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Chary PS, Shaikh S, Rajana N, Bhavana V, Mehra NK. Unlocking nature's arsenal: Nanotechnology for targeted delivery of venom toxins in cancer therapy. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2024; 162:213903. [PMID: 38824828 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2024.213903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
AIM The aim of the present review is to shed light on the nanotechnological approaches adopted to overcome the shortcomings associated with the delivery of venom peptides which possess inherent anti-cancer properties. BACKGROUND Venom peptides although have been reported to demonstrate anti-cancer effects, they suffer from several disadvantages such as in vivo instability, off-target adverse effects, limited drug loading and low bioavailability. This review presents a comprehensive compilation of different classes of nanocarriers while underscoring their advantages, disadvantages and potential to carry such peptide molecules for in vivo delivery. It also discusses various nanotechnological aspects such as methods of fabrication, analytical tools to assess these nanoparticulate formulations, modulation of nanocarrier polymer properties to enhance loading capacity, stability and improve their suitability to carry toxic peptide drugs. CONCLUSION Nanotechnological approaches bear great potential in delivering venom peptide-based molecules as anticancer agents by enhancing their bioavailability, stability, efficacy as well as offering a spatiotemporal delivery approach. However, the challenges associated with toxicity and biocompatibility of nanocarriers must be duly addressed. PERSPECTIVES The everlasting quest for new breakthroughs for safer delivery of venom peptides in human subjects is fuelled by unmet clinical needs in the current landscape of chemotherapy. In addition, exhaustive efforts are required in obtaining and purifying the venom peptides followed by designing and optimizing scale up technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Padakanti Sandeep Chary
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Samia Shaikh
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Naveen Rajana
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Valamla Bhavana
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Neelesh Kumar Mehra
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
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Wiezel GA, Oliveira IS, Reis MB, Ferreira IG, Cordeiro KR, Bordon KCF, Arantes EC. The complex repertoire of Tityus spp. venoms: Advances on their composition and pharmacological potential of their toxins. Biochimie 2024; 220:144-166. [PMID: 38176606 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.12.012] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Animal venoms are a rich and complex source of components, including peptides (such as neurotoxins, anionic peptides and hypotensins), lipids, proteins (such as proteases, hyaluronidases and phospholipases) and inorganic compounds, which affect all biological systems of the envenoming victim. Their action may result in a wide range of clinical manifestations, including tachy/bradycardia, hyper/hypotension, disorders in blood coagulation, pain, edema, inflammation, fever, muscle paralysis, coma and even death. Scorpions are one of the most studied venomous animals in the world and interesting bioactive molecules have been isolated and identified from their venoms over the years. Tityus spp. are among the scorpions with high number of accidents reported in the Americas, especially in Brazil. Their venoms have demonstrated interesting results in the search for novel agents with antimicrobial, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, hypotensive, immunomodulation, anti-insect, antitumor and/or antinociceptive activities. Furthermore, other recent activities still under investigation include drug delivery action, design of anti-epileptic drugs, investigation of sodium channel function, treatment of erectile disfunction and priapism, improvement of scorpion antivenom and chelating molecules activity. In this scenario, this paper focuses on reviewing advances on Tityus venom components mainly through the modern omics technologies as well as addressing potential therapeutic agents from their venoms and highlighting this abundant source of pharmacologically active molecules with biotechnological application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisele A Wiezel
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Isadora S Oliveira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Søtolfts Plads, Building 239 Room 006, Kongens Lyngby, 2800, Denmark.
| | - Mouzarllem B Reis
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Isabela G Ferreira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Kalynka R Cordeiro
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Karla C F Bordon
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Eliane C Arantes
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Avenida Do Café s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Mendoza-Tobar LL, Clement H, Arenas I, Guerrero-Vargas JA, Hernandez-Orihuela L, Cardoso-Arenas S, Sepulveda-Arias JC, Corzo G. Antimicrobial, toxicological, and antigenic characteristics of three scorpion venoms from Colombia: Centruroides margaritatus, Tityus pachyurus and Tityus n. sp. aff. metuendus. Acta Trop 2024; 252:107134. [PMID: 38286350 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107134] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
The venom fractions of three buthid scorpion species from Colombia, C. margaritatus, T. pachyurus and T. n. sp. aff. metuendus, were examined for antimicrobial and toxicity toward mice and insects. The three venoms were separated into individual fractions using RP-HPLC, resulting in 85 fractions from C. margaritatus, 106 from T. pachyurus, and 70 from T. n. sp. aff. metuendus. The major fractions from the three scorpion venoms, which were eluted between 35 and 50 min, were tested for antimicrobial activity and toxicity. It was confirmed that the venom of the three species contains fractions with antimicrobial peptides that were evaluated against two bacterial strains of public health importance, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. The venom of C. margaritatus had two antimicrobial fractions that showed activity against the named tested strains. The venom of T. pachyurus had three fractions that showed activity against S. aureus and two against both bacterial strains. Finally, the venom of T. n. sp. aff. metuendus had one fraction that showed activity against S. aureus, and five fractions showed activity against both bacterial strains. Also, some peptide fractions from the three venoms were toxic to mice. Last, the venoms of C. margaritatus and T. pachyurus were used as immunogens to obtain neutralizing antibodies against its respective venoms and to observe antibody recognition to related and unrelated scorpion venoms. A total of 15 mg of lyophilized antibodies were able to neutralize 1.5⋅LD50 of the venoms from T. n. sp. aff. metuendus, T. pachyurus and C. margaritatus, respectively. This information provides valuable insights into the diversity of each species' venom and their potential role in antimicrobial and venom toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leydy Lorena Mendoza-Tobar
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Grupo Infección e Inmunidad - Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira, Pereira 660003, Colombia; Grupo de Investigaciones Herpetológicas y Toxinológicas, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas-Bioterio, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y de la Educación, Universidad del Cauca, Popayán 190002, Colombia
| | - Herlinda Clement
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM. Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 61500, Mexico
| | - Ivan Arenas
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM. Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 61500, Mexico
| | - Jimmy Alexander Guerrero-Vargas
- Grupo de Investigaciones Herpetológicas y Toxinológicas, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas-Bioterio, Departamento de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Exactas y de la Educación, Universidad del Cauca, Popayán 190002, Colombia
| | - Lorena Hernandez-Orihuela
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM. Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 61500, Mexico
| | - Samuel Cardoso-Arenas
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM. Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 61500, Mexico
| | - Juan Carlos Sepulveda-Arias
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Grupo Infección e Inmunidad - Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira, Pereira 660003, Colombia
| | - Gerardo Corzo
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, UNAM. Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca, Morelos 61500, Mexico.
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Palmer Molina A, Palinkas L, Hernandez Y, Garcia I, Stuart S, Sosna T, Mennen FE. Implementation of the "Healthy Moms, Healthy Kids" Program in Head Start: An Application of the RE-AIM QuEST Framework Centering Equity. ADMINISTRATION AND POLICY IN MENTAL HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2024; 51:69-84. [PMID: 37898595 DOI: 10.1007/s10488-023-01312-8] [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] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Marginalized mothers are disproportionately impacted by depression and face barriers in accessing mental health treatment. Recent efforts have focused on building capacity to address maternal depression in Head Start; however, it is unclear if mental health inequities can be addressed by two-generation programs in Head Start settings. Therefore, this study examined the implementation outcomes and processes of a two-generation program called "Healthy Moms, Healthy Kids" (HMHK) that provided an evidence-based depression treatment to ethnic minority Head Start mothers. METHOD Quantitative and qualitative data were collected and merged in a convergent mixed method design in accordance with the RE-AIM Qualitative Evaluation for Systematic Translation (RE-AIM QuEST) framework. Qualitative data included interviews with 52 key stakeholders, including intervention participants and staff members, and 176 sets of meeting minutes from the implementation period. Quantitative data included intervention study data and administrative data. RESULTS It was difficult for HMHK to reach the target population, with only 16.8% of eligible mothers choosing to participate. However, mothers who participated experienced reductions in depressive symptoms and parenting stress and shared a variety of positive impacts in interviews. The program was also more successful in enrolling Latinx mothers who were Spanish-speaking or bilingual rather than English-speaking and Black/African American mothers, limiting its reach. CONCLUSION Providing IPT therapy groups was effective in reducing maternal depressive symptoms and stress for those who enrolled, but additional work should focus on reducing barriers to participation, considering other delivery models to meet participants' needs, and identifying culturally relevant ways to meet the needs of Black mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lawrence Palinkas
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yuliana Hernandez
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Iliana Garcia
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Todd Sosna
- Optimist Youth Homes, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ferol E Mennen
- Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Darkaoui B, Aksim M, Aarab A, Lafnoune A, Khourcha S, Cadi R, Filali OA, Oukkache N. Neutralization Capacity of Tissue Alterations Caused by the Venoms of the Most Dangerous Scorpions in North Africa Using a Selective Antivenom. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 16:16. [PMID: 38251233 PMCID: PMC10818304 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16010016] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
In North Africa, scorpion stings pose an urgent public health problem, particularly for children with high morbidity and mortality rates. The main species implicated are the Androctonus mauretanicus (Am), Androctonus australis hector (Aah), and Buthus occitanus (Bo). Immunotherapy is the specific therapeutic approach aimed at directly neutralizing toxins, despite their severity and rapid diffusion. In the present study, we evaluate, histologically and immunohistologically, the neutralization potency of the selective antivenom produced against, among other species, the Am, Aah, and Bo at the level of the tissue alterations in Swiss mice, as experimental subjects. Firstly, the lethal doses 50 test was conducted to assess the venom's toxic activity, and then the median effective dose of the antivenom was determined against each venom. The histological and immunohistological analyses were performed by injecting the sublethal dose of venom, the complex venom and antivenom, or the antivenom 2 h following inoculation of venom. Our study revealed the highest toxicity of the Am, followed by the Aah and then the Bo venom. The neutralizing ability and effectiveness of the antivenom to completely or partially neutralize the tissular damages were demonstrated in all organs studied: brain, heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys. Our results highlighted the important cytoplasmic and membranous staining in the heart compared to the brain tissue for the three scorpion venoms. Therefore, the scorpionic antivenoms are able to reach their target even at the tissue level. Immunotherapy represents the specific and recommended treatment against the scorpionic stings in North Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bouchra Darkaoui
- Laboratory of Venoms and Toxins, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca 20250, Morocco; (B.D.); (A.L.); (S.K.)
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Physiopathology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences Ain Chock, Hassan II University of Casablanca, B.P 5366 Maarif, Casablanca 20000, Morocco; (R.C.); (O.A.F.)
| | - Mohamed Aksim
- Laboratory of Anatomic Pathology, The Regional Hospital Centre Hassan II, Agadir 80000, Morocco;
| | - Ayoub Aarab
- Laboratory of Anatomical Pathology Marrakech, Agadir 80000, Morocco;
| | - Ayoub Lafnoune
- Laboratory of Venoms and Toxins, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca 20250, Morocco; (B.D.); (A.L.); (S.K.)
| | - Soukaina Khourcha
- Laboratory of Venoms and Toxins, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca 20250, Morocco; (B.D.); (A.L.); (S.K.)
| | - Rachida Cadi
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Physiopathology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences Ain Chock, Hassan II University of Casablanca, B.P 5366 Maarif, Casablanca 20000, Morocco; (R.C.); (O.A.F.)
| | - Ouafaa Aniq Filali
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Physiopathology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences Ain Chock, Hassan II University of Casablanca, B.P 5366 Maarif, Casablanca 20000, Morocco; (R.C.); (O.A.F.)
| | - Naoual Oukkache
- Laboratory of Venoms and Toxins, Pasteur Institute of Morocco, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca 20250, Morocco; (B.D.); (A.L.); (S.K.)
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Nystrom GS, Ellsworth SA, Ward MJ, Rokyta DR. Varying Modes of Selection Among Toxin Families in the Venoms of the Giant Desert Hairy Scorpions (Hadrurus). J Mol Evol 2023; 91:935-962. [PMID: 38091038 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-023-10148-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Venoms are primarily believed to evolve under strong diversifying selection resulting from persistent coevolution between predator and prey. Recent research has challenged this hypothesis, proposing that venoms from younger venomous lineages (e.g., snakes and cone snails) are governed predominantly by diversifying selection, while venoms from older venomous lineages (e.g., centipedes, scorpions, and spiders) are under stronger purifying selection. However, most research in older lineages has tested selection at more diverse phylogenetic scales. Although these tests are important for evaluating broad macroevolutionary trends underlying venom evolution, they are less equipped to detect species-level evolutionary trends, which likely have large impacts on venom variation seen at more diverse phylogenetic scales. To test for selection among closely related species from an older venomous lineage, we generated high-throughput venom-gland transcriptomes and venom proteomes for four populations of Giant Desert Hairy Scorpions (Hadrurus), including three Hadrurus arizonensis populations and one Hadrurus spadix population. We detected significant episodic and pervasive diversifying selection across a highly abundant toxin family that likely has a major role in venom function ([Formula: see text]KTxs), providing a contrast to the stronger purifying selection identified from other studies on scorpion venoms. Conversely, we detected weak episodic diversifying and/or stronger purifying selection in four toxin families (non-disulfide bridged peptides, phospholipase A2s, scorpine-like antimicrobial peptides, and serine proteases), most of which were less abundant and likely have ancillary functional roles. Finally, although we detected several major toxin families at disproportionate transcriptomic and/or proteomic abundances, we did not identify significant sex-based variation in Hadrurus venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunnar S Nystrom
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, 319 Stadium Dr., Tallahassee, FL, 32306-4295, USA
| | - Schyler A Ellsworth
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, 319 Stadium Dr., Tallahassee, FL, 32306-4295, USA
| | - Micaiah J Ward
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, 319 Stadium Dr., Tallahassee, FL, 32306-4295, USA
| | - Darin R Rokyta
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, 319 Stadium Dr., Tallahassee, FL, 32306-4295, USA.
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Xia Z, He D, Wu Y, Kwok HF, Cao Z. Scorpion venom peptides: Molecular diversity, structural characteristics, and therapeutic use from channelopathies to viral infections and cancers. Pharmacol Res 2023; 197:106978. [PMID: 37923027 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Animal venom is an important evolutionary innovation in nature. As one of the most representative animal venoms, scorpion venom contains an extremely diverse set of bioactive peptides. Scorpion venom peptides not only are 'poisons' that immobilize, paralyze, kill, or dissolve preys but also become important candidates for drug development and design. Here, the review focuses on the molecular diversity of scorpion venom peptides, their typical structural characteristics, and their multiple therapeutic or pharmaceutical applications in channelopathies, viral infections and cancers. Especially, the group of scorpion toxin TRPTx targeting transient receptor potential (TRP) channels is systematically summarized and worthy of attention because TRP channels play a crucial role in the regulation of homeostasis and the occurrence of diseases in human. We also further establish the potential relationship between the molecular characteristics and functional applications of scorpion venom peptides to provide a research basis for modern drug development and clinical utilization of scorpion venom resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Xia
- School of Biological and Food Processing Engineering, Huanghuai University, Zhumadian, China
| | - Dangui He
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macao; Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macao
| | - Yingliang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hang Fai Kwok
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macao; Cancer Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macao; MoE Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macao.
| | - Zhijian Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Bio-drug Research Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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Nasr S, Borges A, Sahyoun C, Nasr R, Roufayel R, Legros C, Sabatier JM, Fajloun Z. Scorpion Venom as a Source of Antimicrobial Peptides: Overview of Biomolecule Separation, Analysis and Characterization Methods. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1380. [PMID: 37760677 PMCID: PMC10525675 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12091380] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Scorpion venoms have long captivated scientific researchers, primarily due to the potency and specificity of the mechanism of action of their derived components. Among other molecules, these venoms contain highly active compounds, including antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and ion channel-specific components that selectively target biological receptors with remarkable affinity. Some of these receptors have emerged as prime therapeutic targets for addressing various human pathologies, including cancer and infectious diseases, and have served as models for designing novel drugs. Consequently, extensive biochemical and proteomic investigations have focused on characterizing scorpion venoms. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the key methodologies used in the extraction, purification, analysis, and characterization of AMPs and other bioactive molecules present in scorpion venoms. Noteworthy techniques such as gel electrophoresis, reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, size exclusion chromatography, and "omics" approaches are explored, along with various combinations of methods that enable bioassay-guided venom fractionation. Furthermore, this review presents four adapted proteomic workflows that lead to the comprehensive dissection of the scorpion venom proteome, with an emphasis on AMPs. These workflows differ based on whether the venom is pre-fractionated using separation techniques or is proteolytically digested directly before further proteomic analyses. Since the composition and functionality of scorpion venoms are species-specific, the selection and sequence of the techniques for venom analyses, including these workflows, should be tailored to the specific parameters of the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Nasr
- Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology (LBA3B), Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and Its Applications, EDST, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (S.N.); (C.S.)
| | - Adolfo Borges
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de Toxinas y Receptores, Instituto de Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas 50587, Venezuela;
- Centro para el Desarrollo de la Investigación Científica, Asunción 1255, Paraguay
| | - Christina Sahyoun
- Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology (LBA3B), Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and Its Applications, EDST, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (S.N.); (C.S.)
- Univ Angers, INSERM, CNRS, MITOVASC, Team 2 CarMe, SFR ICAT, 49000 Angers, France
| | - Riad Nasr
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Public Health 3, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1200, Lebanon;
| | - Rabih Roufayel
- College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Egaila 54200, Kuwait;
| | - Christian Legros
- Univ Angers, INSERM, CNRS, MITOVASC, Team 2 CarMe, SFR ICAT, 49000 Angers, France
| | - Jean-Marc Sabatier
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, INP, Inst Neurophysiopathol, 13385 Marseille, France
| | - Ziad Fajloun
- Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology (LBA3B), Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and Its Applications, EDST, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (S.N.); (C.S.)
- Faculty of Sciences 3, Department of Biology, Lebanese University, Campus Michel Slayman Ras Maska, Tripoli 1352, Lebanon
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García-Villalvazo PE, Jiménez-Vargas JM, Lino-López GJ, Meneses EP, Bermúdez-Guzmán MDJ, Barajas-Saucedo CE, Delgado Enciso I, Possani LD, Valdez-Velazquez LL. Unveiling the Protein Components of the Secretory-Venom Gland and Venom of the Scorpion Centruroides possanii (Buthidae) through Omic Technologies. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:498. [PMID: 37624255 PMCID: PMC10467079 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15080498] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Centruroides possanii is a recently discovered species of "striped scorpion" found in Mexico. Certain species of Centruroides are known to be toxic to mammals, leading to numerous cases of human intoxications in the country. Venom components are thought to possess therapeutic potential and/or biotechnological applications. Hence, obtaining and analyzing the secretory gland transcriptome and venom proteome of C. possanii is relevant, and that is what is described in this communication. Since this is a newly described species, first, its LD50 to mice was determined and estimated to be 659 ng/g mouse weight. Using RNA extracted from this species and preparing their corresponding cDNA fragments, a transcriptome analysis was obtained on a Genome Analyzer (Illumina) using the 76-base pair-end sequencing protocol. Via high-throughput sequencing, 19,158,736 reads were obtained and ensembled in 835,204 sequences. Of them, 28,399 transcripts were annotated with Pfam. A total of 244 complete transcripts were identified in the transcriptome of C. possanii. Of these, 109 sequences showed identity to toxins that act on ion channels, 47 enzymes, 17 protease inhibitors (PINs), 11 defense peptides (HDPs), and 60 in other components. In addition, a sample of the soluble venom obtained from this scorpion was analyzed using an Orbitrap Velos apparatus, which allowed for identification by liquid chromatography followed by mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) of 70 peptides and proteins: 23 toxins, 27 enzymes, 6 PINs, 3 HDPs, and 11 other components. Until now, this work has the highest number of scorpion venom components identified through omics technologies. The main novel findings described here were analyzed in comparison with the known data from the literature, and this process permitted some new insights in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juana María Jiménez-Vargas
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad de Colima, Colima 28400, Mexico; (P.E.G.-V.); (J.M.J.-V.); (C.E.B.-S.)
- Consejo Nacional de Humanidades, Ciencia y Tecnología (CONAHCYT), Mexico City 03940, Mexico
| | - Gisela Jareth Lino-López
- Centro Nacional de Referencia de Control Biológico, Dirección General de Sanidad Vegetal SENASICASADER, Colima 28110, Mexico;
| | - Erika Patricia Meneses
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico;
| | | | | | | | - Lourival Domingos Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico;
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10
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Nystrom GS, Ellsworth SA, Rokyta DR. The remarkably enzyme-rich venom of the Big Bend Scorpion (Diplocentrus whitei). Toxicon 2023; 226:107080. [PMID: 36907567 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Scorpion venoms have long been studied for their peptide discovery potential, with modern high-throughput venom-characterization techniques paving the way for the discovery of thousands of novel putative toxins. Research into these toxins has provided insight into the pathology and treatment of human diseases, even resulting in the development of one compound with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. Although most of this research has focused on the toxins of scorpion species considered medically significant to humans, the venom of harmless scorpion species possess toxins that are homologous to those from medically significant species, indicating that harmless scorpion venoms may also serve as valuable sources of novel peptide variants. Furthermore, as harmless scorpions represent a vast majority of scorpion species diversity, and therefore venom toxin diversity, venoms from these species likely contain entirely new toxin classes. We sequenced the venom-gland transcriptome and venom proteome of two male Big Bend scorpions (Diplocentrus whitei), providing the first high-throughput venom characterization for a member of this genus. We identified a total of 82 toxins in the venom of D. whitei, 25 of which were identified in both the transcriptome and proteome, and 57 of which were only identified in the transcriptome. Furthermore, we identified a unique, enzyme-rich venom dominated by serine proteases and the first arylsulfatase B toxins identified in scorpions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunnar S Nystrom
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306, USA
| | - Schyler A Ellsworth
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306, USA
| | - Darin R Rokyta
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, 32306, USA.
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11
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Pashmforoosh N, Baradaran M. Peptides with Diverse Functions from Scorpion Venom: A Great Opportunity for the Treatment of a Wide Variety of Diseases. IRANIAN BIOMEDICAL JOURNAL 2023; 27:84-99. [PMID: 37070616 PMCID: PMC10314758 DOI: 10.61186/ibj.3863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Toxicology Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran The venom glands are a rich source of biologically important peptides with pharmaceutical properties. Scorpion venoms have been identified as a reservoir for components that might be considered as great candidates for drug development. Pharmacological properties of the venom compounds have been confirmed in the treatment of different disorders. Ion channel blockers and AMPs are the main groups of scorpion venom components. Despite the existence of several studies about scorpion peptides, there are still valuable components to be discovered. Additionally, owing to the improvement of proteomics and transcriptomics, the number of peptide drugs is steadily increasing, which reflects the importance of these medications. This review evaluates available literatures on some important scorpion venom peptides with pharmaceutical activities. Given that the last three years have been dominated by the COVID-19 from the medical/pharmaceutical perspective, scorpion compounds with the potential against the coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masoumeh Baradaran
- Corresponding Author: Masoumeh Baradaran Toxicology Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; E-mail:
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12
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Bioactive peptides from scorpion venoms: therapeutic scaffolds and pharmacological tools. Chin J Nat Med 2023; 21:19-35. [PMID: 36641229 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(23)60382-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Evolution and natural selection have endowed animal venoms, including scorpion venoms, with a wide range of pharmacological properties. Consequently, scorpions, their venoms, and/or their body parts have been used since time immemorial in traditional medicines, especially in Africa and Asia. With respect to their pharmacological potential, bioactive peptides from scorpion venoms have become an important source of scientific research. With the rapid increase in the characterization of various components from scorpion venoms, a large number of peptides are identified with an aim of combating a myriad of emerging global health problems. Moreover, some scorpion venom-derived peptides have been established as potential scaffolds helpful for drug development. In this review, we summarize the promising scorpion venoms-derived peptides as drug candidates. Accordingly, we highlight the data and knowledge needed for continuous characterization and development of additional natural peptides from scorpion venoms, as potential drugs that can treat related diseases.
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13
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Menezes LFS, Maranhão MM, Tibery DV, de Souza ACB, da Mata DO, Campos LA, Souza AA, Freitas SMD, Schwartz EF. Ts17, a Tityus serrulatus β-toxin structurally related to α-scorpion toxins. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. BIOMEMBRANES 2023; 1865:184057. [PMID: 36240866 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2022.184057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Ts17 was purified from the venom of the scorpion Tityus serrulatus, the most dangerous scorpion species in Brazil. The activity on Nav1.1-Nav1.7 channels was electrophysiologically characterized by patch-clamp technique. Ts17 amino acid sequence indicated high similarity to alpha-scorpion toxins; however, it presented beta-toxin activity, altering the kinetics of the Na+-channels. The most affected subtypes during activation (with and without prepulse) and inactivation phases were Nav1.2 and Nav1.5, respectively. For recovery from inactivation, the most affected voltage-gated sodium channel was Nav1.5. Circular dichroism spectra showed that Ts17 presents mainly β-sheet and unordered structures at all analyzed pHs, and the maximum value of α-helix was found at pH 4.0 (13.3 %). Based on the results, Ts17 might be used as a template to develop a new cardiac drug. Key contribution Purification of Ts17 from Tityus serrulatus, electrophysiological characterization of Ts17 on voltage-gated sodium channel subtypes, β-toxin classification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Felipe Santos Menezes
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Mariza Mendanha Maranhão
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Diogo Vieira Tibery
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Adolfo Carlos Barros de Souza
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Daniel Oliveira da Mata
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Leandro Ambrósio Campos
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Distrito Federal, Brazil; Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Paulista, Brasília 70390-130, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Amanda Araújo Souza
- Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory (LNBio), National Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), Campinas 13083-970, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sonia Maria de Freitas
- Laboratório de Biofísica Molecular, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Elisabeth Ferroni Schwartz
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, Distrito Federal, Brazil.
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14
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Yang Y, Zhu Y, Luo Y, Liu Q, Hua X, Li J, Gao F, Hofer J, Gao X, Xiao L, Song X, Gao S, Hao R. Transcriptome analysis of Mesobuthus martensii revealed the differences of their toxins between females and males. THE EUROPEAN ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/24750263.2022.2143584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Y. Yang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, TaiGu, China
| | - Y. Zhu
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Y. Luo
- Central Medical District of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Q. Liu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, TaiGu, China
| | - X. Hua
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - J. Li
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - F. Gao
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - J. Hofer
- Instituto de Ciencias Marinas Y Limnológicas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - X. Gao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, TaiGu, China
| | - L. Xiao
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - X. Song
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - S. Gao
- Faculty of Naval Medicine, Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - R. Hao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, TaiGu, China
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15
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Ghezellou P, Jakob K, Atashi J, Ghassempour A, Spengler B. Mass-Spectrometry-Based Lipidome and Proteome Profiling of Hottentotta saulcyi (Scorpiones: Buthidae) Venom. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14060370. [PMID: 35737031 PMCID: PMC9228814 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14060370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpion venom is a complex secretory mixture of components with potential biological and physiological properties that attracted many researchers due to promising applications from clinical and pharmacological perspectives. In this study, we investigated the venom of the Iranian scorpion Hottentotta saulcyi (Simon, 1880) by applying mass-spectrometry-based proteomic and lipidomic approaches to assess the diversity of components present in the venom. The data revealed that the venom’s proteome composition is largely dominated by Na+- and K+-channel-impairing toxic peptides, following the enzymatic and non-enzymatic protein families, e.g., angiotensin-converting enzyme, serine protease, metalloprotease, hyaluronidase, carboxypeptidase, and cysteine-rich secretory peptide. Furthermore, lipids comprise ~1.2% of the dry weight of the crude venom. Phospholipids, ether-phospholipids, oxidized-phospholipids, triacylglycerol, cardiolipins, very-long-chain sphingomyelins, and ceramides were the most intensely detected lipid species in the scorpion venom, may acting either independently or synergistically during the envenomation alongside proteins and peptides. The results provide detailed information on the chemical makeup of the venom, helping to improve our understanding of biological molecules present in it, leading to a better insight of the medical significance of the venom, and improving the medical care of patients suffering from scorpion accidents in the relevant regions such as Iran, Iraq, Turkey, and Afghanistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parviz Ghezellou
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany;
- Correspondence: (P.G.); (B.S.)
| | - Kevin Jakob
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany;
| | - Javad Atashi
- Medicinal Plants and Drugs Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran 1983969411, Iran; (J.A.); (A.G.)
| | - Alireza Ghassempour
- Medicinal Plants and Drugs Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran 1983969411, Iran; (J.A.); (A.G.)
| | - Bernhard Spengler
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany;
- Correspondence: (P.G.); (B.S.)
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16
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de Melo MMA, Oliveira VDS, de Queiroz Neto MF, Paiva WDS, Torres-Rêgo M, Silva SRB, Pontes DDL, Rocha HAO, de Souza MÂF, da Silva-Júnior AA, Fernandes-Pedrosa MDF. TanP: A Multifunctional Anionic Peptide From Tityus stigmurus Scorpion Venom. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 8:785316. [PMID: 35111812 PMCID: PMC8802776 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.785316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Anionic peptides of scorpions are molecules rich in aspartic and/or glutamic acid residues and correspond to a class of peptides without disulfide bonds that are still little explored. TanP is a linear anionic peptide (50 amino acid residues and net charge -20) present in the venom gland of the scorpion, Tityus stigmurus, with chelating properties for Cu2+ ion and immunomodulatory properties. The therapeutic application of chelating molecules is related to cases of acute or chronic intoxication by metals, neurodegenerative diseases, hematological diseases, healing of skin wounds, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. In this approach, the chelating activity of TanP was evaluated in relation to new metal ions (Fe2+ and Zn2+) of biological importance, as well as its antioxidant, hemostatic, immunomodulatory, and healing potential, aiming to expand the biological and biotechnological potential of this peptide. TanP (25 µM) was able to form stable complexes with Fe2+ in a ratio of 1:5 (TanP: Fe2+). Theoretical results suggest that TanP can work as a sensor to identify and quantify Fe2+ ions. The fluorescence intensity of TanP (1.12 µM) decreased significantly after the addition of Fe2+, obtaining the highest ratio 1: 7.4 (TanP: Fe2+) that led to the lowest fluorescence intensity. For Zn2+, no relevant spectral change was noted. TanP (50 µM) showed a maximum of 3% of hemolytic activity, demonstrating biocompatibility, as well as exhibiting a 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging activity of above 70% at all the concentrations tested (1-25 μM), and 89.7% iron-chelating activity at 25 μM and 96% hydroxyl radical-scavenging activity at 73.6 μM. In addition, TanP (12.5 and 25 µM) revealed an anticoagulant effect, prolonging the clotting time in prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time assays, with no fibrinogenolytic activity. TanP (12.5 and 25 µM) induced the release of TNF-α by murine macrophages, in the absence of lipopolysaccharides, with a concentration-dependent increase and also stimulated the migration of 3T3 cells in the in vitro healing assay. Thus, TanP revealed a multifunctional potential, being useful as a prototype for the development of new therapeutic and biotechnological agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menilla Maria Alves de Melo
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Verônica da Silva Oliveira
- Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry and Polymers, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Moacir Fernandes de Queiroz Neto
- Laboratory of Natural Polymer Biotechnology, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Weslley de Souza Paiva
- Laboratory of Natural Polymer Biotechnology, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Manoela Torres-Rêgo
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
- Laboratory of Synthesis and Isolation of Organic Compounds, Chemistry Institute, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Daniel de Lima Pontes
- Laboratory of Coordination Chemistry and Polymers, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Hugo Alexandre Oliveira Rocha
- Laboratory of Natural Polymer Biotechnology, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Arnóbio Antônio da Silva-Júnior
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
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El Hidan MA, Laaradia MA, El Hiba O, Draoui A, Aimrane A, Kahime K. Scorpion-Derived Antiviral Peptides with a Special Focus on Medically Important Viruses: An Update. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:9998420. [PMID: 34527748 PMCID: PMC8437663 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9998420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The global burden of viral infection, especially the current pandemics of SARS-CoV-2, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis, is a very risky one. Additionally, HCV expresses the necessity for antiviral therapeutic elements. Venoms are known to contain an array of bioactive peptides that are commonly used in the treatment of various medical issues. Several peptides isolated from scorpion venom have recently been proven to possess an antiviral activity against several viral families. The aim of this review is to provide an up-to-date overview of scorpion antiviral peptides and to discuss their modes of action and potential biomedical application against different viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moulay Abdelmonaim El Hidan
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Valorization of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | | | - Omar El Hiba
- Nutritional Physiopathology Team, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, El Jadida 24000, Morocco
| | - Ahmed Draoui
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Neurosciences and Environment, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco
| | - Abdelmohcine Aimrane
- Nutritional Physiopathology Team, Faculty of Sciences, Chouaib Doukkali University, El Jadida 24000, Morocco
- Metabolic Platform, Biochemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Cadi Ayad University, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Kholoud Kahime
- SAEDD Laboratory, School of Technology Essaouira, Cadi Ayyad University of Marrakesh, Morocco
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Yadav V, Misra R. A review emphasizing on utility of heptad repeat sequence as a tool to design pharmacologically safe peptide-based antibiotics. Biochimie 2021; 191:126-139. [PMID: 34492334 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Extensive usage of antibiotics has created an unprecedented scenario of the rapid emergence of many drug-resistant bacteria, which has become an alarming public health concern around the globe. Search for better alternatives that are as efficacious as antibiotics led to the discovery of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). These small cationic amphiphilic peptides have emerged as a promising option as antimicrobial agents, owing to their multifaceted implications against varied pathogens. Recent years have witnessed tremendous growth in research on AMPs resulting in them being tested in clinical trials of which six got approved for topical application. The relatively less successful outcome has been attributed to the poor cell selectivity shown by most of the naturally occurring AMPs. This drawback needs to be circumvented by identifying strategies to design safe and effective peptides. In the present review, we have emphasized the importance of heptad repeat sequence (leucine and/or phenylalanine zipper motif) as a tool that has shown great promise in remodeling the toxic AMPs to safe antimicrobial agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Yadav
- Department of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research Centre, Skåne University Hospital, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden; Interdisciplinary Cluster for Applied Genoproteomics (GIGA), University of Liège (ULiège), Liège, Belgium.
| | - Richa Misra
- Department of Zoology, Sri Venkateswara College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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19
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He D, Cao Z, Zhang R, Li W. Molecular Cloning and Functional Identification of the Antimicrobial Peptide Gene Ctri9594 from the Venom of the Scorpion Chaerilus tricostatus. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10080896. [PMID: 34438946 PMCID: PMC8388681 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10080896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpion venom is a mixture of bioactive peptides, among which neurotoxins and antimicrobial peptides serve especially vital functions. Scorpion venom peptides in Buthidae species have been well described, but toxic peptides from non-Buthidae species have been under-investigated. Here, an antimicrobial peptide gene, Ctri9594, was cloned and functionally identified from the venom of the scorpion Chaerilus tricostatus. The precursor nucleotide sequence of Ctri9594 is 199 nt in length, including a 43 nt 5′ UTR, 115 nt 3′ UTR and 210 nt ORF. The ORF encodes 69 amino acid residues, containing a 21 aa signal peptide, 14 aa mature peptide, 3 aa C-terminal posttranslational processing signal and 31 aa propeptide. Multiple sequence alignment and evolutionary analyses show that Ctri9594 is an antimicrobial peptide in scorpion venom. The mature peptide of Ctri9594 was chemically synthesized with a purity greater than 95% and a molecular mass of 1484.4 Da. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) indicate that the synthesized mature peptide of Ctri9594 has inhibitory activity against Gram-positive bacteria (Bacillus thuringensis, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus luteus) but not Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) or a fungus (Candida albicans). The antimicrobial mechanism of Ctri9594 is inferred to be related to its amphiphilic α-helix structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dangui He
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China;
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China;
| | - Zhijian Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China;
| | - Ruhong Zhang
- Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430200, China
- Correspondence: (R.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Wenhua Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China;
- Correspondence: (R.Z.); (W.L.)
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20
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Jiménez-Vargas JM, Ramírez-Carreto S, Corzo G, Possani LD, Becerril B, Ortiz E. Structural and functional characterization of NDBP-4 family antimicrobial peptides from the scorpion Mesomexovis variegatus. Peptides 2021; 141:170553. [PMID: 33862164 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2021.170553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Six peptides, belonging to the NDBP-4 family of scorpion antimicrobial peptides were structurally and functionally characterized. The sequence of the mature peptides VpCT1, VpCT2, VpCT3 and VpCT4 was inferred by transcriptomic analysis of the venom gland of the scorpion Mesomexovis variegatus. Analysis of their amino acid sequences revealed patterns that are also present in previously reported peptides that show differences in their hemolytic and antimicrobial activities in vitro. Two other variants, VpCT3W and VpCTConsensus were designed to evaluate the effect of sequence changes of interest on their structure and activity. The synthesized peptides were evaluated by circular dichroism to confirm their α-helical conformation in a folding promoting medium. The peptides were assayed on two Gram-positive and three Gram-negative bacterial strains, and on two yeast strains. They preferentially inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, were mostly ineffective on Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and moderately inhibited the growth of Candida yeasts. All six peptides exhibited hemolytic activity on human erythrocytes in the range of 4.8-83.7 μM. VpCT3W displayed increased hemolytic and anti-yeast activities, but showed no change in antibacterial activity, relative to its parental peptide, suggesting that Trp6 may potentiate the interaction of VpCT3 with eukaryotic cell membranes. VpCTConsensus showed broader and enhanced antimicrobial activity relative to several of the natural peptides. The results presented here contribute new information on the structure and function of NDBP-4 antimicrobial peptides and provides clues for the design of less hemolytic and more effective antimicrobial peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juana María Jiménez-Vargas
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico; Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACyT), CDMX, Mexico
| | - Santos Ramírez-Carreto
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - Gerardo Corzo
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - Lourival D Possani
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - Baltazar Becerril
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - Ernesto Ortiz
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico.
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21
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Xu X, Xu H, Ren F, Huang L, Xu J, Li F. Protective effect of scorpion venom heat-resistant synthetic peptide against PM 2.5-induced microglial polarization via TLR4-mediated autophagy activating PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway. J Neuroimmunol 2021; 355:577567. [PMID: 33887539 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2021.577567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a considerable risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. Scorpion venom heat-resistant synthetic peptide (SVHRSP) plays a neuroprotective effect by promoting neurogenesis and neuron axon growth. In this study, SVHRSP inhibited the level of TLR4, autophagy and PM2.5-induced microglia M1 polarization, thereby promoting Phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT, inhibiting the expression of NF-κB. Moreover, SVHRSP suppressed the cytotoxic factors and increased the cytoprotective factor. This research demonstrates that SVHRSP relieves PM2.5-induced microglial polarization via TLR4-mediated autophagy activating PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway, which provides new insights for the treatment of PM2.5-induced neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Xu
- College of Medical Laboratory, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Henggui Xu
- College of Medical Laboratory, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Fei Ren
- College of Medical Laboratory, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Lanyi Huang
- College of Medical Laboratory, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jingbin Xu
- College of Medical Laboratory, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Fasheng Li
- College of Medical Laboratory, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, Liaoning Province, China; National-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Drug-Research and Development (R & D) of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116044, Liaoning Province, China.
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22
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Daniele-Silva A, Rodrigues SDCS, Dos Santos ECG, Queiroz Neto MFD, Rocha HADO, Silva-Júnior AAD, Resende JM, Araújo RM, Fernandes-Pedrosa MDF. NMR three-dimensional structure of the cationic peptide Stigmurin from Tityus stigmurus scorpion venom: In vitro antioxidant and in vivo antibacterial and healing activity. Peptides 2021; 137:170478. [PMID: 33359395 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2020.170478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases and the rapid development of pathogens resistant to conventional drugs are a serious global public health problem, which motivates the search for new pharmacological agents. In this context, cationic peptides without disulfide bridges from different species of scorpion venom have been the target of scientific studies due to their multifunctional activities. Stigmurin is a linear peptide composed of 17 amino acid residues (Phe-Phe-Ser-Leu-Ile-Pro-Ser-Leu-Val-Gly-Gly-Leu-Ile-Ser-Ala-Phe-Lys-NH2), which is present in the venom gland of the scorpion Tityus stigmurus. Here we present investigations of the in vitro antioxidant action of Stigmurin together with the in vivo antibacterial and healing activity of this peptide in a wound infection model induced by Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, we have reports for the first time of the three-dimensional structure determined by NMR spectroscopy of a peptide without disulfide bridges present in scorpion venom from the Tityus genus. Stigmurin showed hydroxyl radical scavenging above 70 % at 10 μM and antibiotic action in the skin wound, reducing the number of viable microorganisms by 67.2 % on the 7 day after infection. Stigmurin (1 μg / μL) increased the retraction rate of the lesion, with wound area reduction of 43 % on the second day after skin injury, which indicates its ability to induce tissue repair. Stigmurin in trifluoroethanol:water exhibited a random conformation at the N-terminus region (Phe1 to Pro6), with a helical structure from Ser7 to Phe16. This structural information, allied with the multifunctional activity of Stigmurin, makes it an attractive candidate for the design of novel therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Daniele-Silva
- Laboratório de Tecnologia e Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Suedson de Carvalho Silva Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Isolamento e Síntese de Compostos Orgânicos, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Moacir Fernandes de Queiroz Neto
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Polímeros Naturais, Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Hugo Alexandre de Oliveira Rocha
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Polímeros Naturais, Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Arnóbio Antônio da Silva-Júnior
- Laboratório de Tecnologia e Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Departamento de Farmácia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
| | - Jarbas Magalhães Resende
- Laboratório de Síntese e Estrutura de Peptídeos, Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Renata Mendonça Araújo
- Laboratório de Isolamento e Síntese de Compostos Orgânicos, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil
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Tamura M, Tatsushiro C, Morita EH, Ohki S. Overexpression and purification of a toxic peptide LaIT2 from Japanese scorpion, Liocheles australasiae. Protein Expr Purif 2021; 182:105835. [PMID: 33548456 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2021.105835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
In Japan, there are two species of scorpions, Madara scorpion (Isometrus maculatus) and Yaeyama scorpion (Liocheles australasiae), and both of them are living in Yaeyama island. It has been shown that Liocheles australasiae has venom including β-toxin acting on K+-channels (β-KTx) (Juichi et al., 2018) [1]. Interestingly, LaIT2, one of the toxins found in the venom of Liocheles australasiae, displays the virulence for insects but almost not for mammals. Until now, molecular mechanism of the functional specificity of LaIT2 is unknown. To clear this issue, we tried to establish the overexpression system of LaIT2 in Rosetta-gami B (DE3) pLysS, which have trxB/gor mutations to induce the disulfide bond formation. In this study, we have succeeded to overexpress the recombinant LaIT2 (rLaIT2) as a thioredoxin (Trx)-tagged protein, and established the purification protocol with Ni2+-NTA column chromatography, enterokinase digestion, and HPLC. We succeeded to obtain approximately 0.5 mg of rLaIT2 from the E. coli cells cultured in 1 L of M9 culture medium. Intramolecular disulfide bonding pattern of rLaIT2 was identified by endopeptidase fragmentation and mass spectrometry. rLaIT2 showed insecticidal activity and antimicrobial activity, and these are almost identical to those of natural LaIT2. 1H-15N HSQC spectrum of 15N-labeled rLaIT2 indicated that the rLaIT2 has a stable conformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maiki Tamura
- Graduate School of Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST), 1-1 Asahidai, Nomi, Ishikawa, 923-1292, Japan
| | - Chiharu Tatsushiro
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Josai University, 1-1Keyakidai, Sakado-shi, Saitama, 350-0295, Japan
| | - Eugene Hayato Morita
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Josai University, 1-1Keyakidai, Sakado-shi, Saitama, 350-0295, Japan
| | - Shinya Ohki
- Graduate School of Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST), 1-1 Asahidai, Nomi, Ishikawa, 923-1292, Japan.
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Ahmed LA, Abdou FY, El Fiky AA, Shaaban EA, Ain-Shoka AA. Bradykinin-Potentiating Activity of a Gamma-Irradiated Bioactive Fraction Isolated from Scorpion (Leiurus quinquestriatus) Venom in Rats with Doxorubicin-Induced Acute Cardiotoxicity: Favorable Modulation of Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory, Fibrogenic and Apoptotic Pathways. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2021; 21:127-141. [PMID: 32860604 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-020-09602-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Although doxorubicin (Dox) is a backbone of chemotherapy, the search for an effective and safe therapy to revoke Dox-induced acute cardiotoxicity remains a critical matter in cardiology and oncology. The current study was the first to explore the probable protective effects of native and gamma-irradiated fractions with bradykinin-potentiating activity (BPA) isolated from scorpion (Leiurus quinquestriatus) venom against Dox-induced acute cardiotoxicity in rats. Native or irradiated fractions (1 μg/g) were administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) twice per week for 3 weeks, and Dox (15 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered on day 21 at 1 h after the last native or irradiated fraction treatment. Electrocardiographic (ECG) aberrations were ameliorated in the Dox-treated rats pretreated with the native fraction, and the irradiated fraction provided greater amelioration of ECG changes than that of the native fraction. The group pretreated with native protein with BPA also exhibited significant improvements in the levels of oxidative stress-related, inflammatory, angiogenic, fibrogenic, and apoptotic markers compared with those of the Dox group. Notably, the irradiated fraction restored these biomarkers to their normal levels. Additionally, the irradiated fraction ameliorated Dox-induced histological changes and alleviated the severity of cardiac injury to a greater extent than that of the native fraction. In conclusion, the gamma-irradiated detoxified fraction of scorpion venom elicited a better cardioprotective effect than that of the native fraction against Dox-induced acute cardiotoxicity in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamiaa A Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El Aini St., Cairo, 11562, Egypt.
| | - Fatma Y Abdou
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Nasr, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Abir A El Fiky
- ANDI Center of Excellence in Antivenom Research, Vacsera, Egypt
| | - Esmat A Shaaban
- Department of Drug Radiation Research, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Nasr, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Afaf A Ain-Shoka
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Kasr El Aini St., Cairo, 11562, Egypt
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26
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Furtado AA, Daniele-Silva A, Silva-Júnior AAD, Fernandes-Pedrosa MDF. Biology, venom composition, and scorpionism induced by brazilian scorpion Tityus stigmurus (Thorell, 1876) (Scorpiones: Buthidae): A mini-review. Toxicon 2020; 185:36-45. [PMID: 32585220 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Scorpionism is a serious public health problem in various regions of the world. In Brazil, a high number of accidents by scorpions have been reported. From 2014 to 2018, about 547,000 cases were recorded, resulting in 466 deaths. The scorpion Tityus stigmurus is the predominant species in the northeast of Brazil, being responsible for most scorpionism cases in this region. With the aid of the transcriptomic approach of the venom gland of this species, components as neurotoxins, antimicrobials, metal chelating peptides and hypotensins, have been identified and characterized in silico, showing different biologic activity in vitro. In addition, the neuronal, pancreatic, renal, and enzymatic effects have been demonstrated for the crude T. stigmurus venom. Therefore, the T. stigmurus scorpion venom constitutes a rich arsenal of bioactive molecules with high potential for therapeutic and biotechnological application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allanny Alves Furtado
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
| | - Alessandra Daniele-Silva
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
| | - Arnóbio Antônio da Silva-Júnior
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
| | - Matheus de Freitas Fernandes-Pedrosa
- Laboratory of Technology and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (Tecbiofar), Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Rua General Gustavo Cordeiro de Farias, S/N, Petrópolis, Natal, 59012-570, Brazil.
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do Nascimento Dias J, de Souza Silva C, de Araújo AR, Souza JMT, de Holanda Veloso Júnior PH, Cabral WF, da Glória da Silva M, Eaton P, de Souza de Almeida Leite JR, Nicola AM, Albuquerque P, Silva-Pereira I. Mechanisms of action of antimicrobial peptides ToAP2 and NDBP-5.7 against Candida albicans planktonic and biofilm cells. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10327. [PMID: 32587287 PMCID: PMC7316759 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67041-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida albicans is a major cause of human infections, ranging from relatively simple to treat skin and mucosal diseases to systemic life-threatening invasive candidiasis. Fungal infections treatment faces three major challenges: the limited number of therapeutic options, the toxicity of the available drugs, and the rise of antifungal resistance. In this study, we demonstrate the antifungal activity and mechanism of action of peptides ToAP2 and NDBP-5.7 against planktonic cells and biofilms of C. albicans. Both peptides were active against C. albicans cells; however, ToAP2 was more active and produced more pronounced effects on fungal cells. Both peptides affected C. albicans membrane permeability and produced changes in fungal cell morphology, such as deformations in the cell wall and disruption of ultracellular organization. Both peptides showed synergism with amphotericin B, while ToAP2 also presents a synergic effect with fluconazole. Besides, ToAP2 (6.25 µM.) was able to inhibit filamentation after 24 h of treatment and was active against both the early phase and mature biofilms of C. albicans. Finally, ToAP2 was protective in a Galleria mellonella model of infection. Altogether these results point to the therapeutic potential of ToAP2 and other antimicrobial peptides in the development of new therapies for C. albicans infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jhones do Nascimento Dias
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Calliandra de Souza Silva
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Alyne Rodrigues de Araújo
- Biotechnology and Biodiversity Center Research, Biotec, Federal University of the Delta of Parnaíba, Parnaíba, Piauí, Brazil
| | - Jessica Maria Teles Souza
- Biotechnology and Biodiversity Center Research, Biotec, Federal University of the Delta of Parnaíba, Parnaíba, Piauí, Brazil
| | | | - Wanessa Felix Cabral
- Center for Research in Applied Morphology and Immunology, NuPMIA, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Maria da Glória da Silva
- Center for Research in Applied Morphology and Immunology, NuPMIA, Faculty of Medicine, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Peter Eaton
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | | | | | - Ildinete Silva-Pereira
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.
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Ahmadi S, Knerr JM, Argemi L, Bordon KCF, Pucca MB, Cerni FA, Arantes EC, Çalışkan F, Laustsen AH. Scorpion Venom: Detriments and Benefits. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8050118. [PMID: 32408604 PMCID: PMC7277529 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8050118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpion venom may cause severe medical complications and untimely death if injected into the human body. Neurotoxins are the main components of scorpion venom that are known to be responsible for the pathological manifestations of envenoming. Besides neurotoxins, a wide range of other bioactive molecules can be found in scorpion venoms. Advances in separation, characterization, and biotechnological approaches have enabled not only the development of more effective treatments against scorpion envenomings, but have also led to the discovery of several scorpion venom peptides with interesting therapeutic properties. Thus, scorpion venom may not only be a medical threat to human health, but could prove to be a valuable source of bioactive molecules that may serve as leads for the development of new therapies against current and emerging diseases. This review presents both the detrimental and beneficial properties of scorpion venom toxins and discusses the newest advances within the development of novel therapies against scorpion envenoming and the therapeutic perspectives for scorpion toxins in drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Ahmadi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (J.M.K.); (L.A.); (M.B.P.); (F.A.C.)
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosafety, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Eşkisehir Osmangazi University, TR-26040 Eşkisehir, Turkey;
- Correspondence: (S.A.); (A.H.L.); Tel.: +45-7164-6042 (S.A.); +45-2988-1134 (A.H.L.)
| | - Julius M. Knerr
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (J.M.K.); (L.A.); (M.B.P.); (F.A.C.)
| | - Lídia Argemi
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (J.M.K.); (L.A.); (M.B.P.); (F.A.C.)
| | - Karla C. F. Bordon
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto—São Paulo 14040-903, Brazil; (K.C.F.B.); (E.C.A.)
| | - Manuela B. Pucca
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (J.M.K.); (L.A.); (M.B.P.); (F.A.C.)
- Medical School, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, Roraima 69310-000, Brazil
| | - Felipe A. Cerni
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (J.M.K.); (L.A.); (M.B.P.); (F.A.C.)
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto—São Paulo 14040-903, Brazil; (K.C.F.B.); (E.C.A.)
| | - Eliane C. Arantes
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto—São Paulo 14040-903, Brazil; (K.C.F.B.); (E.C.A.)
| | - Figen Çalışkan
- Department of Biotechnology and Biosafety, Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Eşkisehir Osmangazi University, TR-26040 Eşkisehir, Turkey;
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Letters, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, TR-26040 Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Andreas H. Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, DK-2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark; (J.M.K.); (L.A.); (M.B.P.); (F.A.C.)
- Correspondence: (S.A.); (A.H.L.); Tel.: +45-7164-6042 (S.A.); +45-2988-1134 (A.H.L.)
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29
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Housley DM, Pinyon JL, von Jonquieres G, Perera CJ, Smout M, Liddell MJ, Jennings EA, Wilson D, Housley GD. Australian Scorpion Hormurus waigiensis Venom Fractions Show Broad Bioactivity Through Modulation of Bio-Impedance and Cytosolic Calcium. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E617. [PMID: 32316246 PMCID: PMC7226344 DOI: 10.3390/biom10040617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpion venoms are a rich source of bioactive molecules, but characterisation of toxin peptides affecting cytosolic Ca2+, central to cell signalling and cell death, is limited. We undertook a functional screening of the venom of the Australian scorpion Hormurus waigiensis to determine the breadth of Ca2+ mobilisation. A human embryonic kidney (HEK293) cell line stably expressing the genetically encoded Ca2+ reporter GCaMP5G and the rabbit type 1 ryanodine receptor (RyR1) was developed as a biosensor. Size-exclusion Fast Protein Liquid Chromatography separated the venom into 53 fractions, constituting 12 chromatographic peaks. Liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy identified 182 distinct molecules with 3 to 63 components per peak. The molecular weights varied from 258 Da-13.6 kDa, with 53% under 1 kDa. The majority of the venom chromatographic peaks (tested as six venom pools) were found to reversibly modulate cell monolayer bioimpedance, detected using the xCELLigence platform (ACEA Biosciences). Confocal Ca2+ imaging showed 9/14 peak samples, with molecules spanning the molecular size range, increased cytosolic Ca2+ mobilization. H. waigiensis venom Ca2+ activity was correlated with changes in bio-impedance, reflecting multi-modal toxin actions on cell physiology across the venom proteome.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M. Housley
- Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (D.M.H.); (J.L.P.); (G.v.J.); (C.J.P.)
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Sunshine Coast, QLD 4575, Australia
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, Cairns Campus, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia;
| | - Jeremy L. Pinyon
- Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (D.M.H.); (J.L.P.); (G.v.J.); (C.J.P.)
| | - Georg von Jonquieres
- Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (D.M.H.); (J.L.P.); (G.v.J.); (C.J.P.)
| | - Chamini J. Perera
- Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (D.M.H.); (J.L.P.); (G.v.J.); (C.J.P.)
| | - Michael Smout
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia; (M.S.); (D.W.)
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Michael J. Liddell
- Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Science, College of Science & Engineering, Cairns Campus, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia;
| | - Ernest A. Jennings
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, Cairns Campus, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia;
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia; (M.S.); (D.W.)
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - David Wilson
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia; (M.S.); (D.W.)
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Gary D. Housley
- Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (D.M.H.); (J.L.P.); (G.v.J.); (C.J.P.)
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Cesa-Luna C, Muñoz-Rojas J, Saab-Rincon G, Baez A, Morales-García YE, Juárez-González VR, Quintero-Hernández V. Structural characterization of scorpion peptides and their bactericidal activity against clinical isolates of multidrug-resistant bacteria. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0222438. [PMID: 31710627 PMCID: PMC6844485 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpion venom peptides represent a novel source of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with broad-spectrum activity. In this study, we determined the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of three scorpion AMPs, Uy234, Uy17, and Uy192, which are found in the venomous glands of the Urodacus yaschenkoi scorpion, against the clinical isolates of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria. In addition, we tested the activity of a consensus AMP designed in our laboratory based on some previously reported IsCT-type (cytotoxic linear peptide) AMPs with the aim of obtaining higher antimicrobial activity. All peptides tested showed high antimicrobial activity against MDR clinical isolates, with the highest activity against β-hemolytic Streptococcus strains. The hemolytic activity was determined against human red blood cells and was significantly lower than that of previously reported AMPs. The α-helical structure of the four AMPs was confirmed by circular dichroism (CD). These results suggest that the four peptides can be valuable tools for the design and development of AMPs for use in the inhibition of MDR pathogenic bacteria. A clear index of synergism and additivity was found for the combination of QnCs-BUAP + Uy234, which makes these peptides the most promising candidates against pathogenic bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Cesa-Luna
- Ecology and Survival of Microorganisms Group (ESMG), Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular Microbiana (LEMM), Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Microbiológicas (CICM), Instituto de Ciencias (IC), Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, Puebla, México
| | - Jesús Muñoz-Rojas
- Ecology and Survival of Microorganisms Group (ESMG), Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular Microbiana (LEMM), Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Microbiológicas (CICM), Instituto de Ciencias (IC), Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, Puebla, México
| | - Gloria Saab-Rincon
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Antonino Baez
- Ecology and Survival of Microorganisms Group (ESMG), Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular Microbiana (LEMM), Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Microbiológicas (CICM), Instituto de Ciencias (IC), Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, Puebla, México
| | - Yolanda Elizabeth Morales-García
- Ecology and Survival of Microorganisms Group (ESMG), Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular Microbiana (LEMM), Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Microbiológicas (CICM), Instituto de Ciencias (IC), Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, Puebla, México
- Licenciatura en Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, BUAP, Puebla, Puebla, México
| | - Víctor Rivelino Juárez-González
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mor., México
| | - Verónica Quintero-Hernández
- Ecology and Survival of Microorganisms Group (ESMG), Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular Microbiana (LEMM), Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Microbiológicas (CICM), Instituto de Ciencias (IC), Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla (BUAP), Puebla, Puebla, México
- CONACYT-ESMG, LEMM, CICM, IC, BUAP, Puebla, Puebla, México
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Acevedo ICC, Silva Jr PI, Silva FD, Araújo I, Alves FL, Oliveira CS, Oliveira Jr VX. IsCT‐based analogs intending better biological activity. J Pept Sci 2019; 25:e3219. [DOI: 10.1002/psc.3219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fernanda Dias Silva
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e HumanasUniversidade Federal do ABC Santo André SP Brazil
| | - Iris Araújo
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e HumanasUniversidade Federal do ABC Santo André SP Brazil
| | - Flávio Lopes Alves
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e HumanasUniversidade Federal do ABC Santo André SP Brazil
- Departamento de BiofísicaUniversidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo SP Brazil
| | | | - Vani Xavier Oliveira Jr
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e HumanasUniversidade Federal do ABC Santo André SP Brazil
- Departamento de BiofísicaUniversidade Federal de São Paulo São Paulo SP Brazil
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Juichi H, Miyashita M, Nakagawa Y, Miyagawa H. Isolation and characterization of the insecticidal, two-domain toxin LaIT3 from the Liocheles australasiae scorpion venom. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2019; 83:2183-2189. [PMID: 31448688 DOI: 10.1080/09168451.2019.1654849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
A novel insecticidal peptide (LaIT3) was isolated from the Liocheles australasiae venom. The primary structure of LaIT3 was determined by a combination of Edman degradation and MS/MS de novo sequencing analysis. Discrimination between Leu and Ile in MS/MS analysis was achieved based on the difference in side chain fragmentation assisted by chemical derivatization. LaIT3 was determined to be an 84-residue peptide with three intrachain disulfide bonds. The sequence similarity search revealed that LaIT3 belongs to the scorpine-like peptides consisting of two structural domains: an N-terminal α-helical domain and a C-terminal cystine-stabilized domain. As observed for most of the scorpine-like peptides, LaIT3 showed significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, which is likely to be caused by its membrane-disrupting property.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hironori Juichi
- Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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Aslanli A, Lyagin I, Efremenko E. Charges' interaction in polyelectrolyte (nano)complexing of His 6-OPH with peptides: Unpredictable results due to imperfect or useless concept? Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 140:368-376. [PMID: 31425763 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.08.137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Quorum Quenching (QQ) enzymes can be used to prevent bacterial antibiotic resistance by degradation of Quorum Sensing (QS) signaling molecules, for example N-acyl homoserine lactones (AHLs). This paper is aimed at the in silico investigation of the possible combinations of hexahistidine-tagged organophosphorus hydrolase (His6-OPH) with antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to improve the enzyme activity and, promisingly, stability. This shall help creating a nanosized QQ preparation capable to hydrolyze different AHLs and possessing an antimicrobial activity. To achieve this, binding of AMPs and His6-OPH was simulated by molecular docking, and various interaction parameters (affinity, charge, contact area, etc.) of the generated models were studied. Both anionic and cationic polypeptides were shown to bind to His6-OPH with negligible effect of their charge, that significantly deviates from the charge-to-charge interaction concept. The (nano)complexes of His6-OPH with Indolicidin and Temporin A appear to have the most balanced characteristics which were issued experimentally also.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysel Aslanli
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Chemistry, 1 Lenin Hills, building 3, Moscow, Russia, 119991
| | - Ilya Lyagin
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Chemistry, 1 Lenin Hills, building 3, Moscow, Russia, 119991
| | - Elena Efremenko
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Chemistry, 1 Lenin Hills, building 3, Moscow, Russia, 119991.
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Veloso Júnior PHDH, Simon KS, de Castro RJA, Coelho LC, Erazo FAH, de Souza ACB, das Neves RC, Lozano VF, Schwartz EF, Tavares AH, Mortari MR, Junqueira-Kipnis AP, Silva-Pereira I, Bocca AL. Peptides ToAP3 and ToAP4 decrease release of inflammatory cytokines through TLR-4 blocking. Biomed Pharmacother 2019; 118:109152. [PMID: 31376652 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small molecules with microbicidal and immunoregulatory activities. In this study we evaluated the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities of peptides ToAP3 and ToAP4, AMPs from the venom of the Brazilian scorpion Tityus obscurus. To test the peptides' activity, murine bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) or dendritic cells (BMDCs) were stimulated with peptides plus LPS to analyze their ability to modulate cytokine release as well as phenotypic markers. For antimicrobial analysis, we evaluated the indirect activity against macrophage-internalized Cryptococcus neoformans and direct activity against Mycobacterium massiliense. Our data demonstrate that they were able to reduce TNF-α and IL-1β transcript levels and protein levels for BMDM and BMDC. Furthermore, the reduction of TNF-α secretion, before LPS- inflammatory stimuli, is associated with peptide interaction with TLR-4. ToAP4 increased MHC-II expression in BMDC, while ToAP3 decreased co-stimulatory molecules such as CD80 and CD86. Although these peptides were able to modulate the production of cytokines and molecules associated with antigen presentation, they did not increase the ability of clearance of C. neoformans by macrophages. In antimicrobial analysis, only ToAP3 showed potent action against bacteria. Altogether, these results demonstrate a promising target for the development of new immunomodulatory and anti-bacterial therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karina Smidt Simon
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | - Luísa Coutinho Coelho
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | - Rogério Coutinho das Neves
- Department of Biosciences and Technologies, Institute of Tropical Diseases and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Viviane Furlan Lozano
- Public Health Central Laboratory, Secretary of Health of Distrito Federal, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth Ferroni Schwartz
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Aldo Henrique Tavares
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Márcia Renata Mortari
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Junqueira-Kipnis
- Department of Biosciences and Technologies, Institute of Tropical Diseases and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Ildinete Silva-Pereira
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Anamelia Lorenzetti Bocca
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.
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Shi W, He P, Zeng XC, Wu W, Chen X. Inhibitory Effect of an Acidic Peptide on the Activity of an Antimicrobial Peptide from the Scorpion Mesobuthus martensii Karsch. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23123314. [PMID: 30558111 PMCID: PMC6321396 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23123314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2018] [Revised: 11/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Highly acidic peptides with no disulfide bridges are widely present in the scorpion venoms; however, none of them has been functionally characterized so far. Here, we cloned the full-length cDNA of a short-chain highly acidic peptide (referred to as HAP-1) from a cDNA library made from the venom glands of the Chinese scorpion Mesobuthus martensii Karsch. HAP-1 contains 19 amino acid residues with a predicted IP value of 4.25. Acidic amino residues account for 33.3% of the total residues in the molecule of HAP-1. HAP-1 shows 76⁻98% identities to some scorpion venom peptides that have not yet been functionally characterized. Secondary structure prediction showed that HAP-1 contains a beta-sheet region (residues 9⁻17), and two coiled coil regions (residues 1⁻8 and 18⁻19) located at the N-terminal and C-terminal regions of the peptide, respectively. Antimicrobial assay showed that HAP-1 does not have any effect on the growth of the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus AB94004. However, it potently inhibits the antimicrobial activity of a 13-mer peptide from M. martensii Karsch against Staphylococcus aureus AB94004. This finding is the first characterization of the function of such highly acidic peptides from scorpions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanxia Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan 430074, China.
| | - Pengchen He
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan 430074, China.
| | - Xian-Chun Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan 430074, China.
| | - Weiwei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan 430074, China.
| | - Xiaoming Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology & School of Environmental Studies, China University of Geosciences (Wuhan), Wuhan 430074, China.
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Arthropod venoms: Biochemistry, ecology and evolution. Toxicon 2018; 158:84-103. [PMID: 30529476 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.11.433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Comprising of over a million described species of highly diverse invertebrates, Arthropoda is amongst the most successful animal lineages to have colonized aerial, terrestrial, and aquatic domains. Venom, one of the many fascinating traits to have evolved in various members of this phylum, has underpinned their adaptation to diverse habitats. Over millions of years of evolution, arthropods have evolved ingenious ways of delivering venom in their targets for self-defence and predation. The morphological diversity of venom delivery apparatus in arthropods is astounding, and includes extensively modified pedipalps, tail (telson), mouth parts (hypostome), fangs, appendages (maxillulae), proboscis, ovipositor (stinger), and hair (urticating bristles). Recent investigations have also unravelled an astonishing venom biocomplexity with molecular scaffolds being recruited from a multitude of protein families. Venoms are a remarkable bioresource for discovering lead compounds in targeted therapeutics. Several components with prospective applications in the development of advanced lifesaving drugs and environment friendly bio-insecticides have been discovered from arthropod venoms. Despite these fascinating features, the composition, bioactivity, and molecular evolution of venom in several arthropod lineages remains largely understudied. This review highlights the prevalence of venom, its mode of toxic action, and the evolutionary dynamics of venom in Arthropoda, the most speciose phylum in the animal kingdom.
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RK, the first scorpion peptide with dual disintegrin activity on α1β1 and αvβ3 integrins. Int J Biol Macromol 2018; 120:1777-1788. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2018.09.180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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38
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The diversity of venom components of the scorpion species Paravaejovis schwenkmeyeri (Scorpiones: Vaejovidae) revealed by transcriptome and proteome analyses. Toxicon 2018; 151:47-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.06.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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39
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Ward MJ, Ellsworth SA, Nystrom GS. A global accounting of medically significant scorpions: Epidemiology, major toxins, and comparative resources in harmless counterparts. Toxicon 2018; 151:137-155. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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40
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Mosaheb MUWFZ, Khan NA, Siddiqui R. Cockroaches, locusts, and envenomating arthropods: a promising source of antimicrobials. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2018; 21:873-877. [PMID: 30524685 PMCID: PMC6272074 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2018.30442.7339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To present a brief overview of various natural sources of antimicrobials with the aim of highlighting invertebrates living in polluted environments as additional sources of antimicrobials. MATERIALS AND METHODS A PubMed search using antibacterials, antimicrobials, invertebrates, and natural products as keywords was carried out. In addition, we consulted conference proceedings, original unpublished research undertaken in our laboratories, and discussions in specific forums. RESULTS Representative of a stupefying 95% of the fauna, invertebrates are fascinating organisms which have evolved strategies to survive germ-infested environments, yet they have largely been ignored. Since invertebrates such as cockroaches inhabit hazardous environments which are rampant with pathogens, they must have developed defense mechanisms to circumvent infections. This is corroborated by the presence of antimicrobial molecules in the nervous systems and hemolymph of cockroaches. Antimicrobial compounds have also been unraveled from the nervous, adipose, and salivary glandular tissues of locusts. Interestingly, the venoms of arthropods including ants, scorpions, and spiders harbor toxins, but also possess multiple antimicrobials. CONCLUSION These findings have rekindled the hopes for newer and enhanced therapeutic agents derived from a plentiful and diverse resource to combat fatal infectious diseases. Such antimicrobials from unusual sources can potentially be translated into clinical practice, however intensive research is needed over the next several years to realize these expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Selangor, Malaysia
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41
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Nanobodies as novel therapeutic agents in envenomation. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2018; 1862:2955-2965. [PMID: 30309831 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2018.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An effective therapy against envenoming should be a priority in view of the high number scorpion stings and snakebites. Serum therapy is still widely applied to treat the envenomation victims; however this approach suffers from several shortcomings. The employment of monoclonal antibodies might be an outcome as these molecules are at the core of a variety of applications from protein structure determination to cancer treatment. The progress of activities in the twilight zone between genetic and antibody engineering have led to the development of a unique class of antibody fragments. These molecules possess several benefits and lack many possible disadvantages over classical antibodies. Within recombinant antibody formats, nanobodies or single domain antigen binding fragments derived from heavy chain only antibodies in camelids occupy a privileged position. SCOPE OF REVIEW In this paper we will briefly review the common methods of envenomation treatment and focus on details of various in vivo research activities that investigate the performance of recombinant, monoclonal nanobodies in venom neutralization. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Nanobodies bind to their cognate target with high specificity and affinity, they can be produced in large quantities from microbial expression systems and are very robust even when challenged with harsh environmental conditions. Upon administering, they rapidly distribute throughout the body and seem to be well tolerated in humans posing low immunogenicity. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Scorpion and snake envenomation is a major issue in developing countries and nanobodies as a venom-neutralizing agent can be considered as a valuable and promising candidate in envenomation therapy.
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Ghosh A, Roy R, Nandi M, Mukhopadhyay A. Scorpion Venom-Toxins that Aid in Drug Development: A Review. Int J Pept Res Ther 2018; 25:27-37. [PMID: 32214927 PMCID: PMC7088386 DOI: 10.1007/s10989-018-9721-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Scorpion venom components have multifaceted orientation against bacterial, viral, fungal infections and other neuronal disorders. They can modulate the ion channels (K+, Na+, Cl−, Ca2+) of our body and this concept has been hypothesized in formulating pharmaceuticals. The triumphant achievement of these venom components as formulated anticancer agent in Phase I and Phase II clinical trials allure researchers to excavate beneficial venom components prohibiting DNA replication in malignant tumor cells. This review brings forth the achievements of Science and Technology in classifying the venom components as therapeutics and further application in drug product development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arijit Ghosh
- 1Department of Molecular Biology, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Cancer Research Institute, 16 A Park Lane, Kolkata, 700016 India
| | - Rini Roy
- 1Department of Molecular Biology, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Cancer Research Institute, 16 A Park Lane, Kolkata, 700016 India
| | - Monoswini Nandi
- 2Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Kalyani University, University Road, Near Kalyani Ghoshpara Railway Station, District Nadia, Kalyani, West Bengal 741235 India
| | - Ashis Mukhopadhyay
- 3Department of Hemato-Oncology, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Cancer Research Institute, 16 A Park Lane, Kolkata, 700016 India.,4Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Cancer Research Institute, Park Street, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016 India
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Intraspecific venom variation in southern African scorpion species of the genera Parabuthus, Uroplectes and Opistophthalmus (Scorpiones: Buthidae, Scorpionidae). Toxicon 2018; 144:83-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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44
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Deng Y, Gu J, Yan Z, Wang M, Ma C, Zhang J, Jiang G, Ge M, Xu S, Xu Z, Xiao L. De novo transcriptomic analysis of the venomous glands from the scorpion Heterometrus spinifer revealed unique and extremely high diversity of the venom peptides. Toxicon 2018; 143:1-19. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.12.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 12/25/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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45
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Gao B, Zhu S. Mesobuthus Venom-Derived Antimicrobial Peptides Possess Intrinsic Multifunctionality and Differential Potential as Drugs. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:320. [PMID: 29599756 PMCID: PMC5863496 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.00320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal venoms are a mixture of peptides and proteins that serve two basic biological functions: predation and defense against both predators and microbes. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a common component extensively present in various scorpion venoms (herein abbreviated as svAMPs). However, their roles in predation and defense against predators and potential as drugs are poorly understood. Here, we report five new venom peptides with antimicrobial activity from two Mesobuthus scorpion species. These α-helical linear peptides displayed highly bactericidal activity toward all the Gram-positive bacteria used here but differential activity against Gram-negative bacteria and fungi. In addition to the antibiotic activity, these AMPs displayed lethality to houseflies and hemotoxin-like toxicity on mice by causing hemolysis, tissue damage and inducing inflammatory pain. Unlike AMPs from other origins, these venom-derived AMPs seem to be unsuitable as anti-infective drugs due to their high hemolysis and low serum stability. However, MeuTXKβ1, a known two-domain Mesobuthus AMP, is an exception since it exhibits high activity toward antibiotic resistant Staphylococci clinical isolates with low hemolysis and high serum stability. The findings that the classical AMPs play predatory and defensive roles indicate that the multifunctionality of scorpion venom components is an intrinsic feature likely evolved by natural selection from microbes, prey and predators of scorpions. This definitely provides an excellent system in which one can study how a protein adaptively evolves novel functions in a new environment. Meantimes, new strategies are needed to remove the toxicity of svAMPs on eukaryotic cells when they are used as leads for anti-infective drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Gao
- Group of Peptide Biology and Evolution, State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shunyi Zhu
- Group of Peptide Biology and Evolution, State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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46
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Ward MJ, Ellsworth SA, Rokyta DR. Venom-gland transcriptomics and venom proteomics of the Hentz striped scorpion (Centruroides hentzi; Buthidae) reveal high toxin diversity in a harmless member of a lethal family. Toxicon 2018; 142:14-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.12.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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47
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Profiling the short, linear, non-disulfide bond-containing peptidome from the venom of the scorpion Tityus obscurus. J Proteomics 2018; 170:70-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2017.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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McElroy T, McReynolds CN, Gulledge A, Knight KR, Smith WE, Albrecht EA. Differential toxicity and venom gland gene expression in Centruroides vittatus. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0184695. [PMID: 28976980 PMCID: PMC5627916 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0184695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Variation in venom toxicity and composition exists in many species. In this study, venom potency and venom gland gene expression was evaluated in Centruroides vittatus, size class I-II (immature) and size class IV (adults/penultimate instars) size classes. Venom toxicity was evaluated by probit analysis and returned ED50 values of 50.1 μg/g for class IV compared to 134.2 μg/g for class I-II 24 hours post injection, suggesting size class IV was 2.7 fold more potent. Next generation sequencing (NGS and qPCR were used to characterize venom gland gene expression. NGS data was assembled into 36,795 contigs, and annotated using BLASTx with UNIPROT. EdgeR analysis of the sequences showed statistically significant differential expression in transcripts associated with sodium and potassium channel modulation. Sodium channel modulator expression generally favored size class IV; in contrast, potassium channel modulators were favored in size class I-II expression. Real-time quantitative PCR of 14 venom toxin transcripts detected relative expression ratios that paralleled NGS data and identified potential family members or splice variants for several sodium channel modulators. Our data suggests ontogenetic differences in venom potency and venom related genes expression exist between size classes I-II and IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas McElroy
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, United States of America
| | - C. Neal McReynolds
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Texas A&M International University, Laredo, TX, United States of America
| | - Alyssa Gulledge
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Organismal Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, United States of America
| | - Kelci R. Knight
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, United States of America
| | - Whitney E. Smith
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, United States of America
| | - Eric A. Albrecht
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Luna-Ramirez K, Skaljac M, Grotmann J, Kirfel P, Vilcinskas A. Orally Delivered Scorpion Antimicrobial Peptides Exhibit Activity against Pea Aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum) and Its Bacterial Symbionts. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:toxins9090261. [PMID: 28837113 PMCID: PMC5618194 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9090261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aphids are severe agricultural pests that damage crops by feeding on phloem sap and vectoring plant pathogens. Chemical insecticides provide an important aphid control strategy, but alternative and sustainable control measures are required to avoid rapidly emerging resistance, environmental contamination, and the risk to humans and beneficial organisms. Aphids are dependent on bacterial symbionts, which enable them to survive on phloem sap lacking essential nutrients, as well as conferring environmental stress tolerance and resistance to parasites. The evolution of aphids has been accompanied by the loss of many immunity-related genes, such as those encoding antibacterial peptides, which are prevalent in other insects, probably because any harm to the bacterial symbionts would inevitably affect the aphids themselves. This suggests that antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) could replace or at least complement conventional insecticides for aphid control. We fed the pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum) with AMPs from the venom glands of scorpions. The AMPs reduced aphid survival, delayed their reproduction, displayed in vitro activity against aphid bacterial symbionts, and reduced the number of symbionts in vivo. Remarkably, we found that some of the scorpion AMPs compromised the aphid bacteriome, a specialized organ that harbours bacterial symbionts. Our data suggest that scorpion AMPs holds the potential to be developed as bio-insecticides, and are promising candidates for the engineering of aphid-resistant crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Luna-Ramirez
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME), Bioresources Project Group, Winchesterstrasse 2, 35394 Giessen, Germany.
| | - Marisa Skaljac
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME), Bioresources Project Group, Winchesterstrasse 2, 35394 Giessen, Germany.
| | - Jens Grotmann
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME), Bioresources Project Group, Winchesterstrasse 2, 35394 Giessen, Germany.
| | - Phillipp Kirfel
- Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME), Bioresources Project Group, Winchesterstrasse 2, 35394 Giessen, Germany.
| | - Andreas Vilcinskas
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, Heinrich-Buff-Ring 26-32, 35392 Giessen, Germany.
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Melo MMA, Daniele-Silva A, Teixeira DG, Estrela AB, Melo KRT, Oliveira VS, Rocha HAO, Ferreira LDS, Pontes DL, Lima JPMS, Silva-Júnior AA, Barbosa EG, Carvalho E, Fernandes-Pedrosa MF. Structure and in vitro activities of a Copper II-chelating anionic peptide from the venom of the scorpion Tityus stigmurus. Peptides 2017; 94:91-98. [PMID: 28552408 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2017.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2016] [Revised: 05/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Anionic Peptides are molecules rich in aspartic acid (Asp) and/or glutamic acid (Glu) residues in the primary structure. This work presents, for the first time, structural characterization and biological activity assays of an anionic peptide from the venom of the scorpion Tityus stigmurus, named TanP. The three-dimensional structure of TanP was obtained by computational modeling and refined by molecular dynamic (MD) simulations. Furthermore, we have performed circular dichroism (CD) analysis to predict TanP secondary structure, and UV-vis spectroscopy to evaluate its chelating activity. CD indicated predominance of random coil conformation in aqueous medium, as well as changes in structure depending on pH and temperature. TanP has chelating activity on copper ions, which modified the peptide's secondary structure. These results were corroborated by MD data. The molar ratio of binding (TanP:copper) depends on the concentration of peptide: at lower TanP concentration, the molar ratio was 1:5 (TanP:Cu2+), whereas in concentrated TanP solution, the molar ratio was 1:3 (TanP:Cu2+). TanP was not cytotoxic to non-neoplastic or cancer cell lines, and showed an ability to inhibit the in vitro release of nitric oxide by LPS-stimulated macrophages. Altogether, the results suggest TanP is a promising peptide for therapeutic application as a chelating agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menilla M A Melo
- Laboratório de Tecnologia e Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, RN, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, UFRN, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Daniele-Silva
- Laboratório de Tecnologia e Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Diego G Teixeira
- Laboratório de Sistemas Metabólicos, Centro de Biociências, UFRN, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Andréia B Estrela
- Laboratório de Tecnologia e Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Karolline R T Melo
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Polímeros Naturais, UFRN, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | | | - Hugo A O Rocha
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia de Polímeros Naturais, UFRN, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | | | - Daniel L Pontes
- Laboratório de Química de Coordenação e Polímeros, UFRN, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - João P M S Lima
- Laboratório de Sistemas Metabólicos, Centro de Biociências, UFRN, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Arnóbio A Silva-Júnior
- Laboratório de Tecnologia e Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, RN, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, UFRN, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Euzebio G Barbosa
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, UFRN, Natal, RN, Brazil; Laboratório de Química Farmacêutica, UFRN, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Eneas Carvalho
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Matheus F Fernandes-Pedrosa
- Laboratório de Tecnologia e Biotecnologia Farmacêutica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, RN, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Farmacêuticas, UFRN, Natal, RN, Brazil.
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