of envenomation by spiders even from unrelated families. Despite their notorious reputation, the high selectivity and potency of a unique range of toxins from the venom of Australian arachnids will make them invaluable molecular tools for studies of neurotransmitter release and vesicle exocytosis as well as ion channel structure and function. The venoms of funnel-web spiders, and more recently Australian scorpions, have also provided a previously untapped rich source of insect-selective neurotoxins for the future development of biopesticides and the characterisation of previously unvalidated insecticide targets. This review provides a historical viewpoint of the work of many toxinologists to isolate and characterise just some of the toxins produced by such a unique group of arachnids and examines the potential applications of these novel peptides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Graham M Nicholson
- Neurotoxin Research Group, Department of Medical & Molecular Biosciences, University of Technology, Sydney, P.O. Box 123, City Campus, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Site-3 toxins are small polypeptide venoms from scorpions, sea anemones, and spiders that bind with a high specificity to the extracellular surface of voltage-gated Na channels. After binding to a site near the S4 segment in domain IV the toxin causes disruption of the normal fast inactivation transition resulting in a marked prolongation of the action potentials of excitable tissues including those of cardiac and skeletal muscle and nerve. In this review we discuss the specific binding interactions between residues of the toxin and those of the Na channel, and the specific modification of Na channel kinetic behavior leading to a change in fast inactivation focusing on interactions deduced primarily from the study of sea anemone toxins and the cardiac Na channel (Na(V)1.5). We also illustrate the usefulness of site-3 toxins in the study of altered Na channel behavior by drug-modification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy A Hanck
- Department of Medicine, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Escoubas P, Sollod B, King GF. Venom landscapes: mining the complexity of spider venoms via a combined cDNA and mass spectrometric approach. Toxicon 2006; 47:650-63. [PMID: 16574177 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2006.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The complexity of Australian funnel-web spider venoms has been explored via the combined use of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry coupled with chromatographic separation and the analysis of venom-gland cDNA libraries. The results show that these venoms are far more complex than previously realized. We show that the venoms of Australian funnel-web spiders contain many hundreds of peptides that follow a bimodal distribution, with about 75% of the peptides having a mass of 3000-5000 Da. The mass spectral data were validated by matching the experimentally observed masses with those predicted from peptide sequences derived from analysis of venom-gland cDNA libraries. We show that multiple isoforms of these peptides are found in small chromatographic windows, which suggests that the wide distribution of close molecular weights among the chromatographic fractions probably reflects a diversity of structures and physicochemical properties. The combination of all predicted and measured parameters permits the interpretation of three-dimensional 'venom landscapes' derived from LC-MALDI analysis. We propose that these venom landscapes might have predictive value for the discovery of various groups of pharmacologically distinct toxins in complex venoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Escoubas
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire-CNRS, 660 Route des Lucioles, Valbonne 06560, France.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Li G, Lee D, Wang L, Khvotchev M, Chiew SK, Arunachalam L, Collins T, Feng ZP, Sugita S. N-terminal insertion and C-terminal ankyrin-like repeats of alpha-latrotoxin are critical for Ca2+-dependent exocytosis. J Neurosci 2006; 25:10188-97. [PMID: 16267226 PMCID: PMC6725796 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3560-05.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-latrotoxin, a potent stimulator of exocytosis from neurons and neuroendocrine cells, has been studied intensively, but the mechanisms of its actions are poorly understood. Here, we developed a new method to generate active recombinant alpha-latrotoxin and conducted a structure/function analysis of the toxin in stimulating Ca2+-dependent exocytosis. alpha-Latrotoxin consists of a conserved N-terminal domain and C-terminal ankyrin-like repeats. After cleavage of an N-terminally fused purification tag of glutathione S-transferase (GST), the recombinant toxin strongly stimulated exocytosis, whereas the GST-fused toxin was much less potent. The GST-fused toxin bound to the receptors [neurexin 1alpha; CL1 (CIRL/latrophilin 1)] as efficiently as did the GST-cleaved toxin but was much less effective in inserting into the plasma membrane and inducing cation conductance. The toxin with deletion of the last two ankyrin-like repeats still bound the receptors but could neither stimulate exocytosis nor induce cation conductance efficiently. The abilities of the mutated toxins to stimulate exocytosis correlated well with their abilities to induce cation conductance, but not their binding to the receptors. Our results indicate that (1) C-terminal ankyrin-like repeats and a free (unfused) N terminus are both required for the toxin to form pores, which is essential for Ca2+-dependent exocytosis, and (2) receptor binding alone is not sufficient to stimulate Ca2+-dependent exocytosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gang Li
- Division of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Toronto Western Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2S8, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Winkel KD, Tibballs J, Molenaar P, Lambert G, Coles P, Ross-Smith M, Wiltshire C, Fenner PJ, Gershwin LA, Hawdon GM, Wright CE, Angus JA. Cardiovascular actions of the venom from the Irukandji (Carukia barnesi) jellyfish: effects in human, rat and guinea-pig tissues in vitro and in pigs in vitro. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2005; 32:777-88. [PMID: 16173936 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2005.04258.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
1. We have investigated the cardiovascular pharmacology of the crude venom extract (CVE) from the potentially lethal, very small carybdeid jellyfish Carukia barnesi, in rat, guinea-pig and human isolated tissues and anaesthetized piglets. 2. In rat and guinea-pig isolated right atria, CVE (0.1-10 microg/mL) caused tachycardia in the presence of atropine (1 micromol/L), a response almost completely abolished by pretreatment with tetrodotoxin (TTX; 0.1 micromol/L). In paced left atria from guinea-pig or rat, CVE (0.1-3 microg/mL) caused a positive inotropic response in the presence of atropine (1 micromol/L). 3. In rat mesenteric small arteries, CVE (0.1-30 microg/mL) caused concentration-dependent contractions that were unaffected by 0.1 micromol/L TTX, 0.3 micromol/L prazosin or 0.1 micromol/L omega-conotoxin GVIA. 4. Neither the rat right atria tachycardic response nor the contraction of rat mesenteric arteries to CVE were affected by the presence of box jellyfish (Chironex fleckeri) antivenom (92.6 units/mL). 5. In human isolated driven right atrial trabeculae muscle strips, CVE (10 microg/mL) tended to cause an initial fall, followed by a more sustained increase, in contractile force. In the presence of atropine (1 micromol/L), CVE only caused a positive inotropic response. In separate experiments in the presence of propranolol (0.2 micromol/L), the negative inotropic effect of CVE was enhanced, whereas the positive inotropic response was markedly decreased. 6. In anaesthetized piglets, CVE (67 microg/kg, i.v.) caused sustained tachycardia and systemic and pulmonary hypertension. Venous blood samples demonstrated a marked elevation in circulating levels of noradrenaline and adrenaline. 7. We conclude that C. barnesi venom may contain a neural sodium channel activator (blocked by TTX) that, in isolated atrial tissue (and in vivo), causes the release of transmitter (and circulating) catecholamines. The venom may also contain a 'direct' vasoconstrictor component. These observations explain, at least in part, the clinical features of the potentially deadly Irukandji syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth D Winkel
- Department of Pharmacology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
Spider bite continues to be a controversial subject worldwide and attribution of clinical effects to different spiders is problematic because of poor case definition and paucity of clinical evidence. The effects of medically important spiders are sometimes underestimated and simultaneously there is misattribution of effects to harmless spider groups. The majority of suspected spider bites present as skin lesions or necrotic ulcers where the history of a spider bite must be confirmed. To be a definite spider bite, the patient must immediately observe the spider and there be evidence of the bite, such as pain. Important groups of spiders worldwide include the widow spiders (latrodectism), recluse spiders (loxoscelism) and some mygalomorph spiders including the Australian Funnel web spider. Most spiders only cause minor effects, including a large number of groups that have been implicated in necrotic arachnidism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey K Isbister
- Emergency Department, Newcastle Mater Misericordiae Hospital and the University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2298, Australia.
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
This article focuses on the medically relevant arachnid species found in North America and selected other arachnids from around the world. While it is largely still true that the geographic location of the envenomation assists in determining the species responsible, the booming trade in arachnids as exotic pets should prompt the clinician to inquire into this possibility. Expert advice should be sought in either case; species identification is critical in determining the need for and proper type of antivenom therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John R Saucier
- University of Vermont School of Medicine, Burlington 05405, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Tarantula venoms represent a cornucopia of novel ligands for a variety of cell receptors and ion channels. The diversity of peptide toxin pharmacology has been barely explored as indicated by pharmacological, toxicological and mass spectrometry investigations on more than 55 tarantula venoms. MALDI-TOF MS analysis reveals that the pharmacological diversity is based on relatively small size peptides, which seem to fall into a limited number of structural patterns. Properties and biological activities of the 33 known peptide toxins from tarantula venoms are described. Most known toxins conform to the Inhibitory Cystine Knot (ICK) motif, with differences in the length of intercysteine loops. Recently described peptides show that tarantula toxins can fold according to an elaboration of the Disulfide-Directed beta-Hairpin (DDH) motif which is also the canonical motif for the ICK fold. The ICK fold itself offers many variations leading to differing toxin properties. Examination of pharmacological data gives insights on the possible conserved site of action of toxins acting on voltage-gated ion channels and other toxins acting by a pore-blocking mechanism. Structure-activity data shows the versatility of the toxin scaffolds and the importance of surface features in the selectivity and specificity of these toxins. Tarantulas appear to be a good model for the discovery of novel compounds with important therapeutic potential, and for the study of the molecular evolution of peptide toxins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Escoubas
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire-CNRS, 660 Route des Lucioles, Valbonne 06560, France.
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Arthropods are the most diverse animal group on the planet. Their ability to inhabit a vast array of ecological niches has inevitably brought them into conflict with humans. Although only a small minority are classified as pest species, they nevertheless destroy about a quarter of the world's annual crop production and transmit an impressive array of pathogens of human and veterinary public health importance. Arthropod pests have been controlled almost exclusively with chemical insecticides since the introduction of DDT in the 1940s. However, the evolution of resistance to many insecticides, coupled with increased awareness of the potential environmental and human and animal health impacts of these chemicals, has stimulated the search for new insecticidal compounds, novel molecular targets, and alternative control methods. Spider venoms are complex chemical cocktails that have evolved to kill or paralyze arthropod prey, and they represent a largely untapped reservoir of insecticidal compounds. This review focuses on several families of invertebrate-specific peptide neurotoxins that were isolated from the venom of Australian funnel-web spiders. These peptides are promising insecticide leads because of their selectivity for invertebrates and activity on previously unvalidated targets. These toxins should facilitate the development of novel target-based screens for new insecticide leads, while their mapped pharmacophores will provide templates for rational design of mimetics that act at these target sites. Furthermore, genes encoding these toxins can be used to improve the efficacy of insect-specific viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hugo W Tedford
- Department of Molecular, Microbial, and Structural Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, 263 Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06032-3305, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Li D, Xiao Y, Hu W, Xie J, Bosmans F, Tytgat J, Liang S. Function and solution structure of hainantoxin-I, a novel insect sodium channel inhibitor from the Chinese bird spider Selenocosmia hainana. FEBS Lett 2004; 555:616-22. [PMID: 14675784 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-5793(03)01303-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hainantoxin-I is a novel peptide toxin, purified from the venom of the Chinese bird spider Selenocosmia hainana (=Ornithoctonus hainana). It includes 33 amino acid residues with a disulfide linkage of I-IV, II-V and III-VI, assigned by partial reduction and sequence analysis. Under two-electrode voltage-clamp conditions, hainantoxin-I can block rNa(v)1.2/beta(1) and the insect sodium channel para/tipE expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes with IC(50) values of 68+/-6 microM and 4.3+/-0.3 microM respectively. The three-dimensional solution structure of hainantoxin-I belongs to the inhibitor cystine knot structural family determined by two-dimensional (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. Structural comparison of hainantoxin-I with those of other toxins suggests that the combination of the charged residues and a vicinal hydrophobic patch should be responsible for ligand binding. This is the first report of an insect sodium channel blocker from spider venom and it provides useful information for the structure-function relationship studies of insect sodium channels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongling Li
- College of Life Sciences, Peking University, 100871, Beijing, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Isbister GK, Gray MR. Effects of Envenoming by Comb‐Footed Spiders of the GeneraSteatodaandAchaearanea(Family Theridiidae: Araneae) in Australia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003; 41:809-19. [PMID: 14677791 DOI: 10.1081/clt-120025346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The family Theridiidae (comb-footed spiders) contains the well-known and medically important widow spider group (Latrodectus spp.). Little is known about the effects of envenoming by other common members of this family. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to determine the clinical effects of bites by common theridiid spiders of the genera Steatoda and Achaearanea. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study of calls to Australian poison information centers and presentations to emergency departments. Twenty-eight persons with a definite bite by a spider of the family Theridiidae, excluding Latrodectus spp., were included where the spider was immediately collected and expertly identified from February 1999 to April 2002. RESULTS There were 23 bites by Steatoda spp. and five bites by Achaearanea spp. Steatoda bites occurred across Australia, throughout the year, and the majority during waking hours. Seventy-eight percent of bites occurred indoors and 48% while dressing indoors. Pain was universal and was severe in six (26%). Increasing pain in the first hour occurred in 30%, and the median duration of pain was 6 hr (interquartile range: 1-12 hr). Local or regional diaphoresis did not occur. Systemic effects occurred in 30% and included nausea, headache, lethargy, and malaise. The majority received no treatment: seven patients presented to a hospital (two patients received opiates for analgesia) and 1 patient inadvertently received intravenous redback spider (RBS) antivenom because the spider was initially misidentified as a RBS (Latrodectus). The pain and symptoms responded over 1 hr following antivenom administration. Bites by Achaeranea spp. caused moderate to severe persistent pain, but no systemic effects. CONCLUSIONS Steatoda spp. bites or "steatodism" may cause prolonged pain and systemic effects similar to Latrodectus bites, but less severe. In severe cases, the clinical effects were almost indistinguishable from Latrodectus, except diaphoresis was absent, and the spiders were often mistaken for Latrodectus. Intravenous RBS antivenom appears to be an effective treatment in isolated severe cases, consistent with in vitro work. Achaearanea bites caused pain similar to Latrodectus bites.
Collapse
|
41
|
Nakos G. In reply. Ann Emerg Med 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0196-0644(03)00521-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
42
|
Isbister GK, Gray MR. Latrodectism: a prospective cohort study of bites by formally identified redback spiders. Med J Aust 2003; 179:88-91. [PMID: 12864719 DOI: 10.5694/j.1326-5377.2003.tb05442.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2002] [Accepted: 03/31/2003] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the spectrum of severity and early diagnostic predictors of redback spider bites (Latrodectus hasselti), and to examine the effect of intramuscular redback antivenom. DESIGN AND SETTING Prospective cohort study of calls to New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australian poisons information centres and presentations to Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Royal Darwin Hospital emergency departments. PATIENTS 68 people with definite redback spider bites in which the spider was immediately collected and expertly identified (1 February 1999 to 30 April 2002). INTERVENTIONS Intramuscular redback spider antivenom in a smaller cohort of hospitalised patients. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Pain severity and duration, local effects and systemic envenomation (effects, prevalence, and persistence > 24 hours). RESULTS The median duration of effects was 48 hours (interquartile range, 24-96 hours). Pain occurred after all bites and was severe in 42 (62%). Forty-five patients (66%) had pain lasting longer than 24 hours, and 22 (32%) were unable to sleep because of pain. Systemic effects occurred in 24 (35%). Increasing pain over one hour occurred in 37 cases (54%), and local/regional diaphoresis in 23 (34%); both these features were highly predictive of L. hasselti bites compared with bites of other spiders. One of six patients treated with intramuscular antivenom (17%) had no pain at 24 hours, compared with two of 17 untreated patients (12%) (difference, 5%; 95% CI, -36% to +64%; P = 0.95). There was no difference in duration of systemic effects with antivenom administration. CONCLUSIONS Most redback spider bites cause severe and persistent effects. Intramuscular antivenom appears to be less effective than previously thought and its use by this route needs review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey K Isbister
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Newcastle, Level 5, Clinical Sciences Building, Newcastle Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Waratah, NSW 2298.
| | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Isbister GK, Graudins A, White J, Warrell D. Antivenom treatment in arachnidism. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY. CLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 2003; 41:291-300. [PMID: 12807312 DOI: 10.1081/clt-120021114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Envenomation by arachnids causes significant medical illness worldwide. Scorpion sting is the most important arachnid envenomation causing adult morbidity and pediatric mortality. Important groups of spiders include the widow spiders (Latrodectus spp.), the recluse spiders (Loxosceles spp.), and two spiders confined to single countries: the Australian funnel web spider (Atrax and Hadronyche spp.) and the armed spider (Phoneutria spp.) from Brazil. There are four widow spider antivenoms available, including the Australian redback spider antivenom and the American black widow antivenom. Despite good in vitro animal work demonstrating effective neutralization with these antivenoms, and cross-reactivity between many species, there continues to be a reluctance to use them in some countries. They are both associated with a relatively low rate of allergic reactions. Redback antivenom is routinely used by the intramuscular route, which may not be as effective as intravenous use based on clinical experience and animal studies. Antivenoms are available for Loxosceles spp., but there is little evidence to support their effectiveness, particularly against local effects. The Australian funnel web spider causes severe neurotoxic envenomation, and antivenom appears to be effective in reported cases. An antivenom exists for the Brazilian armed spider, but is used in only a minority of cases. Many scorpion antivenoms exist worldwide, but there remains significant controversy regarding their efficacy. Animal and human venom level studies demonstrate neutralization of circulating venom in systemic envenomation. Clinical experience in countries where antivenom has been introduced suggests it has reduced pediatric mortality. However, three controlled trials demonstrated that antivenom was not effective, but these included few severe cases. Until controlled trials of antivenom in systemically envenomated patients are undertaken, antivenom use appears justified in severe envenomation. Although envenomation from arthropods is common, no antivenoms exist for these, excepting Lonomia caterpillars in South America, and Ixodes paralysis ticks in Australia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey K Isbister
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Newcastle and Newcastle Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|