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Corrias G, Lai E, Ziranu P, Mariani S, Donisi C, Liscia N, Saba G, Pretta A, Persano M, Fanni D, Spanu D, Balconi F, Loi F, Deidda S, Restivo A, Pusceddu V, Puzzoni M, Solinas C, Massa E, Madeddu C, Gerosa C, Zorcolo L, Faa G, Saba L, Scartozzi M. Prediction of Response to Anti-Angiogenic Treatment for Advanced Colorectal Cancer Patients: From Biological Factors to Functional Imaging. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1364. [PMID: 38611042 PMCID: PMC11011199 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading tumor worldwide. In CRC, the angiogenic pathway plays a crucial role in cancer development and the process of metastasis. Thus, anti-angiogenic drugs represent a milestone for metastatic CRC (mCRC) treatment and lead to significant improvement of clinical outcomes. Nevertheless, not all patients respond to treatment and some develop resistance. Therefore, the identification of predictive factors able to predict response to angiogenesis pathway blockade is required in order to identify the best candidates to receive these agents. Unfortunately, no predictive biomarkers have been prospectively validated to date. Over the years, research has focused on biologic factors such as genetic polymorphisms, circulating biomarkers, circulating tumor cells (CTCs), circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and microRNA. Moreover, research efforts have evaluated the potential correlation of molecular biomarkers with imaging techniques used for tumor assessment as well as the application of imaging tools in clinical practice. In addition to functional imaging, radiomics, a relatively newer technique, shows real promise in the setting of correlating molecular medicine to radiological phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Corrias
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Eleonora Lai
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Pina Ziranu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Stefano Mariani
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Clelia Donisi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Nicole Liscia
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, 20132 Milan, Italy;
| | - Giorgio Saba
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Andrea Pretta
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Mara Persano
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Daniela Fanni
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (D.F.); (C.G.); (G.F.)
| | - Dario Spanu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Francesca Balconi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Francesco Loi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Simona Deidda
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, A.O.U. Cagliari, Department of Surgical Science, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (S.D.); (A.R.); (L.Z.)
| | - Angelo Restivo
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, A.O.U. Cagliari, Department of Surgical Science, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (S.D.); (A.R.); (L.Z.)
| | - Valeria Pusceddu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Marco Puzzoni
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Cinzia Solinas
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Elena Massa
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Clelia Madeddu
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
| | - Clara Gerosa
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (D.F.); (C.G.); (G.F.)
| | - Luigi Zorcolo
- Colorectal Surgery Unit, A.O.U. Cagliari, Department of Surgical Science, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (S.D.); (A.R.); (L.Z.)
| | - Gavino Faa
- Division of Pathology, Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, AOU Cagliari, University of Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy; (D.F.); (C.G.); (G.F.)
| | - Luca Saba
- Department of Radiology, University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy;
| | - Mario Scartozzi
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital and University of Cagliari, 09042 Cagliari, Italy; (E.L.); (P.Z.); (S.M.); (C.D.); (G.S.); (A.P.); (M.P.); (D.S.); (F.B.); (F.L.); (V.P.); (M.P.); (C.S.); (E.M.); (C.M.); (M.S.)
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Supe S, Dighe V, Upadhya A, Singh K. Analysis of RNA Interference Targeted Against Human Antigen R (HuR) to Reduce Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Protein Expression in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells. Mol Biotechnol 2023:10.1007/s12033-023-00913-w. [PMID: 37856012 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-023-00913-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
VEGF-A or vascular endothelial growth factor-A is an important factor in enabling neovascularization and angiogenesis. VEGF-A is regulated transcriptionally as well as post transcriptionally. Human antigen R (HuR) belonging to the embryonic lethal abnormal vision (ELAV) family is a key regulator promoting stabilization of VEGF-A mRNA. In this research we investigate, whether HuR targeted RNA interference would enable the reduction of the VEGF-A protein in human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19) in-vitro, in normoxic conditions. Three siRNA molecules with sequences complementary to three regions of the HuR mRNA were designed. The three designed siRNA molecules were individually transfected in ARPE-19 cells using Lipofectamine™2000 reagent. Post-transfection (24 h, 48 h, 72 h), downregulation of HuR mRNA was estimated by real-time polymerase reaction, while HuR protein and VEGF-A protein levels were semi-quantitatively determined by western blotting techniques. VEGF-A protein levels were additionally quantified using ELISA techniques. All experiments were done in triplicate. The designed siRNA could successfully downregulate HuR mRNA with concomitant decreases in HuR and VEGF-A protein. The study reveals that HuR downregulation can prominently downregulate VEGF-A, making the protein a target for therapy against pathological angiogenesis conditions such as diabetic retinopathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibani Supe
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400056, India
| | - Vikas Dighe
- National Centre for Preclinical Reproductive and Genetic Toxicology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, J.M. Street, Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400012, India
| | - Archana Upadhya
- Maharashtra Educational Society's H. K. College of Pharmacy, H. K. College Campus, Oshiwara, Jogeshwari (W), Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400102, India.
| | - Kavita Singh
- Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, SVKM'S NMIMS, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400056, India.
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Messadi E. Snake Venom Components as Therapeutic Drugs in Ischemic Heart Disease. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1539. [PMID: 37892221 PMCID: PMC10605524 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Ischemic heart disease (IHD), especially myocardial infarction (MI), is a leading cause of death worldwide. Although coronary reperfusion is the most straightforward treatment for limiting the MI size, it has nevertheless been shown to exacerbate ischemic myocardial injury. Therefore, identifying and developing therapeutic strategies to treat IHD is a major medical challenge. Snake venoms contain biologically active proteins and peptides that are of major interest for pharmacological applications in the cardiovascular system (CVS). This has led to their use for the development and design of new drugs, such as the first-in-class angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor captopril, developed from a peptide present in Bothrops jararaca snake venom. This review discusses the potential usefulness of snake venom toxins for developing effective treatments against IHD and related diseases such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. It describes their biological effects at the molecular scale, their mechanisms of action according to their different pharmacological properties, as well as their subsequent molecular pathways and therapeutic targets. The molecules reported here have either been approved for human medical use and are currently available on the drug market or are still in the clinical or preclinical developmental stages. The information summarized here may be useful in providing insights into the development of future snake venom-derived drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erij Messadi
- Plateforme de Physiologie et Physiopathologie Cardiovasculaires (P2C), Laboratoire des Biomolécules, Venins et Applications Théranostiques (LR20IPT01), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
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Rosales-García RA, Rautsaw RM, Hofmann EP, Grünwald CI, Franz-Chavez H, Ahumada-Carrillo IT, Ramirez-Chaparro R, de la Torre-Loranca MA, Strickland JL, Mason AJ, Holding ML, Borja M, Castañeda-Gaytan G, Myers EA, Sasa M, Rokyta DR, Parkinson CL. Sequence Divergence in Venom Genes Within and Between Montane Pitviper (Viperidae: Crotalinae: Cerrophidion) Species is Driven by Mutation-Drift Equilibrium. J Mol Evol 2023; 91:514-535. [PMID: 37269364 PMCID: PMC10995822 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-023-10115-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Snake venom can vary both among and within species. While some groups of New World pitvipers-such as rattlesnakes-have been well studied, very little is known about the venom of montane pitvipers (Cerrophidion) found across the Mesoamerican highlands. Compared to most well-studied rattlesnakes, which are widely distributed, the isolated montane populations of Cerrophidion may facilitate unique evolutionary trajectories and venom differentiation. Here, we describe the venom gland transcriptomes for populations of C. petlalcalensis, C. tzotzilorum, and C. godmani from Mexico, and a single individual of C. sasai from Costa Rica. We explore gene expression variation in Cerrophidion and sequence evolution of toxins within C. godmani specifically. Cerrophidion venom gland transcriptomes are composed primarily of snake venom metalloproteinases, phospholipase A[Formula: see text]s (PLA[Formula: see text]s), and snake venom serine proteases. Cerrophidion petlalcalensis shows little intraspecific variation; however, C. godmani and C. tzotzilorum differ significantly between geographically isolated populations. Interestingly, intraspecific variation was mostly attributed to expression variation as we did not detect signals of selection within C. godmani toxins. Additionally, we found PLA[Formula: see text]-like myotoxins in all species except C. petlalcalensis, and crotoxin-like PLA[Formula: see text]s in the southern population of C. godmani. Our results demonstrate significant intraspecific venom variation within C. godmani and C. tzotzilorum. The toxins of C. godmani show little evidence of directional selection where variation in toxin sequence is consistent with evolution under a model of mutation-drift equilibrium. Cerrophidion godmani individuals from the southern population may exhibit neurotoxic venom activity given the presence of crotoxin-like PLA[Formula: see text]s; however, further research is required to confirm this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rhett M Rautsaw
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 190 Collings St., Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Erich P Hofmann
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 190 Collings St., Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- Science Department, Cape Fear Community College, Wilmington, NC, 28401, USA
| | | | - Hector Franz-Chavez
- Herp.mx A.C., Colima, Mexico
- Biodiversa A. C., Chapala, Jalisco, 45900, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Jason L Strickland
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 190 Collings St., Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- Department of Biology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, 36688, USA
| | - Andrew J Mason
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 190 Collings St., Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- Department of Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
| | - Matthew L Holding
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 190 Collings St., Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Miguel Borja
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universdad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Gómez Palacio, Durango, 35010, Mexico
| | - Gamaliel Castañeda-Gaytan
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universdad Juárez del Estado de Durango, Gómez Palacio, Durango, 35010, Mexico
| | - Edward A Myers
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 190 Collings St., Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - Mahmood Sasa
- Centro Investigaciones en Biodiversidad y Ecología Tropical and Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Darin R Rokyta
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306, USA
| | - Christopher L Parkinson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, 190 Collings St., Clemson, SC, 29634, USA.
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Rauniyar K, Bokharaie H, Jeltsch M. Expansion and collapse of VEGF diversity in major clades of the animal kingdom. Angiogenesis 2023; 26:437-461. [PMID: 37017884 PMCID: PMC10328876 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-023-09874-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Together with the platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs), the vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) form the PDGF/VEGF subgroup among cystine knot growth factors. The evolutionary relationships within this subgroup have not been examined thoroughly to date. Here, we comprehensively analyze the PDGF/VEGF growth factors throughout all animal phyla and propose a phylogenetic tree. Vertebrate whole-genome duplications play a role in expanding PDGF/VEGF diversity, but several limited duplications are necessary to account for the temporal pattern of emergence. The phylogenetically oldest PDGF/VEGF-like growth factor likely featured a C-terminus with a BR3P signature, a hallmark of the modern-day lymphangiogenic growth factors VEGF-C and VEGF-D. Some younger VEGF genes, such as VEGFB and PGF, appeared completely absent in important vertebrate clades such as birds and amphibia, respectively. In contrast, individual PDGF/VEGF gene duplications frequently occurred in fish on top of the known fish-specific whole-genome duplications. The lack of precise counterparts for human genes poses limitations but also offers opportunities for research using organisms that diverge considerably from humans. Sources for the graphical abstract: 326 MYA and older [1]; 72-240 MYA [2]; 235-65 MYA [3].
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Affiliation(s)
- Khushbu Rauniyar
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Biocenter 2, (Viikinkaari 5E), P.O. Box. 56, 00790, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Honey Bokharaie
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Biocenter 2, (Viikinkaari 5E), P.O. Box. 56, 00790, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Michael Jeltsch
- Drug Research Program, Division of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Biocenter 2, (Viikinkaari 5E), P.O. Box. 56, 00790, Helsinki, Finland.
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
- Wihuri Research Institute, Helsinki, Finland.
- Helsinki One Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
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Ferreira I, Oliveira I, Bordon K, Reis M, Wiezel G, Sanchez C, Santos L, Santos-Filho N, Pucca M, Antunes L, Lopes D, Arantes E. Beyond Angiogenesis: The Multitasking Approach of the First PEGylated Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor ( CdtVEGF) from Brazilian Rattlesnake Venom. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:483. [PMID: 37624240 PMCID: PMC10467076 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15080483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
A pioneering study regarding the isolation, biochemical evaluation, functional assays and first PEGylation report of a novel vascular endothelial growth factor from Crotalus durissus terrificus venom (CdtVEGF and PEG-CdtVEGF). CdtVEGF was isolated from crude venom using two different chromatographic steps, representing 2% of soluble venom proteins. Its primary sequence was determined using mass spectrometry analysis, and the molecule demonstrated no affinity to heparin. The Brazilian crotalid antivenom recognized CdtVEGF. Both native and PEGylated CdtVEGF were able to induce new vessel formation and migration, and to increase the metabolic activity of human umbilical endothelial vascular cells (HUVEC), resulting in better wound closure (~50% within 12 h) using the native form. CdtVEGF induced leukocyte recruitment to the peritoneal cavity in mice, with a predominance of neutrophil influx followed by lymphocytes, demonstrating the ability to activate the immune system. The molecule also induced a dose-dependent increase in vascular permeability, and PEG-CdtVEGF showed less in vivo inflammatory activity than CdtVEGF. By unraveling the intricate properties of minor components of snake venom like svVEGF, this study illuminates the indispensable significance of exploring these molecular tools to unveil physiological and pathological processes, elucidates the mechanisms of snakebite envenomings, and could possibly be used to design a therapeutic drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabela Ferreira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Isadora Oliveira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Karla Bordon
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Mouzarllem Reis
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Gisele Wiezel
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Caroline Sanchez
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Luísa Santos
- Institute Multidisciplinary in Health, Federal University of Bahia, Vitoria da Conquista 40110-909, BA, Brazil
| | - Norival Santos-Filho
- Department of Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry, Chemistry Institute, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-901, SP, Brazil
| | - Manuela Pucca
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Sao Paulo State University (UNESP) Araraquara 14800-901, SP, Brazil
| | - Lusânia Antunes
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Daiana Lopes
- Institute Multidisciplinary in Health, Federal University of Bahia, Vitoria da Conquista 40110-909, BA, Brazil
| | - Eliane Arantes
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto 14040-903, SP, Brazil
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Tse TC, Tsai IH, Chan YY, Tsai TS. Venom Proteomics of Trimeresurus gracilis, a Taiwan-Endemic Pitviper, and Comparison of Its Venom Proteome and VEGF and CRISP Sequences with Those of the Most Related Species. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:408. [PMID: 37505677 PMCID: PMC10467061 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15070408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Trimeresurus gracilis is an endemic alpine pitviper in Taiwan with controversial phylogeny, and its venom proteome remains unknown. In this study, we conducted a proteomic analysis of T. gracilis venom using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and identified 155 toxin proteoforms that belong to 13 viperid venom toxin families. By searching the sequences of trypsin-digested peptides of the separated HPLC fractions against the NCBI database, T. gracilis venom was found to contain 40.3% metalloproteases (SVMPs), 15.3% serine proteases, 6.6% phospholipases A2, 5.0% L-amino acid oxidase, 4.6% Cys-rich secretory proteins (CRISPs), 3.2% disintegrins, 2.9% vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs), 1.9% C-type lectin-like proteins, and 20.2% of minor toxins, nontoxins, and unidentified peptides or compounds. Sixteen of these proteoforms matched the toxins whose full amino-acid sequences have been deduced from T. gracilis venom gland cDNA sequences. The hemorrhagic venom of T. gracilis appears to be especially rich in PI-class SVMPs and lacks basic phospholipase A2. We also cloned and sequenced the cDNAs encoding two CRISP and three VEGF variants from T. gracilis venom glands. Sequence alignments and comparison revealed that the PI-SVMP, kallikrein-like proteases, CRISPs, and VEGF-F of T. gracilis and Ovophis okinavensis are structurally most similar, consistent with their close phylogenetic relationship. However, the expression levels of some of their toxins were rather different, possibly due to their distinct ecological and prey conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsz-Chun Tse
- Institute of Wildlife Conservation, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 912301, Taiwan;
| | - Inn-Ho Tsai
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan;
- Institute of Biochemical Sciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106319, Taiwan
| | - Yuen-Ying Chan
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 912301, Taiwan;
| | - Tein-Shun Tsai
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Pingtung 912301, Taiwan;
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Yee KT, Macrander J, Vasieva O, Rojnuckarin P. Exploring Toxin Genes of Myanmar Russell's Viper, Daboia siamensis, through De Novo Venom Gland Transcriptomics. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15050309. [PMID: 37235344 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15050309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Russell's viper (Daboia siamensis) is a medically important venomous snake in Myanmar. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) shows potential to investigate the venom complexity, giving deeper insights into snakebite pathogenesis and possible drug discoveries. mRNA from venom gland tissue was extracted and sequenced on the Illumina HiSeq platform and de novo assembled by Trinity. The candidate toxin genes were identified via the Venomix pipeline. Protein sequences of identified toxin candidates were compared with the previously described venom proteins using Clustal Omega to assess the positional homology among candidates. Candidate venom transcripts were classified into 23 toxin gene families including 53 unique full-length transcripts. C-type lectins (CTLs) were the most highly expressed, followed by Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors, disintegrins and Bradykinin potentiating peptide/C-type natriuretic peptide (BPP-CNP) precursors. Phospholipase A2, snake venom serine proteases, metalloproteinases, vascular endothelial growth factors, L-amino acid oxidases and cysteine-rich secretory proteins were under-represented within the transcriptomes. Several isoforms of transcripts which had not been previously reported in this species were discovered and described. Myanmar Russell's viper venom glands displayed unique sex-specific transcriptome profiles which were correlated with clinical manifestation of envenoming. Our results show that NGS is a useful tool to comprehensively examine understudied venomous snakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khin Than Yee
- Department of Medical Research, Ministry of Health, Yangon 11191, Myanmar
| | - Jason Macrander
- Department of Biology, Florida Southern College, Lakeland, FL 33801, USA
| | - Olga Vasieva
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK
- BioSynthetic Machines, Inc., Chicago, IL 60062, USA
| | - Ponlapat Rojnuckarin
- Excellence Center in Translational Hematology, Division of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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9
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Godoi KSD, Guidolin FR, Portaro FCV, Spencer PJ, da Silva WD. Anti-Metalloproteases: Production and Characterization of Polyclonal IgG Anti-F2 Fraction Antibodies Purified from the Venom of the Snake Bitis arietans. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15040264. [PMID: 37104202 PMCID: PMC10145261 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15040264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Bitis arietans is a medically important snake found in Sub-Saharan Africa. The envenomation is characterized by local and systemic effects, and the lack of antivenoms aggravates the treatment. This study aimed to identify venom toxins and develop antitoxins. The F2 fraction obtained from Bitis arietans venom (BaV) demonstrated the presence of several proteins in its composition, including metalloproteases. Titration assays carried out together with the immunization of mice demonstrated the development of anti-F2 fraction antibodies by the animals. The determination of the affinity of antibodies against different Bitis venoms was evaluated, revealing that only BaV had peptides recognized by anti-F2 fraction antibodies. In vivo analyses demonstrated the hemorrhagic capacity of the venom and the effectiveness of the antibodies in inhibiting up to 80% of the hemorrhage and 0% of the lethality caused by BaV. Together, the data indicate: (1) the prevalence of proteins that influence hemostasis and envenomation; (2) the effectiveness of antibodies in inhibiting specific activities of BaV; and (3) isolation and characterization of toxins can become crucial steps in the development of new alternative treatments. Thus, the results obtained help in understanding the envenoming mechanism and may be useful for the study of new complementary therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Patrick Jack Spencer
- Biotechnology Center, Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
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10
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Arrigo A, Aragona E, Bandello F. VEGF-targeting drugs for the treatment of retinal neovascularization in diabetic retinopathy. Ann Med 2022; 54:1089-1111. [PMID: 35451900 PMCID: PMC9891228 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2022.2064541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the most common microangiopathic complication of diabetes mellitus, representing a major cause of visual impairment in developed countries. Proliferative DR (PDR) represents the last stage of this extremely complex retinal disease, characterized by the development of neovascularization induced by the abnormal production and release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The term VEGF includes different isoforms; VEGF-A represents one of the most important pathogenic factors of DR. Anti-VEGF intravitreal therapies radically changed the outcome of DR, due to combined anti-angiogenic and anti-edematous activities. Nowadays, several anti-VEGF molecules exist, characterized by different pharmacological features and duration. With respect to PDR, although anti-VEGF treatments represented a fundamental step forward in the management of this dramatic complication, a big debate is present in the literature regarding the role of anti-VEGF as substitute of panretinal photocoagulation or if these two approaches may be used in combination. In the present review, we provided an update on VEGF isoforms and their role in DR pathogenesis, on current anti-VEGF molecules and emerging new drugs, and on the current management strategies of PDR. There is an overall agreement regarding the relative advantage provided by anti-VEGF, especially looking at the management of PDR patients requiring vitrectomy, with respect to laser. Based on the current data, laser approaches might be avoided when a perfectly planned anti-VEGF therapeutic strategy can be adopted. Conversely, laser treatment may have a role for those patients unable to guarantee enough compliance to anti-VEGF injections.Key messagesVEGF increased production, stimulated by retinal hypoperfusion and ischaemia, is a major pathogenic factor of neovascular complication onset in diabetic retinopathy and of DR stages progression.Nowadays, several anti-VEGF molecules are available in clinical practice and other molecules are currently under investigation. Each anti-VEGF molecule is characterized by different targets and may interact with multiple biochemical pathways within the eye.All the data agreed in considering anti-VEGF molecules as a first line choice for the management of diabetic retinopathy. Laser treatments may have a role in selected advanced cases and for those patients unable to guarantee enough compliance to intravitreal treatments schemes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Arrigo
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuela Aragona
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Bandello
- IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
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11
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Ferrarini MG, Dell’Aglio E, Vallier A, Balmand S, Vincent-Monégat C, Hughes S, Gillet B, Parisot N, Zaidman-Rémy A, Vieira C, Heddi A, Rebollo R. Efficient compartmentalization in insect bacteriomes protects symbiotic bacteria from host immune system. MICROBIOME 2022; 10:156. [PMID: 36163269 PMCID: PMC9513942 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-022-01334-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many insects house symbiotic intracellular bacteria (endosymbionts) that provide them with essential nutrients, thus promoting the usage of nutrient-poor habitats. Endosymbiont seclusion within host specialized cells, called bacteriocytes, often organized in a dedicated organ, the bacteriome, is crucial in protecting them from host immune defenses while avoiding chronic host immune activation. Previous evidence obtained in the cereal weevil Sitophilus oryzae has shown that bacteriome immunity is activated against invading pathogens, suggesting endosymbionts might be targeted and impacted by immune effectors during an immune challenge. To pinpoint any molecular determinants associated with such challenges, we conducted a dual transcriptomic analysis of S. oryzae's bacteriome subjected to immunogenic peptidoglycan fragments. RESULTS We show that upon immune challenge, the bacteriome actively participates in the innate immune response via induction of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Surprisingly, endosymbionts do not undergo any transcriptomic changes, indicating that this potential threat goes unnoticed. Immunohistochemistry showed that TCT-induced AMPs are located outside the bacteriome, excluding direct contact with the endosymbionts. CONCLUSIONS This work demonstrates that endosymbiont protection during an immune challenge is mainly achieved by efficient confinement within bacteriomes, which provides physical separation between host systemic response and endosymbionts. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Galvão Ferrarini
- Univ Lyon, INRAE, INSA-Lyon, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, UMR5558, Université Lyon 1, Université Lyon, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Elisa Dell’Aglio
- Univ Lyon, INRAE, INSA-Lyon, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Agnès Vallier
- Univ Lyon, INRAE, INSA-Lyon, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Séverine Balmand
- Univ Lyon, INRAE, INSA-Lyon, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | | | - Sandrine Hughes
- UMR5242, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon (IGFL), Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 (UCBL), Université de Lyon (Univ Lyon), F-69007 Lyon, France
| | - Benjamin Gillet
- UMR5242, Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon (IGFL), Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 (UCBL), Université de Lyon (Univ Lyon), F-69007 Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas Parisot
- Univ Lyon, INSA-Lyon, INRAE, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Anna Zaidman-Rémy
- Univ Lyon, INSA-Lyon, INRAE, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Cristina Vieira
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, UMR5558, Université Lyon 1, Université Lyon, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Abdelaziz Heddi
- Univ Lyon, INSA-Lyon, INRAE, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
| | - Rita Rebollo
- Univ Lyon, INRAE, INSA-Lyon, BF2I, UMR 203, 69621 Villeurbanne, France
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12
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Identification of Daboia siamensis venome using integrated multi-omics data. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13140. [PMID: 35907887 PMCID: PMC9338987 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17300-1] [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: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite, classified by World Health Organization as a neglected tropical disease, causes more than 100,000 deaths and 2 million injuries per year. Currently, available antivenoms do not bind with strong specificity to target toxins, which means that severe complications can still occur despite treatment. Moreover, the cost of antivenom is expensive. Knowledge of venom compositions is fundamental for producing a specific antivenom that has high effectiveness, low side effects, and ease of manufacture. With advances in mass spectrometry techniques, venom proteomes can now be analyzed in great depth at high efficiency. However, these techniques require genomic and transcriptomic data for interpreting mass spectrometry data. This study aims to establish and incorporate genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics data to study venomics of a venomous snake, Daboia siamensis. Multiple proteins that have not been reported as venom components of this snake such as hyaluronidase-1, phospholipase B, and waprin were discovered. Thus, multi-omics data are advantageous for venomics studies. These findings will be valuable not only for antivenom production but also for the development of novel therapeutics.
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13
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Ferreira IG, Pucca MB, Cardoso IA, de Castro Figueiredo Bordon K, Wiezel GA, Amorim FG, Rodrigues RS, de Melo Rodrigues V, Lucia de Campos Brites V, Rosa JC, Lopes DS, Arantes EC. Insights into structure and function of CdcVEGFs, the vascular endothelial growth factor from Crotalus durissus collilineatus snake venom. Biochimie 2022; 200:68-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2022.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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14
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Therapeutic peptides: current applications and future directions. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:48. [PMID: 35165272 PMCID: PMC8844085 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00904-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 425] [Impact Index Per Article: 212.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptide drug development has made great progress in the last decade thanks to new production, modification, and analytic technologies. Peptides have been produced and modified using both chemical and biological methods, together with novel design and delivery strategies, which have helped to overcome the inherent drawbacks of peptides and have allowed the continued advancement of this field. A wide variety of natural and modified peptides have been obtained and studied, covering multiple therapeutic areas. This review summarizes the efforts and achievements in peptide drug discovery, production, and modification, and their current applications. We also discuss the value and challenges associated with future developments in therapeutic peptides.
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15
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Ebrahimi M, Balibegloo M, Rezaei N. Monoclonal antibodies in diabetic retinopathy. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2022; 18:163-178. [PMID: 35105268 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2022.2037420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Diabetic retinopathy (DR), as one of the main complications of diabetes, is among the leading causes of blindness and visual impairment worldwide. AREAS COVERED Current clinical therapies include photocoagulation, vitrectomy, and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies. Bevacizumab and ranibizumab are two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) inhibiting angiogenesis. Intravitreal ranibizumab and bevacizumab can decrease the rate of blindness and retinal thickness, and improve visual acuity whether as monotherapy or combined with other treatments. They can increase the efficacy of other treatments and decrease their adverse events. Although administered intravitreally, they also might enter the circulation and cause systemic effects. This study is aimed to review our current knowledge about mAbs, bevacizumab and ranibizumab, in DR including superiorities, challenges, and limitations. Meanwhile, we tried to shed light on new ideas to overcome these limitations. Our latest search was done in April 2021 mainly through PubMed and Google Scholar. Relevant clinical studies were imported. EXPERT OPINION Future direction includes detection of more therapeutic targets considering other components of DR pathophysiology and shared pathogenesis of DR and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, the treat-and-extend regimen, and new ways of drug delivery and other routes of ocular drug administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moein Ebrahimi
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA),Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Balibegloo
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA),Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA),Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Teodoro A, Gonçalves FJ, Oliveira H, Marques S. Venom of Viperidae: A Perspective of its Antibacterial and Antitumor
Potential. Curr Drug Targets 2022; 23:126-144. [DOI: 10.2174/1389450122666210811164517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
:
The emergence of multi-drug resistant bacteria and limitations on cancer treatment represent
two important challenges in modern medicine. Biological compounds have been explored with
a particular focus on venoms. Although they can be lethal or cause considerable damage to humans,
venom is also a source rich in components with high therapeutic potential.
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Viperidae family is one of the most emblematic venomous snake families and several studies highlighted
the antibacterial and antitumor potential of viper toxins. According to the literature, these
activities are mainly associated to five protein families - svLAAO, Disintegrins, PLA2, SVMPs and
C-type lectins- that act through different mechanisms leading to the inhibition of the growth of bacteria,
as well as, cytotoxic effects and inhibition of metastasis process. In this review, we provide
an overview of the venom toxins produced by species belonging to the Viperidae family, exploring
their roles during the envenoming and their pharmacological properties, in order to demonstrate its
antibacterial and antitumor potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Teodoro
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Fernando J.M. Gonçalves
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- CESAM- Centre for Environmental and
Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Helena Oliveira
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- CESAM- Centre for Environmental and
Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Marques
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
- CESAM- Centre for Environmental and
Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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17
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Lingam TMC, Tan KY, Tan CH. Capillary leak syndrome induced by the venoms of Russell's Vipers (Daboia russelii and Daboia siamensis) from eight locales and neutralization of the differential toxicity by three snake antivenoms. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2021; 250:109186. [PMID: 34508870 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2021.109186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Snakebite envenomation caused by the Western and Eastern Russell's Vipers (Daboia russelii and Daboia siamensis) may potentially induce capillary leak syndrome (CLS), while the use of antivenom in treating this has not been well examined. This study investigated the CLS-inducing toxicity of Russell's Viper venoms from various sources and examined the neutralization activity of regionally available antivenoms, using a newly devised mouse model. D. russelii venoms demonstrated a more consistent vascular leakage activity (76,000-86,000 CLS unit of vascular leak index, a function of the diameter and intensity of Evans Blue dye extravasation into dermis) than D. siamensis venoms (33,000-88,000 CLS unit). Both species venoms increased hematocrits markedly (53-67%), indicating hemoconcentration. Regional antivenoms (DsMAV-Thailand, DsMAV-Taiwan, VPAV-India) preincubated with the venoms effectively neutralized the CLS effect to different extents. When the antivenoms were administered intravenously post-envenomation (challenge-rescue model), the neutralization was less effective, implying that CLS has a rapid onset that preceded the neutralizing activity of antivenom, and/or the antivenom has limited biodistribution to the venom's inoculation site. In conclusion, Russell's Viper venoms of both species from various locales induced CLS in mice. Antivenoms generally had limited efficacy in neutralizing the CLS effect. Innovative treatment for venom-induced CLS is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thava Malar Changra Lingam
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choo Hock Tan
- Venom Research and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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18
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Ye X, Gaucher JF, Vidal M, Broussy S. A Structural Overview of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors Pharmacological Ligands: From Macromolecules to Designed Peptidomimetics. Molecules 2021; 26:6759. [PMID: 34833851 PMCID: PMC8625919 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26226759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family of cytokines plays a key role in vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis. VEGF-A is the main member of this family, alongside placental growth factor (PlGF), VEGF-B/C/D in mammals, and VEGF-E/F in other organisms. To study the activities of these growth factors under physiological and pathological conditions, resulting in therapeutic applications in cancer and age-related macular degeneration, blocking ligands have been developed. These have mostly been large biomolecules like antibodies. Ligands with high affinities, at least in the nanomolar range, and accurate structural data from X-ray crystallography and NMR spectroscopy have been described. They constitute the main focus of this overview, which evidences similarities and differences in their binding modes. For VEGF-A ligands, and to a limited extent also for PlGF, a transition is now observed towards developing smaller ligands like nanobodies and peptides. These include unnatural amino acids and chemical modifications for designed and improved properties, such as serum stability and greater affinity. However, this review also highlights the scarcity of such small molecular entities and the striking lack of small organic molecule ligands. It also shows the gap between the rather large array of ligands targeting VEGF-A and the general absence of ligands binding other VEGF members, besides some antibodies. Future developments in these directions are expected in the upcoming years, and the study of these growth factors and their promising therapeutic applications will be welcomed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Ye
- Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Université de Paris, CiTCoM, 8038 CNRS, U 1268 INSERM, 75006 Paris, France; (X.Y.); (M.V.)
| | - Jean-François Gaucher
- Laboratoire de Cristallographie et RMN Biologiques, Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Université de Paris, CiTCoM, 8038 CNRS, 75006 Paris, France;
| | - Michel Vidal
- Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Université de Paris, CiTCoM, 8038 CNRS, U 1268 INSERM, 75006 Paris, France; (X.Y.); (M.V.)
- Service Biologie du Médicament, Toxicologie, AP-HP, Hôpital Cochin, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Sylvain Broussy
- Faculté de Pharmacie de Paris, Université de Paris, CiTCoM, 8038 CNRS, U 1268 INSERM, 75006 Paris, France; (X.Y.); (M.V.)
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19
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Averin AS, Utkin YN. Cardiovascular Effects of Snake Toxins: Cardiotoxicity and Cardioprotection. Acta Naturae 2021; 13:4-14. [PMID: 34707893 PMCID: PMC8526186 DOI: 10.32607/actanaturae.11375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Snake venoms, as complex mixtures of peptides and proteins, affect various vital systems of the organism. One of the main targets of the toxic components from snake venoms is the cardiovascular system. Venom proteins and peptides can act in different ways, exhibiting either cardiotoxic or cardioprotective effects. The principal classes of these compounds are cobra cardiotoxins, phospholipases A2, and natriuretic, as well as bradykinin-potentiating peptides. There is another group of proteins capable of enhancing angiogenesis, which include, e.g., vascular endothelial growth factors possessing hypotensive and cardioprotective activities. Venom proteins and peptides exhibiting cardiotropic and vasoactive effects are promising candidates for the design of new drugs capable of preventing or constricting the development of pathological processes in cardiovascular diseases, which are currently the leading cause of death worldwide. For example, a bradykinin-potentiating peptide from Bothrops jararaca snake venom was the first snake venom compound used to create the widely used antihypertensive drugs captopril and enalapril. In this paper, we review the current state of research on snake venom components affecting the cardiovascular system and analyse the mechanisms of physiological action of these toxins and the prospects for their medical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. S. Averin
- Institute of Cell Biophysics of the Russian Academy of Sciences PSCBR RAS, Pushchino, Moscow region, 142290 Russia
| | - Yu. N. Utkin
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997 Russia
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20
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Trim CM, Byrne LJ, Trim SA. Utilisation of compounds from venoms in drug discovery. PROGRESS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2021; 60:1-66. [PMID: 34147202 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmch.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Difficult drug targets are becoming the normal course of business in drug discovery, sometimes due to large interacting surfaces or only small differences in selectivity regions. For these, a different approach is merited: compounds lying somewhere between the small molecule and the large antibody in terms of many properties including stability, biodistribution and pharmacokinetics. Venoms have evolved over millions of years to be complex mixtures of stable molecules derived from other somatic molecules, the stability comes from the pressure to be ready for delivery at a moment's notice. Snakes, spiders, scorpions, jellyfish, wasps, fish and even mammals have evolved independent venom systems with complex mixtures in their chemical arsenal. These venom-derived molecules have been proven to be useful tools, such as for the development of antihypotensive angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and have also made successful drugs such as Byetta® (Exenatide), Integrilin® (Eptifibatide) and Echistatin. Only a small percentage of the available chemical space from venoms has been investigated so far and this is growing. In a new era of biological therapeutics, venom peptides present opportunities for larger target engagement surface with greater stability than antibodies or human peptides. There are challenges for oral absorption and target engagement, but there are venom structures that overcome these and thus provide substrate for engineering novel molecules that combine all desired properties. Venom researchers are characterising new venoms, species, and functions all the time, these provide great substrate for solving the challenges presented by today's difficult targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol M Trim
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Social Sciences, Natural and Applied Sciences, School of Psychology and Life Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Lee J Byrne
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Social Sciences, Natural and Applied Sciences, School of Psychology and Life Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom
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21
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Damm M, Hempel BF, Süssmuth RD. Old World Vipers-A Review about Snake Venom Proteomics of Viperinae and Their Variations. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13060427. [PMID: 34204565 PMCID: PMC8235416 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13060427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fine-tuned by millions of years of evolution, snake venoms have frightened but also fascinated humanity and nowadays they constitute potential resources for drug development, therapeutics and antivenoms. The continuous progress of mass spectrometry techniques and latest advances in proteomics workflows enabled toxinologists to decipher venoms by modern omics technologies, so-called ‘venomics’. A tremendous upsurge reporting on snake venom proteomes could be observed. Within this review we focus on the highly venomous and widely distributed subfamily of Viperinae (Serpentes: Viperidae). A detailed public literature database search was performed (2003–2020) and we extensively reviewed all compositional venom studies of the so-called Old-World Vipers. In total, 54 studies resulted in 89 venom proteomes. The Viperinae venoms are dominated by four major, four secondary, six minor and several rare toxin families and peptides, respectively. The multitude of different venomics approaches complicates the comparison of venom composition datasets and therefore we differentiated between non-quantitative and three groups of quantitative workflows. The resulting direct comparisons within these groups show remarkable differences on the intra- and interspecies level across genera with a focus on regional differences. In summary, the present compilation is the first comprehensive up-to-date database on Viperinae venom proteomes and differentiating between analytical methods and workflows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maik Damm
- Department of Chemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Benjamin-Florian Hempel
- BIH Center for Regenerative Therapies, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, (BCRT), 10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Roderich D. Süssmuth
- Department of Chemistry, Technische Universität Berlin, Straße des 17. Juni 135, 10623 Berlin, Germany;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-(0)30-314-24205
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Snake venom vascular endothelial growth factors (svVEGFs): Unravelling their molecular structure, functions, and research potential. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2021; 60:133-143. [PMID: 34090786 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key regulator of angiogenesis, a physiological process characterized by the formation of new vessels from a preexisting endothelium. VEGF has also been implicated in pathologic states, such as neoplasias, intraocular neovascular disorders, among other conditions. VEGFs are distributed in seven different families: VEGF-A, B, C, D, and PIGF (placental growth factor), which are identified in mammals; VEGF-E, which are encountered in viruses; and VEGF-F or svVEGF (snake venom VEGF) described in snake venoms. This is the pioneer review of svVEGF family, exploring its distribution among the snake venoms, molecular structure, main functions, and potential applications.
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Almeida DD, Viala VL, Nachtigall PG, Broe M, Gibbs HL, Serrano SMDT, Moura-da-Silva AM, Ho PL, Nishiyama-Jr MY, Junqueira-de-Azevedo ILM. Tracking the recruitment and evolution of snake toxins using the evolutionary context provided by the Bothrops jararaca genome. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2015159118. [PMID: 33972420 PMCID: PMC8157943 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2015159118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Venom is a key adaptive innovation in snakes, and how nonvenom genes were co-opted to become part of the toxin arsenal is a significant evolutionary question. While this process has been investigated through the phylogenetic reconstruction of toxin sequences, evidence provided by the genomic context of toxin genes remains less explored. To investigate the process of toxin recruitment, we sequenced the genome of Bothrops jararaca, a clinically relevant pitviper. In addition to producing a road map with canonical structures of genes encoding 12 toxin families, we inferred most of the ancestral genes for their loci. We found evidence that 1) snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs) and phospholipases A2 (PLA2) have expanded in genomic proximity to their nonvenomous ancestors; 2) serine proteinases arose by co-opting a local gene that also gave rise to lizard gilatoxins and then expanded; 3) the bradykinin-potentiating peptides originated from a C-type natriuretic peptide gene backbone; and 4) VEGF-F was co-opted from a PGF-like gene and not from VEGF-A. We evaluated two scenarios for the original recruitment of nontoxin genes for snake venom: 1) in locus ancestral gene duplication and 2) in locus ancestral gene direct co-option. The first explains the origins of two important toxins (SVMP and PLA2), while the second explains the emergence of a greater number of venom components. Overall, our results support the idea of a locally assembled venom arsenal in which the most clinically relevant toxin families expanded through posterior gene duplications, regardless of whether they originated by duplication or gene co-option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Dantas Almeida
- Laboratório de Toxinologia Aplicada, Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Vincent Louis Viala
- Laboratório de Toxinologia Aplicada, Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Pedro Gabriel Nachtigall
- Laboratório de Toxinologia Aplicada, Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Michael Broe
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - H Lisle Gibbs
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Organismal Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210
| | - Solange Maria de Toledo Serrano
- Laboratório de Toxinologia Aplicada, Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Moura-da-Silva
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas (UEA), Manaus 69040-000, Brazil
| | - Paulo Lee Ho
- Serviço de Bacteriologia, Divisão BioIndustrial, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Milton Yutaka Nishiyama-Jr
- Laboratório de Toxinologia Aplicada, Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Inácio L M Junqueira-de-Azevedo
- Laboratório de Toxinologia Aplicada, Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil;
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The Role of VEGF Receptors as Molecular Target in Nuclear Medicine for Cancer Diagnosis and Combination Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13051072. [PMID: 33802353 PMCID: PMC7959315 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13051072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The rapid development of diagnostic and therapeutic methods of the cancer treatment causes that these diseases are becoming better known and the fight against them is more and more effective. Substantial contribution in this development has nuclear medicine that enables very early cancer diagnosis and early start of the so-called targeted therapy. This therapeutic concept compared to the currently used chemotherapy, causes much fewer undesirable side effects, due to targeting a specific lesion in the body. This review article discusses the possible applications of radionuclide-labelled tracers (peptides, antibodies or synthetic organic molecules) that can visualise cancer cells through pathological blood vessel system in close tumour microenvironment. Hence, at a very early step of oncological disease, targeted therapy can involve in tumour formation and growth. Abstract One approach to anticancer treatment is targeted anti-angiogenic therapy (AAT) based on prevention of blood vessel formation around the developing cancer cells. It is known that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs) play a pivotal role in angiogenesis process; hence, application of angiogenesis inhibitors can be an effective approach in anticancer combination therapeutic strategies. Currently, several types of molecules have been utilised in targeted VEGF/VEGFR anticancer therapy, including human VEGF ligands themselves and their derivatives, anti-VEGF or anti-VEGFR monoclonal antibodies, VEGF binding peptides and small molecular inhibitors of VEGFR tyrosine kinases. These molecules labelled with diagnostic or therapeutic radionuclides can become, respectively, diagnostic or therapeutic receptor radiopharmaceuticals. In targeted anti-angiogenic therapy, diagnostic radioagents play a unique role, allowing the determination of the emerging tumour, to monitor the course of treatment, to predict the treatment outcomes and, first of all, to refer patients for AAT. This review provides an overview of design, synthesis and study of radiolabelled VEGF/VEGFR targeting and imaging agents to date. Additionally, we will briefly discuss their physicochemical properties and possible application in combination targeted radionuclide tumour therapy.
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Senji Laxme RR, Khochare S, Attarde S, Suranse V, Iyer A, Casewell NR, Whitaker R, Martin G, Sunagar K. Biogeographic venom variation in Russell's viper (Daboia russelii) and the preclinical inefficacy of antivenom therapy in snakebite hotspots. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009247. [PMID: 33764996 PMCID: PMC7993602 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Snakebite in India results in over 58,000 fatalities and a vast number of morbidities annually. The majority of these clinically severe envenomings are attributed to Russell's viper (Daboia russelii), which has a near pan-India distribution. Unfortunately, despite its medical significance, the influence of biogeography on the composition and potency of venom from disparate D. russelii populations, and the repercussions of venom variation on the neutralisation efficacy of marketed Indian antivenoms, remain elusive. METHODS Here, we employ an integrative approach comprising proteomic characterisation, biochemical analyses, pharmacological assessment, and venom toxicity profiling to elucidate the influence of varying ecology and environment on the pan-Indian populations of D. russelii. We then conducted in vitro venom recognition experiments and in vivo neutralisation assays to evaluate the efficacy of the commercial Indian antivenoms against the geographically disparate D. russelii populations. FINDINGS We reveal significant intraspecific variation in the composition, biochemical and pharmacological activities and potencies of D. russelii venoms sourced from five distinct biogeographic zones across India. Contrary to our understanding of the consequences of venom variation on the effectiveness of snakebite therapy, commercial antivenom exhibited surprisingly similar neutralisation potencies against the majority of the investigated populations, with the exception of low preclinical efficacy against the semi-arid population from northern India. However, the ability of Indian antivenoms to counter the severe morbid effects of Daboia envenoming remains to be evaluated. CONCLUSION The concerning lack of antivenom efficacy against the north Indian population of D. russelii, as well as against two other 'big four' snake species in nearby locations, underscores the pressing need to develop pan-India effective antivenoms with improved efficacy in high snakebite burden locales.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. R. Senji Laxme
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Suyog Khochare
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Saurabh Attarde
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Vivek Suranse
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Ashwin Iyer
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Nicholas R. Casewell
- Centre for Snakebite Research & Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Romulus Whitaker
- Madras Crocodile Bank Trust/Centre for Herpetology. East Coast Road, Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Gerard Martin
- The Liana Trust. Survey #1418/1419 Rathnapuri, Hunsur, Karnataka, India
| | - Kartik Sunagar
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab. Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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Künnapuu J, Bokharaie H, Jeltsch M. Proteolytic Cleavages in the VEGF Family: Generating Diversity among Angiogenic VEGFs, Essential for the Activation of Lymphangiogenic VEGFs. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10020167. [PMID: 33672235 PMCID: PMC7926383 DOI: 10.3390/biology10020167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) regulate the growth of blood and lymphatic vessels. Some of them induce the growth of blood vessels, and others the growth of lymphatic vessels. Blocking VEGF-A is used today to treat several types of cancer (“antiangiogenic therapy”). However, in other diseases, we would like to increase the activity of VEGFs. For example, VEGF-A could generate new blood vessels to protect from heart disease, and VEGF-C could generate new lymphatics to counteract lymphedema. Clinical trials are testing the latter concept at the moment. Because VEGF-C and VEGF-D are produced as inactive precursors, we propose that novel drugs could also target the enzymatic activation of VEGF-C and VEGF-D. However, because of the delicate balance between too much and too little vascular growth, a detailed understanding of the activation of the VEGFs is needed before such concepts can be converted into safe and efficacious therapies. Abstract Specific proteolytic cleavages turn on, modify, or turn off the activity of vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs). Proteolysis is most prominent among the lymphangiogenic VEGF-C and VEGF-D, which are synthesized as precursors that need to undergo enzymatic removal of their C- and N-terminal propeptides before they can activate their receptors. At least five different proteases mediate the activating cleavage of VEGF-C: plasmin, ADAMTS3, prostate-specific antigen, cathepsin D, and thrombin. All of these proteases except for ADAMTS3 can also activate VEGF-D. Processing by different proteases results in distinct forms of the “mature” growth factors, which differ in affinity and receptor activation potential. The “default” VEGF-C-activating enzyme ADAMTS3 does not activate VEGF-D, and therefore, VEGF-C and VEGF-D do function in different contexts. VEGF-C itself is also regulated in different contexts by distinct proteases. During embryonic development, ADAMTS3 activates VEGF-C. The other activating proteases are likely important for non-developmental lymphangiogenesis during, e.g., tissue regeneration, inflammation, immune response, and pathological tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis. The better we understand these events at the molecular level, the greater our chances of developing successful therapies targeting VEGF-C and VEGF-D for diseases involving the lymphatics such as lymphedema or cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaana Künnapuu
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (J.K.); (H.B.)
| | - Honey Bokharaie
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (J.K.); (H.B.)
| | - Michael Jeltsch
- Drug Research Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland; (J.K.); (H.B.)
- Individualized Drug Therapy Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, 00014 Helsinki, Finland
- Wihuri Research Institute, 00290 Helsinki, Finland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +358-50-3200235
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Molecular Targeting of Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor (VEGFR). Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26041076. [PMID: 33670650 PMCID: PMC7922143 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26041076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) are two extensively studied membrane-bound receptor tyrosine kinase proteins that are frequently overexpressed in many cancers. As a result, these receptor families constitute attractive targets for imaging and therapeutic applications in the detection and treatment of cancer. This review explores the dynamic structure and structure-function relationships of these two growth factor receptors and their significance as it relates to theranostics of cancer, followed by some of the common inhibition modalities frequently employed to target EGFR and VEGFR, such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), antibodies, nanobodies, and peptides. A summary of the recent advances in molecular imaging techniques, including positron emission tomography (PET), single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and optical imaging (OI), and in particular, near-IR fluorescence imaging using tetrapyrrolic-based fluorophores, concludes this review.
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Proteomic Investigations of Two Pakistani Naja Snake Venoms Species Unravel the Venom Complexity, Posttranslational Modifications, and Presence of Extracellular Vesicles. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12110669. [PMID: 33105837 PMCID: PMC7690644 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12110669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Latest advancement of omics technologies allows in-depth characterization of venom compositions. In the present work we present a proteomic study of two snake venoms of the genus Naja i.e., Naja naja (black cobra) and Naja oxiana (brown cobra) of Pakistani origin. The present study has shown that these snake venoms consist of a highly diversified proteome. Furthermore, the data also revealed variation among closely related species. High throughput mass spectrometric analysis of the venom proteome allowed to identify for the N. naja venom 34 protein families and for the N. oxiana 24 protein families. The comparative evaluation of the two venoms showed that N. naja consists of a more complex venom proteome than N. oxiana venom. Analysis also showed N-terminal acetylation (N-ace) of a few proteins in both venoms. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study revealing this posttranslational modification in snake venom. N-ace can shed light on the mechanism of regulation of venom proteins inside the venom gland. Furthermore, our data showed the presence of other body proteins, e.g., ankyrin repeats, leucine repeats, zinc finger, cobra serum albumin, transferrin, insulin, deoxyribonuclease-2-alpha, and other regulatory proteins in these venoms. Interestingly, our data identified Ras-GTpase type of proteins, which indicate the presence of extracellular vesicles in the venom. The data can support the production of distinct and specific anti-venoms and also allow a better understanding of the envenomation and mechanism of distribution of toxins. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD018726.
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Chanda A, Mukherjee AK. Mass spectrometric analysis to unravel the venom proteome composition of Indian snakes: opening new avenues in clinical research. Expert Rev Proteomics 2020; 17:411-423. [DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2020.1778471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Chanda
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur, Assam, India
| | - Ashis K. Mukherjee
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur, Assam, India
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Sánchez Ramírez J, Morera Díaz Y, Bequet-Romero M, Hernández-Bernal F, Martín Bauta Y, Selman-Housein Bernal KH, de la Torre Santos AV, Pérez de la Iglesia M, Trimiño Lorenzo L, Ayala Avila M. Specific humoral response in cancer patients treated with a VEGF-specific active immunotherapy procedure within a compassionate use program. BMC Immunol 2020; 21:12. [PMID: 32171254 PMCID: PMC7071683 DOI: 10.1186/s12865-020-0338-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND CIGB-247 is a cancer therapeutic vaccine that uses as antigen a variant of human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mixed with the bacterially-derived adjuvant VSSP. CIGB-247 has been already evaluated in two phase I clinical trials (CENTAURO and CENTAURO-2), showing to be safe and immunogenic in advanced cancer patients selected under well-defined and controlled clinical conditions. Surviving patients were submitted to monthly re-immunizations and some of them showed objective clinical benefits. Based on these results, a compassionate use program (CUP) with CIGB-247 was initiated for patients that did not meet the strict entry criteria applied for the CENTAURO and CENTAURO-2 clinical trials, but could potentially benefit from the application of this cancer therapeutic vaccine. RESULTS Polyclonal IgM, IgA and IgG antibodies specific for VEGF were detected by ELISA in serum samples from patients vaccinated with 400 μg of antigen combined with 200 μg of VSSP. Polyclonal antibody response showed no cross reactivity for other VEGF family member molecules like VEGF-C and VEGF-D. Serum from immunized individuals was able to block the binding of VEGF to its receptors VEGFR2 and VEGFR1. IgG fraction purified from immune sera shared the aforementioned characteristics and also inhibited the interaction between VEGF and the therapeutic recombinant antibody bevacizumab, an anti-angiogenic drug approved for the treatment of different tumors. No serious adverse events attributable to CIGB-247 have been documented yet in participants of the CIGB-247 CUP. The present paper is a first report of our findings concerning the humoral response and safety characteristics in treated CIGB-247 CUP cancer patients. The study has provided the unique opportunity of not only testing CIGB-247 in a broader clinical spectrum sample of Cuban cancer patients, but also within the context of the day-to-day clinical practice and treatment settings for these diseases in Cuban medical institutions. CONCLUSIONS The CIGB-247 CUP has demonstrated that immunization and follow-up of a variety of cancer patients, under day-to-day clinical practice conditions in several Cuban medical institutions, replicate our previous findings in clinical trials: CIGB-247 is safe and immunogenic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Sánchez Ramírez
- Department of Pharmaceuticals, Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Playa, 10600 Havana, Cuba
| | - Yanelys Morera Díaz
- Department of Pharmaceuticals, Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Playa, 10600 Havana, Cuba
| | - Mónica Bequet-Romero
- Department of Pharmaceuticals, Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Playa, 10600 Havana, Cuba
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Marta Ayala Avila
- Department of Pharmaceuticals, Center of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), Playa, 10600 Havana, Cuba
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Porta M, Striglia E. Intravitreal anti-VEGF agents and cardiovascular risk. Intern Emerg Med 2020; 15:199-210. [PMID: 31848994 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-019-02253-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Antagonists of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (Anti-VEGF) are widely administered by intravitreal injection for the treatment of ocular pathologies such as Age-related Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Macular Edema, Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy and occlusion of retinal vessels. Anti-VEGF agents, in particular bevacizumab, were introduced in oncology to inhibit tumor-induced angiogenesis feeding neoplastic tissues. Subsequently, other specific agents were developed for intraocular administration. Whereas systemic administration of anti-VEGF agents in oncology is burdened by increased risk of arterial hypertension and embolism, agents administered for ophthalmic indications are delivered locally into the eye globe in much smaller quantities. Nevertheless, clinical observations have raised the possibility that, even in these conditions, anti-VEGF agents may increase cardiovascular risk in patients who, being elderly and/or diabetic, are intrinsically prone to such events. This paper aims at reviewing the current knowledge on VEGF and its pharmacologic antagonists from mechanistic and side effect points of view, with specific reference to patients with sight-threatening conditions. Internists should be aware of the need to collaborate with ophthalmologists and pharmacovigilance operators to define as best as possible the risk/benefit balance of intravitreal agents in patients who might lose their sight if left untreated, or increase their risk of suffering a cardiovascular event if treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Porta
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso AM Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy.
| | - Elio Striglia
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Corso AM Dogliotti 14, 10126, Turin, Italy
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Wang CR, Bubner ER, Jovcevski B, Mittal P, Pukala TL. Interrogating the higher order structures of snake venom proteins using an integrated mass spectrometric approach. J Proteomics 2020; 216:103680. [PMID: 32028038 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2020.103680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Snake venoms contain complex mixtures of proteins vital for the survival of venomous snakes. Aligned with their diverse pharmacological activities, the protein compositions of snake venoms are highly variable, and efforts to characterise the primary structures of such proteins are ongoing. Additionally, a significant knowledge gap exists in terms of the higher-order protein structures which modulate venom potency, posing a challenge for successful therapeutic applications. Here we use a multifaceted mass spectrometry approach to characterise proteins from venoms of Collett's snake Pseudechis colletti and the puff adder Bitis arietans. Following chromatographic fractionation and bottom-up proteomics analysis, native mass spectrometry identified, among other components, a non-covalent l-amino acid oxidase dimer in the P. colletti venom and a C-type lectin tetramer in the B. arietans venom. Furthermore, a covalently-linked phospholipase A2 (PLA2) dimer was identified in P. colletti venom, from which the PLA2 species were shown to adopt compact geometries using ion mobility measurements. Interestingly, we show that the dimeric PLA2 possesses greater bioactivity than the monomeric PLA2s. This work contributes to ongoing efforts cataloguing components of snake venoms, and notably, emphasises the importance of understanding higher-order venom protein interactions and the utility of a combined mass spectrometric approach for this task. SIGNIFICANCE: The protein constituents of snake venoms represent a sophisticated cocktail of biologically active molecules ideally suited for further exploration in drug design and development. Despite ongoing efforts to characterise the diverse protein components of such venoms there is still much work required in this area, particularly in moving from simply describing the protein primary sequence to providing an understanding of quaternary structure. The combined proteomic and native mass spectrometry workflow utilised here gives new insights into higher order protein structures in selected snake venoms, and can underpin further investigation into the protein interactions which govern snake venom specificity and potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ruth Wang
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
| | - Emily R Bubner
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
| | - Blagojce Jovcevski
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
| | - Parul Mittal
- Adelaide Proteomics Centre, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
| | - Tara L Pukala
- Department of Chemistry, School of Physical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia.
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Alternative mRNA Splicing in Three Venom Families Underlying a Possible Production of Divergent Venom Proteins of the Habu Snake, Protobothrops flavoviridis. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11100581. [PMID: 31600994 PMCID: PMC6832531 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11100581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Snake venoms are complex mixtures of toxic proteins encoded by various gene families that function synergistically to incapacitate prey. A huge repertoire of snake venom genes and proteins have been reported, and alternative splicing is suggested to be involved in the production of divergent gene transcripts. However, a genome-wide survey of the transcript repertoire and the extent of alternative splicing still remains to be determined. In this study, the comprehensive analysis of transcriptomes in the venom gland was achieved by using PacBio sequencing. Extensive alternative splicing was observed in three venom protein gene families, metalloproteinase (MP), serine protease (SP), and vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF). Eleven MP and SP genes and a VEGF gene are expressed as a total of 81, 61, and 8 transcript variants, respectively. In the MP gene family, individual genes are transcribed into different classes of MPs by alternative splicing. We also observed trans-splicing among the clustered SP genes. No other venom genes as well as non-venom counterpart genes exhibited alternative splicing. Our results thus indicate a potential contribution of mRNA alternative and trans-splicing in the production of highly variable transcripts of venom genes in the habu snake.
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Kalita B, Mukherjee AK. Recent advances in snake venom proteomics research in India: a new horizon to decipher the geographical variation in venom proteome composition and exploration of candidate drug prototypes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s42485-019-00014-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Xie B, Yu H, Kerkkamp H, Wang M, Richardson M, Shi Q. Comparative transcriptome analyses of venom glands from three scorpionfishes. Genomics 2018; 111:231-241. [PMID: 30458272 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2018.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Scorpionfishes (Scorpaenidae) are a relatively common cause of human envenomation. They often enter coastal waters and their stings can be quite hazardous, provoking extreme pain and causing the victims to take days to recover. There are few genomic resources available for the scorpionfishes. In this study, we elucidated the transcriptomic profile of the venom glands from three different scorpionfish species, namely Scorpaenopsis cirrosa, S. neglecta and S. possi. This is the first report of scorpionfish transcriptomes. After functional and pathway annotation, we employed toxin annotation to identify many species-specific (18, 13 and 19 respectively) and overlapping putative toxins among the three species. Our study represents a significant improvement in the genetic information about the venoms from these three species. Moreover, this work also provides an archive for future studies on evolution of fish toxins and can be used for comparative studies of other fishes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Xie
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden 2333BE, Netherlands; BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518083, China.
| | - Huang Yu
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen 518083, China; BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518083, China.
| | - Harald Kerkkamp
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden 2333BE, Netherlands.
| | - Min Wang
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen 518083, China.
| | - Michael Richardson
- Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden 2333BE, Netherlands.
| | - Qiong Shi
- Shenzhen Key Lab of Marine Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Lab of Molecular Breeding in Marine Economic Animals, BGI Academy of Marine Sciences, BGI Marine, BGI, Shenzhen 518083, China; BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518083, China.
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Wiezel GA, Shibao PYT, Cologna CT, Morandi Filho R, Ueira-Vieira C, De Pauw E, Quinton L, Arantes EC. In-Depth Venome of the Brazilian Rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus: An Integrative Approach Combining Its Venom Gland Transcriptome and Venom Proteome. J Proteome Res 2018; 17:3941-3958. [PMID: 30270628 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.8b00610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisele A Wiezel
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto , University of São Paulo , Av. do Café, s/n , 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto , Brazil
| | - Priscila Y T Shibao
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto , University of São Paulo , Av. do Café, s/n , 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto , Brazil
| | - Camila T Cologna
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto , University of São Paulo , Av. do Café, s/n , 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto , Brazil
| | - Romualdo Morandi Filho
- Laboratory of Genetics, Biotechnology Institute , Federal University of Uberlândia , Rua Acre, s/n , 38400-902 Uberlândia , Brazil
| | - Carlos Ueira-Vieira
- Laboratory of Genetics, Biotechnology Institute , Federal University of Uberlândia , Rua Acre, s/n , 38400-902 Uberlândia , Brazil
| | - Edwin De Pauw
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, Department of Chemistry , University of Liège , Bat. B6c , 4000 Liège , Belgium
| | - Loïc Quinton
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, Department of Chemistry , University of Liège , Bat. B6c , 4000 Liège , Belgium
| | - Eliane C Arantes
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto , University of São Paulo , Av. do Café, s/n , 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto , Brazil
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Kalita B, Mackessy SP, Mukherjee AK. Proteomic analysis reveals geographic variation in venom composition of Russell's Viper in the Indian subcontinent: implications for clinical manifestations post-envenomation and antivenom treatment. Expert Rev Proteomics 2018; 15:837-849. [PMID: 30247947 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2018.1528150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Russell's Viper (RV) (Daboia russelii), a category I medically important snake, is responsible for a significant level of morbidity and mortality in the Indian sub-continent. Areas covered: The current review highlights the variation in RV venom (RVV) composition from different geographical locales on the Indian sub-continent, as revealed by biochemical and proteomic analyses. A comparison of these RVV proteomes revealed significant differences in the number of toxin isoforms and relative toxin abundances, highlighting the impact of geographic location on RVV composition. Antivenom efficacy studies have shown differential neutralization of toxicity and enzymatic activity of different RVV samples from the Indian sub-continent by commercial polyvalent antivenom (PAV). The proteome analysis has provided deeper insights into the variation of RVV composition leading to differences in antivenom efficacy and severity of clinical manifestations post RV-envenomation across the Indian sub-continent. Expert commentary: Variation in RVV antigenicity due to geographical differences and poor recognition of low molecular mass (<20 kDa) RVV toxins by PAV are serious concerns for effective antivenom treatment against RV envenomation. Improvements in immunization protocols that take into account the poorly immunogenic components and geographic variation in RVV composition, can lead to better hospital management of RV bite patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhargab Kalita
- a Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology , Tezpur University , Tezpur , India
| | - Stephen P Mackessy
- b School of Biological Sciences , University of Northern Colorado , Greeley , CO , USA
| | - Ashis K Mukherjee
- a Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology , Tezpur University , Tezpur , India
- b School of Biological Sciences , University of Northern Colorado , Greeley , CO , USA
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Estevão-Costa MI, Sanz-Soler R, Johanningmeier B, Eble JA. Snake venom components in medicine: From the symbolic rod of Asclepius to tangible medical research and application. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2018; 104:94-113. [PMID: 30261311 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2018.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Both mythologically and logically, snakes have always fascinated man. Snakes have attracted both awe and fear not only because of the elegant movement of their limbless bodies, but also because of the potency of their deadly venoms. Practically, in 2017, the world health organization (WHO) listed snake envenomation as a high priority neglected disease, as snakes inflict up to 2.7 million poisonous bites, around 100.000 casualties, and about three times as many invalidities on man. The venoms of poisonous snakes are a cocktail of potent compounds which specifically and avidly target numerous essential molecules with high efficacy. The individual effects of all venom toxins integrate into lethal dysfunctions of almost any organ system. It is this efficacy and specificity of each venom component, which after analysis of its structure and activity may serve as a potential lead structure for chemical imitation. Such toxin mimetics may help in influencing a specific body function pharmaceutically for the sake of man's health. In this review article, we will give some examples of snake venom components which have spurred the development of novel pharmaceutical compounds. Moreover, we will provide examples where such snake toxin-derived mimetics are in clinical use, trials, or consideration for further pharmaceutical exploitation, especially in the fields of hemostasis, thrombosis, coagulation, and metastasis. Thus, it becomes clear why a snake captured its symbolic place at the Asclepius rod with good reason still nowadays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Inacia Estevão-Costa
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, Waldeyerstr. 15, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Raquel Sanz-Soler
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, Waldeyerstr. 15, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Benjamin Johanningmeier
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, Waldeyerstr. 15, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Johannes A Eble
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, University of Münster, Waldeyerstr. 15, 48149, Münster, Germany.
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Chapeaurouge A, Silva A, Carvalho P, McCleary RJR, Modahl CM, Perales J, Kini RM, Mackessy SP. Proteomic Deep Mining the Venom of the Red-Headed Krait, Bungarus flaviceps. Toxins (Basel) 2018; 10:E373. [PMID: 30217057 PMCID: PMC6162843 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10090373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of -omics technologies allows for the characterization of snake venom composition at a fast rate and at high levels of detail. In the present study, we investigated the protein content of Red-headed Krait (Bungarus flaviceps) venom. This analysis revealed a high diversity of snake venom protein families, as evidenced by high-throughput mass spectrometric analysis. We found all six venom protein families previously reported in a transcriptome study of the venom gland of B. flaviceps, including phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s), Kunitz-type serine proteinase inhibitors (KSPIs), three-finger toxins (3FTxs), cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISPs), snaclecs, and natriuretic peptides. A combined approach of automated database searches and de novo sequencing of tandem mass spectra, followed by sequence similarity searches, revealed the presence of 12 additional toxin families. De novo sequencing alone was able to identify 58 additional peptides, and this approach contributed significantly to the comprehensive description of the venom. Abundant protein families comprise 3FTxs (22.3%), KSPIs (19%), acetylcholinesterases (12.6%), PLA₂s (11.9%), venom endothelial growth factors (VEGFs, 8.4%), nucleotidases (4.3%), and C-type lectin-like proteins (snaclecs, 3.3%); an additional 11 toxin families are present at significantly lower concentrations, including complement depleting factors, a family not previously detected in Bungarus venoms. The utility of a multifaceted approach toward unraveling the proteome of snake venoms, employed here, allowed detection of even minor venom components. This more in-depth knowledge of the composition of B. flaviceps venom facilitates a better understanding of snake venom molecular evolution, in turn contributing to more effective treatment of krait bites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Chapeaurouge
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Ceará, Rua São José, 2º Pavimento, Precabura, Eusébio 61760-000, Brazil.
| | - Andreza Silva
- Laboratório de Toxinologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21045-900, Brazil.
| | - Paulo Carvalho
- Computational Mass Spectrometry& Proteomics Group, Carlos Chagas Institute, Fiocruz, Paraná 81350-010, Brazil.
| | - Ryan J R McCleary
- Department of Biology, Stetson University, 421 N. Woodland Blvd, DeLand, FL 32723, USA.
| | - Cassandra Marie Modahl
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543, Singapore.
| | - Jonas Perales
- Laboratório de Toxinologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21045-900, Brazil.
| | - R Manjunatha Kini
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, Singapore 117543, Singapore.
| | - Stephen P Mackessy
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th St., CB 92, Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA.
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Kalita B, Patra A, Das A, Mukherjee AK. Proteomic Analysis and Immuno-Profiling of Eastern India Russell's Viper ( Daboia russelii) Venom: Correlation between RVV Composition and Clinical Manifestations Post RV Bite. J Proteome Res 2018; 17:2819-2833. [PMID: 29938511 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.8b00291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The proteomes of Russell's viper venom (RVV) from Burdwan (RVV B) and Nadia (RVV N), the two districts of West Bengal, eastern India (EI), were investigated by gel-filtration chromatography (GFC) followed by tandem mass spectrometry of tryptic fragments of the fractions. A total of 73 and 69 proteins belonging to 15 snake venom protein families were identified in RVV B and RVV N, respectively, by MS/MS search against Viperidae (taxid 8689) protein entries of the nonredundant NCBI database. The minor differences in venom composition of both the EI RV were established unequivocally by their biochemical and pharmacological properties and by SDS-PAGE, gel filtration chromatography, and LC-MS/MS analyses. The composition of EI RVVs was well correlated with published reports on the pathophysiology of RV-envenomed patients from this part of the country. Venom-antivenom cross-reactivity determined by ELISA, Western blotting, and antivenomics approaches demonstrated poor recognition of low molecular mass (<20 kDa) RVV proteins by commercial polyvalent antivenoms, which was substantiated by neutralization of RVV enzymes by antivenom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhargab Kalita
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology , Tezpur University , Tezpur 784028 , Assam , India
| | - Aparup Patra
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology , Tezpur University , Tezpur 784028 , Assam , India
| | - Anjali Das
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology , Tezpur University , Tezpur 784028 , Assam , India
| | - Ashis K Mukherjee
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology , Tezpur University , Tezpur 784028 , Assam , India
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Wise LM, Stuart GS, Real NC, Fleming SB, Mercer AA. VEGF Receptor-2 Activation Mediated by VEGF-E Limits Scar Tissue Formation Following Cutaneous Injury. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle) 2018; 7:283-297. [PMID: 30087804 DOI: 10.1089/wound.2016.0721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family members are critical regulators of tissue repair and depending on their distinct pattern of receptor specificity can also promote inflammation and scarring. This study utilized a receptor-selective VEGF to examine the role of VEGF receptor (VEGFR)-2 in scar tissue (ST) formation. Approach: Cutaneous skin wounds were created in mice using a 4 mm biopsy punch and then treated until closure with purified VEGF-E derived from orf virus stain NZ-2. Tissue samples were harvested to measure gene expression using quantitative PCR and to observe ST formation through histological examination and changes in cell populations by immunofluorescence. Results: VEGFR-2-activation with VEGF-E increased expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 and reduced macrophage infiltration and myofibroblast differentiation in wounded skin compared with controls. VEGF-E treatment also increased microvascular density and improved pericyte coverage of blood vessels in the healing wounds. The ST that formed following treatment with VEGF-E was reduced in size and showed improved collagen structure. Innovation: The role of VEGFR-2 activation in wound epithelialization and angiogenesis is well established; but its contribution to ST formation is unclear. This study tests the effect of a selective VEGFR-2 activation on ST formation following cutaneous wounding in a murine model. Conclusion: VEGFR-2 stimulation can enhance the quality of skin repair, at least, in part, through the induction of IL-10 expression and dampening of wound inflammation and fibrosis. Therapies that selectively activate VEGFR-2 may therefore be beneficial to treat impaired healing or to prevent excess scarring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyn M. Wise
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Gabriella S. Stuart
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Nicola C. Real
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Stephen B. Fleming
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Andrew A. Mercer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Faisal T, Tan KY, Sim SM, Quraishi N, Tan NH, Tan CH. Proteomics, functional characterization and antivenom neutralization of the venom of Pakistani Russell's viper (Daboia russelii) from the wild. J Proteomics 2018; 183:1-13. [PMID: 29729992 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2018] [Revised: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The venom proteome of wild Pakistani Russell's viper (Daboia russelii) was investigated through nano-ESI-LCMS/MS of the reverse-phase HPLC fractions. A total of 54 venom proteins were identified and clustered into 11 protein families. Phospholipase A2 (PLA2, 63.8%) and Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor (KSPI, 16.0%) were most abundant, followed by snake venom serine protease (SVSP, 5.5%, mainly Factor V activating enzyme), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF, 4.3%), snake venom metalloproteinase (SVMP, 2.5%, mainly Factor X activating enzyme) and phosphodiesterase (PDE, 2.5%). Other minor proteins include cysteine-rich secretory protein (CRiSP), snake venom C-type lectin/lectin-like protein (snaclec), nerve growth factor, L-amino acid oxidase and 5'-nucleotidase. PLA2, KSPI, SVSP, snaclec and SVMP are hemotoxic proteins in the venom. The study indicated substantial venom variation in D. russelii venoms of different locales, including 3 Pakistani specimens kept in the USA. The venom exhibited potent procoagulant activity on human plasma (minimum clotting dose = 14.5 ng/ml) and high lethality (rodent LD50 = 0.19 μg/g) but lacked hemorrhagic effect locally. The Indian VINS Polyvalent Antivenom bound the venom immunologically in a concentration-dependent manner. It moderately neutralized the venom procoagulant and lethal effects (normalized potency against lethality = 2.7 mg venom neutralized per g antivenom). BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE Comprehensive venom proteomes of D. russelii from different locales will facilitate better understanding of the geographical variability of the venom in both qualitative and quantitative terms. This is essential to provide scientific basis for the interpretation of differences in the clinical presentation of Russell's viper envenomation. The study revealed a unique venom proteome of the Pakistani D. russelii from the wild (Indus Delta), in which PLA2 predominated (~60% of total venom proteins). The finding unveiled remarkable differences in the venom compositions between the wild (present study) and the captive specimens reported previously. The integration of toxicity tests enabled the correlation of the venom proteome with the envenoming pathophysiology, where the venom showed potent lethality mediated through coagulopathic activity. The Indian VINS Polyvalent Antivenom (VPAV) showed binding activity toward the venom protein antigens; however the immunorecognition of small proteins and PLA2-dominating fractions was low to moderate. Consistently, the antivenom neutralized the toxicity of the wild Pakistani Russell's viper venom at moderate efficacies. Our results suggest that it may be possible to enhance the Indian antivenom potency against the Pakistani viper venom by the inclusion of venoms from a wider geographical range including that from Pakistan into the immunogen formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasnim Faisal
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Si Mui Sim
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Naeem Quraishi
- ASV/ARV Serology Laboratory, Peoples Medical University, Nawabshah, Pakistan
| | - Nget Hong Tan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choo Hock Tan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Terao N, Koizumi H, Kojima K, Yamagishi T, Yamamoto Y, Yoshii K, Kitazawa K, Hiraga A, Toda M, Kinoshita S, Sotozono C, Hamuro J. Distinct Aqueous Humour Cytokine Profiles of Patients with Pachychoroid Neovasculopathy and Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10520. [PMID: 30002400 PMCID: PMC6043533 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-28484-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the pathophysiological features of pachychoroid neovasculopathy (PNV) and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) by analysing and comparing cytokine profiles in aqueous humour (AH) collected from 18 PNV, 18 nAMD and 11 control patients. Responses to intravitreal injection of aflibercept were also analysed in the PNV and nAMD groups. In the PNV group, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A was significantly lower than in the nAMD group (p = 0.03) but was almost identical to that in the control group (p = 0.86). The nAMD group showed positive correlations between interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 (r = 0.78, p < 0.001), IL-6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 (r = 0.68, p = 0.002) and IL-8 and MCP-1 (r = 0.68, p = 0.002). In the nAMD group, eyes with dry maculae one month after the first aflibercept injection showed significantly lower VEGF-A and placental growth factor (PlGF) at baseline than those with wet maculae (p = 0.02 for both). However, there was no significant difference between dry and wet maculae in the PNV group. The results suggest that angiogenic factors and proinflammatory cytokines may play the distinct roles in the pathogenesis of PNV and nAMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuhiro Terao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hideki Koizumi
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan.
| | - Kentaro Kojima
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Yamagishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yuji Yamamoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kengo Yoshii
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics in Medical Sciences, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Koji Kitazawa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Asako Hiraga
- Department of Frontier Medical Science and Technology for Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Munetoyo Toda
- Department of Frontier Medical Science and Technology for Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shigeru Kinoshita
- Department of Frontier Medical Science and Technology for Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Chie Sotozono
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Junji Hamuro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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Peach CJ, Mignone VW, Arruda MA, Alcobia DC, Hill SJ, Kilpatrick LE, Woolard J. Molecular Pharmacology of VEGF-A Isoforms: Binding and Signalling at VEGFR2. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1264. [PMID: 29690653 PMCID: PMC5979509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19041264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 259] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 04/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) is a key mediator of angiogenesis, signalling via the class IV tyrosine kinase receptor family of VEGF Receptors (VEGFRs). Although VEGF-A ligands bind to both VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, they primarily signal via VEGFR2 leading to endothelial cell proliferation, survival, migration and vascular permeability. Distinct VEGF-A isoforms result from alternative splicing of the Vegfa gene at exon 8, resulting in VEGFxxxa or VEGFxxxb isoforms. Alternative splicing events at exons 5⁻7, in addition to recently identified posttranslational read-through events, produce VEGF-A isoforms that differ in their bioavailability and interaction with the co-receptor Neuropilin-1. This review explores the molecular pharmacology of VEGF-A isoforms at VEGFR2 in respect to ligand binding and downstream signalling. To understand how VEGF-A isoforms have distinct signalling despite similar affinities for VEGFR2, this review re-evaluates the typical classification of these isoforms relative to the prototypical, “pro-angiogenic” VEGF165a. We also examine the molecular mechanisms underpinning the regulation of VEGF-A isoform signalling and the importance of interactions with other membrane and extracellular matrix proteins. As approved therapeutics targeting the VEGF-A/VEGFR signalling axis largely lack long-term efficacy, understanding these isoform-specific mechanisms could aid future drug discovery efforts targeting VEGF receptor pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe J Peach
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Viviane W Mignone
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
- CAPES-University of Nottingham Programme in Drug Discovery, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Maria Augusta Arruda
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
- CAPES-University of Nottingham Programme in Drug Discovery, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Diana C Alcobia
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Stephen J Hill
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Laura E Kilpatrick
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Jeanette Woolard
- Division of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, School of Life Sciences, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
- Centre of Membrane Proteins and Receptors (COMPARE), University of Birmingham and University of Nottingham, Midlands NG7 2UH, UK.
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Mesquita J, Castro-de-Sousa JP, Vaz-Pereira S, Neves A, Passarinha LA, Tomaz CT. Vascular endothelial growth factors and placenta growth factor in retinal vasculopathies: Current research and future perspectives. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2017; 39:102-115. [PMID: 29248329 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Vision loss due to disease or degeneration of the eye (retina, choroid, retinal veins, or macula) is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. In most cases, vision-threatening ocular diseases are accompanied by abnormal changes in the vasculature of the eye, especially the retina, and these conditions are collectively referred to as retinal vasculopathies. Impaired blood supply or hypoxia stimulates angiogenesis in the vascular and non-vascular sections of the eye, which results in neovascularization, leading to conditions such as diabetic retinopathy or age-related macular degeneration. Studies show that vascular endothelial growth factors: VEGF-A, VEGF-B, and placental growth factor (PlGF) are elevated in these diseases, and hence, these factors could be used as markers for disease prognosis and therapy. In this review, we discuss the function of these growth factors in normal development and disease, with focus on ocular disorders and emphasize the importance of accurately determining their levels in the vitreous and serum of patients for correct diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Mesquita
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - João Paulo Castro-de-Sousa
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal; Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, R. das Olhalvas, 2410-197 Leiria, Portugal.
| | - Sara Vaz-Pereira
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital de Santa Maria, Av. Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisbon, Portugal; Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Arminda Neves
- Department of Ophthalmology, Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, R. das Olhalvas, 2410-197 Leiria, Portugal.
| | - Luís A Passarinha
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; Faculty of Medical Sciences, Universidade da Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal.
| | - Cândida T Tomaz
- CICS-UBI-Centro de Investigação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade da Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal.
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Toivanen PI, Nieminen T, Laakkonen JP, Heikura T, Kaikkonen MU, Ylä-Herttuala S. Snake venom VEGF Vammin induces a highly efficient angiogenic response in skeletal muscle via VEGFR-2/NRP specific signaling. Sci Rep 2017; 7:5525. [PMID: 28717175 PMCID: PMC5514023 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-05876-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGFs) are promising molecules for the treatment of ischemic diseases by pro-angiogenic therapy. Snake venom VEGFs are a novel subgroup with unique receptor binding profiles and as such are potential new therapeutic agents. We determined the ligand-receptor interactions, gene regulation and angiogenic properties of Vipera ammodytes venom VEGF, Vammin, and compared it to the canonical angiogenic factor VEGF-A to evaluate the use of Vammin for therapeutic angiogenesis. Vammin efficiently induced VEGFR-2 mediated proliferation and expression of genes associated with proliferation, migration and angiogenesis. VEGF-A165 and especially VEGF-A109 induced less pronounced effects. Vammin regulates a number of signaling pathways by inducing the expression of NR4A family nuclear receptors and regulators of calcium signaling and MAP kinase pathways. Interestingly, MARC1, which encodes an enzyme discovered to catalyze reduction of nitrate to NO, was identified as a novel VEGFR-2 regulated gene. In rabbit skeletal muscle adenoviral delivery of Vammin induced prominent angiogenic responses. Both the vector dose and the co-receptor binding of the ligand were critical parameters controlling the type of angiogenic response from sprouting angiogenesis to vessel enlargement. Vammin induced VEGFR-2/NRP-1 mediated signaling more effectively than VEGF-A, consequently it is a promising candidate for development of pro-angiogenic therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pyry I Toivanen
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, A.I.Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tiina Nieminen
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, A.I.Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Johanna P Laakkonen
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, A.I.Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tommi Heikura
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, A.I.Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Minna U Kaikkonen
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, A.I.Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Seppo Ylä-Herttuala
- Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, A.I.Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland. .,Heart Center and Gene Therapy Unit, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.
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Kalita B, Patra A, Mukherjee AK. Unraveling the Proteome Composition and Immuno-profiling of Western India Russell's Viper Venom for In-Depth Understanding of Its Pharmacological Properties, Clinical Manifestations, and Effective Antivenom Treatment. J Proteome Res 2017; 16:583-598. [PMID: 27936776 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.6b00693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The proteome composition of western India (WI) Russell's viper venom (RVV) was correlated with pharmacological properties and pathological manifestations of RV envenomation. Proteins in the 5-19 and 100-110 kDa mass ranges were the most predominate (∼35.1%) and least abundant (∼3.4%) components, respectively, of WI RVV. Non-reduced SDS-PAGE indicated the occurrence of multiple subunits, non-covalent oligomers, self-aggregation, and/or interactions among the RVV proteins. A total of 55 proteins belonging to 13 distinct snake venom families were unambiguously identified by ESI-LC-MS/MS analysis. Phospholipase A2 (32.5%) and Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors (12.5%) represented the most abundant enzymatic and non-enzymatic proteins, respectively. However, ATPase, ADPase, and hyaluronidase, detected by enzyme assays, were not identified by proteomic analysis owing to limitations in protein database deposition. Several biochemical and pharmacological properties of WI RVV were also investigated. Neurological symptoms exhibited by some RV-bite patients in WI may be correlated to the presence of neurotoxic phospholipase A2 enzymes and Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor complex in this venom. Monovalent antivenom was found to be better than polyvalent antivenom in immuno-recognition and neutralization of the tested pharmacological properties and enzyme activities of WI RVV; nevertheless, both antivenoms demonstrated poor cross-reactivity and neutralization of pharmacological activities shown by low-molecular-mass proteins (<18 kDa) of this venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhargab Kalita
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University , Tezpur 784028, Assam, India
| | - Aparup Patra
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University , Tezpur 784028, Assam, India
| | - Ashis K Mukherjee
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University , Tezpur 784028, Assam, India
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49
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Huang C, Morlighem JÉR, Zhou H, Lima ÉP, Gomes PB, Cai J, Lou I, Pérez CD, Lee SM, Rádis-Baptista G. The Transcriptome of the Zoanthid Protopalythoa variabilis (Cnidaria, Anthozoa) Predicts a Basal Repertoire of Toxin-like and Venom-Auxiliary Polypeptides. Genome Biol Evol 2016; 8:3045-3064. [PMID: 27566758 PMCID: PMC5630949 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evw204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Protopalythoa is a zoanthid that, together with thousands of predominantly marine species, such as hydra, jellyfish, and sea anemones, composes the oldest eumetazoan phylum, i.e., the Cnidaria. Some of these species, such as sea wasps and sea anemones, are highly venomous organisms that can produce deadly toxins for preying, for defense or for territorial disputes. Despite the fact that hundreds of organic and polypeptide toxins have been characterized from sea anemones and jellyfish, practically nothing is known about the toxin repertoire in zoanthids. Here, based on a transcriptome analysis of the zoanthid Protopalythoa variabilis, numerous predicted polypeptides with canonical venom protein features are identified. These polypeptides comprise putative proteins from different toxin families: neurotoxic peptides, hemostatic and hemorrhagic toxins, membrane-active (pore-forming) proteins, protease inhibitors, mixed-function venom enzymes, and venom auxiliary proteins. The synthesis and functional analysis of two of these predicted toxin products, one related to the ShK/Aurelin family and the other to a recently discovered anthozoan toxin, displayed potent in vivo neurotoxicity that impaired swimming in larval zebrafish. Altogether, the complex array of venom-related transcripts that are identified in P. variabilis, some of which are first reported in Cnidaria, provides novel insight into the toxin distribution among species and might contribute to the understanding of composition and evolution of venom polypeptides in toxiferous animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Jean-Étienne Rl Morlighem
- Northeast Biotechnology Network (RENORBIO), Post-graduation program in Biotechnology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Hefeng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Érica P Lima
- Centro Acadêmico de Vitoria, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Vitória de Santo Antão, Brazil
| | - Paula B Gomes
- Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Jing Cai
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Inchio Lou
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Carlos D Pérez
- Centro Acadêmico de Vitoria, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Vitória de Santo Antão, Brazil
| | - Simon Ming Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Gandhi Rádis-Baptista
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
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50
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Mukherjee AK, Dutta S, Kalita B, Jha DK, Deb P, Mackessy SP. Structural and functional characterization of complex formation between two Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors from Russell's Viper venom. Biochimie 2016; 128-129:138-47. [PMID: 27523780 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2016.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Snake venom Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors (KSPIs) exhibit various biological functions including anticoagulant activity. This study elucidates the occurrence and subunit stoichiometry of a putative complex formed between two KSPIs (Rusvikunin and Rusvikunin-II) purified from the native Rusvikunin complex of Pakistan Russell's Viper (Daboia russelii russelii) venom (RVV). The protein components of the Rusvikunin complex were identified by LC-MS/MS analysis. The non-covalent interaction between two major components of the complex (Rusvikunin and Rusvikunin-II) at 1:2 stoichiometric ratio to form a stable complex was demonstrated by biophysical techniques such as spectrofluorometric, classical gel-filtration, equilibrium gel-filtration, circular dichroism (CD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), RP-HPLC and SDS-PAGE analyses. CD measurement showed that interaction between Rusvikunin and Rusvikunin-II did not change their overall secondary structure; however, the protein complex exhibited enhanced hydrodynamic diameter and anticoagulant activity as compared to the individual components of the complex. This study may lay the foundation for understanding the basis of protein complexes in snake venoms and their role in pathophysiology of snakebite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashis K Mukherjee
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784028, Assam, India; School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA.
| | - Sumita Dutta
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784028, Assam, India
| | - Bhargab Kalita
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784028, Assam, India
| | - Deepak K Jha
- Advanced Functional Material Laboratory, Department of Physics, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784028, Assam, India
| | - Pritam Deb
- Advanced Functional Material Laboratory, Department of Physics, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784028, Assam, India
| | - Stephen P Mackessy
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA
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