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Blank S, Korošec P, Slusarenko BO, Ollert M, Hamilton RG. Venom Component Allergen IgE Measurement in the Diagnosis and Management of Insect Sting Allergy. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024:S2213-2198(24)00773-6. [PMID: 39097146 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Accurate identification of allergy-eliciting stinging insect(s) is essential to ensuring effective management of Hymenoptera venom-allergic individuals with venom-specific immunotherapy. Diagnostic testing using whole-venom extracts with skin tests and serologic-based analyses remains the first level of discrimination for honeybee versus vespid venom sensitization in patients with a positive clinical history. As a second-level evaluation, serologic testing using molecular venom allergens can further discriminate genuine sensitization (honeybee venom: Api m 1, 3, 4, and 10 vs yellow jacket venom/Polistes dominula venom Ves v 1/Pol d 1 and Ves v 5/Pol d 5) from interspecies cross-reactivity (hyaluronidases [Api m 2, Ves v 2, and Pol d 2] and dipeptidyl peptidases IV [Api m 5, Ves v 3, and Pol d 3]). Clinical laboratories use a number of singleplex, oligoplex, and multiplex immunoassays that employ both extracted whole-venom and molecular venom allergens (highlighted earlier) for confirmation of allergic venom sensitization. Established quantitative singleplex autoanalyzers have general governmental regulatory clearance worldwide for venom-allergic patient testing with maximally achievable analytical sensitivity (0.1 kUA/L) and confirmed reproducibility (interassay coefficient of variation <10%). Emerging oligoplex and multiplex (fixed-panel) assays conserve on serum and are more cost-effective, but they need regulatory clearance in some countries and are prone to higher rates of detecting asymptomatic sensitization. Ultimately, the patient's clinical history, combined with proof of sensitization, is the final arbiter in the diagnosis of Hymenoptera venom allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Blank
- Center of Allergy and Environment, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine and Health and Helmholtz Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Munich, Germany.
| | - Peter Korošec
- Laboratory for Clinical Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University Clinic of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Golnik, Golnik, Slovenia; Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Benjamin O Slusarenko
- Center of Allergy and Environment, Technical University of Munich, School of Medicine and Health and Helmholtz Munich, German Research Center for Environmental Health, Munich, Germany
| | - Markus Ollert
- Department of Infection and Immunity, Luxembourg Institute of Health, Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg; Department of Dermatology and Allergy Centre, Odense Research Center for Anaphylaxis, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Robert G Hamilton
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Asthma and Allergy Center, Baltimore, Md.
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2
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McMurray JC, Adams KE, Wanandy T, Le A, Heddle RJ. Stinging Ant Anaphylaxis: Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024:S2213-2198(24)00745-1. [PMID: 39038538 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2024.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2024] [Revised: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Stinging ants represent a wide range of over 200 different species across the world, of which Solenopsis, Myrmecia, Pogonomyrmex, and Brachyponera genera account for a substantial economic and healthcare burden. S. invicta (red imported fire ant [IFA]) and M. pilosula (jack jumper ant [JJA]) are 2 species of high clinical importance, known to cause anaphylaxis in humans, with numerous reported fatalities. Diagnostic testing should be performed in patients with a history of a systemic reaction with skin testing and/or in vitro specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) testing. In vitro testing is commercially available for IFA through whole-body extract specific IgE and JJA venom-specific IgE, but not widely available for other stinging ant species. Commercial venom component testing for IFA and JJA is currently not available. Patients with a clinical history and positive specific IgE testing should undergo treatment with specific immunotherapy, which is currently available for IFA and JJA. Buildup may be performed using conventional, semi-rush, rush, or ultra-rush schedules with similar risk profiles for IFA. Optimal duration for whole=body extract immunotherapy for IFA and specific JJA venom immunotherapy is not well studied, but generally recommended for at least 3 to 5 years. Sting challenges are used in research settings, primarily to assess treatment efficacy of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy C McMurray
- Allergy & Immunology Service, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Md.
| | - Karla E Adams
- Allergy & Immunology Service, Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Troy Wanandy
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Incorporating the Jack Jumper Allergy Program, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; National Allergy Centre of Excellence (NACE), Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Adriana Le
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Incorporating the Jack Jumper Allergy Program, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; National Allergy Centre of Excellence (NACE), Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Murdoch Children's Research Institute, The Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert J Heddle
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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3
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Alzeer RM, Al-Hadyan KS, Al-Harbi NM, Bin Judia SS, Almeer RS, Alsbeih GA. Cytotoxicity and Radiosensitizing Potentials of Pilosulin-3, a Recombinant Ant Venom, in Breast Cancer Cells. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:701. [PMID: 38133205 PMCID: PMC10747674 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15120701] [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: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Venom peptides are promising agents in the development of unconventional anticancer therapeutic agents. This study explored the potential of Pilosulin-3, a recombinant peptide from the venom of the Australian jack jumper ant "Myrmecia pilosula", as a cytotoxic and radiosensitizing agent in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer (BC) cell lines. Pilosulin-3's cytotoxicity was evaluated across a wide range of concentrations using a proliferation assay. Cell cycle progression and apoptosis were examined at the inhibitory concentration 25% (IC25) and IC50 of Pilosulin-3, both with and without a 4Gy X-ray irradiation dose. Radiosensitivity was assessed at IC25 using the clonogenic survival assay. The study revealed that Pilosulin-3 exerted a concentration-dependent cytotoxic effect, with IC25 and IC50 values of 0.01 and 0.5 µM, respectively. In silico screening indicated high selectivity of Pilosulin-3 peptide, which was predicted to be the most likely anticancer agent (PROB = 0.997) with low hemolytic activity (PROP = 0.176). Although Pilosulin-3 exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) G2/M cell cycle arrest in combination with radiation, there was no discernible effect on apoptosis induction or cell survival following irradiation. In conclusion, Pilosulin-3 proved to be cytotoxic to BC cells and induced a cytostatic effect (G2/M arrest) when combined with radiation. However, it did not enhance the efficacy of cell killing by irradiation. While it holds potential as a cytotoxic agent in breast cancer treatment, its application as a radiosensitizer does not find support in these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reema M. Alzeer
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11541, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled S. Al-Hadyan
- Biomedical Physics Department, Radiation Biology Section, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Najla M. Al-Harbi
- Biomedical Physics Department, Radiation Biology Section, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sara S. Bin Judia
- Biomedical Physics Department, Radiation Biology Section, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rafa S. Almeer
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11541, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghazi A. Alsbeih
- Biomedical Physics Department, Radiation Biology Section, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh 11211, Saudi Arabia
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4
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Wanandy T, Le TTA, Lau WY, Wiese MD, Heddle RJ, Brown SGA. The development of Jack Jumper ant venom immunotherapy: our 25 years' experience. Intern Med J 2023; 53:1716-1721. [PMID: 37743244 DOI: 10.1111/imj.16217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Jack Jumper ant venom allergy is a uniquely Australian medical issue. The stinging ant is a leading cause of insect venom allergy in south-eastern Australia. An effective venom immunotherapy-based treatment was successfully developed by the Tasmanian Jack Jumper Allergy Research group. This paper provides a synopsis of our 25 years' research journey in developing this evidence-based treatment modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Troy Wanandy
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Incorporating the Jack Jumper Allergy Program, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Thanh-Thao A Le
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Incorporating the Jack Jumper Allergy Program, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Wun Y Lau
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Incorporating the Jack Jumper Allergy Program, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Michael D Wiese
- Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Robert J Heddle
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Simon G A Brown
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Aeromedical and Medical Retrieval Division, Ambulance Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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5
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Hurka S, Lüddecke T, Paas A, Dersch L, Schulte L, Eichberg J, Hardes K, Brinkrolf K, Vilcinskas A. Bioactivity Profiling of In Silico Predicted Linear Toxins from the Ants Myrmica rubra and Myrmica ruginodis. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14120846. [PMID: 36548743 PMCID: PMC9784689 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14120846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The venoms of ants (Formicidae) are a promising source of novel bioactive molecules with potential for clinical and agricultural applications. However, despite the rich diversity of ant species, only a fraction of this vast resource has been thoroughly examined in bioprospecting programs. Previous studies focusing on the venom of Central European ants (subfamily Myrmicinae) identified a number of short linear decapeptides and nonapeptides resembling antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Here, we describe the in silico approach and bioactivity profiling of 10 novel AMP-like peptides from the fellow Central European myrmicine ants Myrmica rubra and Myrmica ruginodis. Using the sequences of known ant venom peptides as queries, we screened the venom gland transcriptomes of both species. We found transcripts of nine novel decapeptides and one novel nonapeptide. The corresponding peptides were synthesized for bioactivity profiling in a broad panel of assays consisting of tests for cytotoxicity as well as antiviral, insecticidal, and antimicrobial activity. U-MYRTX-Mrug5a showed moderately potent antimicrobial effects against several bacteria, including clinically relevant pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus epidermidis, but high concentrations showed negligible cytotoxicity. U-MYRTX-Mrug5a is, therefore, a probable lead for the development of novel peptide-based antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Hurka
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), 60325 Frankfurt, Germany
- Correspondence: (S.H.); (T.L.)
| | - Tim Lüddecke
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), 60325 Frankfurt, Germany
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, 35392 Giessen, Germany
- Correspondence: (S.H.); (T.L.)
| | - Anne Paas
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), 60325 Frankfurt, Germany
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Ludwig Dersch
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), 60325 Frankfurt, Germany
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Lennart Schulte
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), 60325 Frankfurt, Germany
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Johanna Eichberg
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, 35392 Giessen, Germany
- BMBF Junior Research Group in Infection Research “ASCRIBE”, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Kornelia Hardes
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), 60325 Frankfurt, Germany
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, 35392 Giessen, Germany
- BMBF Junior Research Group in Infection Research “ASCRIBE”, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Karina Brinkrolf
- Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Vilcinskas
- Institute for Insect Biotechnology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), 60325 Frankfurt, Germany
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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6
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Venomics of the Central European Myrmicine Ants Myrmica rubra and Myrmica ruginodis. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14050358. [PMID: 35622604 PMCID: PMC9147725 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14050358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal venoms are a rich source of novel biomolecules with potential applications in medicine and agriculture. Ants are one of the most species-rich lineages of venomous animals. However, only a fraction of their biodiversity has been studied so far. Here, we investigated the venom components of two myrmicine (subfamily Myrmicinae) ants: Myrmica rubra and Myrmica ruginodis. We applied a venomics workflow based on proteotranscriptomics and found that the venoms of both species are composed of several protein classes, including venom serine proteases, cysteine-rich secretory protein, antigen 5 and pathogenesis-related 1 (CAP) superfamily proteins, Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors and venom acid phosphatases. Several of these protein classes are known venom allergens, and for the first time we detected phospholipase A1 in the venom of M. ruginodis. We also identified two novel epidermal growth factor (EGF) family toxins in the M. ruginodis venom proteome and an array of additional EGF-like toxins in the venom gland transcriptomes of both species. These are similar to known toxins from the related myrmicine ant, Manica rubida, and the myrmecine (subfamily Myrmeciinae) Australian red bulldog ant Myrmecia gullosa, and are possibly deployed as weapons in defensive scenarios or to subdue prey. Our work suggests that M.rubra and M. ruginodis venoms contain many enzymes and other high-molecular-weight proteins that cause cell damage. Nevertheless, the presence of EGF-like toxins suggests that myrmicine ants have also recruited smaller peptide components into their venom arsenal. Although little is known about the bioactivity and function of EGF-like toxins, their presence in myrmicine and myrmecine ants suggests they play a key role in the venom systems of the superfamily Formicoidea. Our work adds to the emerging picture of ant venoms as a source of novel bioactive molecules and highlights the need to incorporate such taxa in future venom bioprospecting programs.
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Shedding Lights on Crude Venom from Solitary Foraging Predatory Ant Ectatomma opaciventre: Initial Toxinological Investigation. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14010037. [PMID: 35051015 PMCID: PMC8781531 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14010037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Some species of primitive predatory ants, despite living in a colony, exercise their hunting collection strategy individually; their venom is painful, paralyzing, digestive, and lethal for their prey, yet the toxins responsible for these effects are poorly known. Ectatomma opaciventre is a previously unrecorded solitary hunting ant from the Brazilian Cerrado. To overcome this hindrance, the present study performed the in vitro enzymatic, biochemical, and biological activities of E. opaciventre to better understand the properties of this venom. Its venom showed several proteins with masses ranging from 1-116 kDa, highlighting the complexity of this venom. Compounds with high enzymatic activity were described, elucidating different enzyme classes present in the venom, with the presence of the first L-amino acid oxidase in Hymenoptera venoms being reported. Its crude venom contributes to a state of blood incoagulability, acting on primary hemostasis, inhibiting collagen-induced platelet aggregation, and operating on the fibrinolysis of loose red clots. Furthermore, the E. opaciventre venom preferentially induced cytotoxic effects on lung cancer cell lines and three different species of Leishmania. These data shed a comprehensive portrait of enzymatic components, biochemical and biological effects in vitro, opening perspectives for bio-pharmacological application of E. opaciventre venom molecules.
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8
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dos Santos AT, Cruz GS, Baptista GR. Anti-inflammatory activities of arthropod peptides: a systematic review. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20200152. [PMID: 34795699 PMCID: PMC8564866 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2020-0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptides obtained from different animal species have gained importance recently due to research that aims to develop biopharmaceuticals with therapeutic potential. In this sense, arthropod venoms have drawn attention, not only because of their toxicity but mainly for the search for molecules with various bioactivities, including anti-inflammatory activity. The purpose of the present study is to gather data available in the literature on new peptides derived from arthropod species with anti-inflammatory potential. This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies on peptides from arthropods that display anti-inflammatory activity were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. The bibliographic research started in 2020 and searched papers without a limit on the publication date. The articles were analyzed using a search string containing the following terms: "Peptides" and "Anti-inflammatory", in combinations such as "Ant", "Bee", "Wasp", "Crab", "Shrimp", "Scorpion", "Spider", "Tick" and "Centipedes". Besides, a search was carried out in the databases with the terms: "Peptides", "Antitumor", or "Anticancer", and "Arthropods". Articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria totalized 171, and these served for data extraction. Additionally, the present review included anti-inflammatory peptides with anticancer properties. Peptides with confirmed anti-inflammatory activity were from insects (ants, bees, and wasps), crustaceans (shrimp and crabs), arachnids (scorpions, spiders, and ticks), and centipedes. These arthropod peptides act mainly by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines as analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Some showed significant antineoplastic activity, working in essential cellular pathways against malignant neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Teixeira dos Santos
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Dentistry and Nursing, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Silva Cruz
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Dentistry and Nursing, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Gandhi Rádis Baptista
- Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Dentistry and Nursing, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
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9
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Global View on Ant Venom Allergy: from Allergenic Components to Clinical Management. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2021; 62:123-144. [PMID: 34075569 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-021-08858-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hymenoptera venom allergy is characterised by systemic anaphylactic reactions that occur in response to stings from members of the Hymenoptera order. Stinging by social Hymenoptera such as ants, honeybees, and vespids is one of the 3 major causes of anaphylaxis; along with food and drug exposure, it accounts for up to 43% of anaphylaxis cases and 20% of anaphylaxis-related fatalities. Despite their recognition as being of considerable public health significance, stinging ant venoms are relatively unexplored in comparison to other animal venoms and may be overlooked as a cause of venom allergy. Indeed, the venoms of stinging ants may be the most common cause of anaphylaxis in ant endemic areas. A better understanding of the natural history of venom allergy caused by stinging ants, their venom components, and the management of ant venom allergy is therefore required. This article provides a global view on allergic reactions to the venoms of stinging ants and the contemporary approach to diagnose and manage ant venom allergy.
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Nixon SA, Dekan Z, Robinson SD, Guo S, Vetter I, Kotze AC, Alewood PF, King GF, Herzig V. It Takes Two: Dimerization Is Essential for the Broad-Spectrum Predatory and Defensive Activities of the Venom Peptide Mp1a from the Jack Jumper Ant Myrmecia pilosula. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8070185. [PMID: 32629771 PMCID: PMC7400207 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8070185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ant venoms have recently attracted increased attention due to their chemical complexity, novel molecular frameworks, and diverse biological activities. The heterodimeric peptide ∆-myrtoxin-Mp1a (Mp1a) from the venom of the Australian jack jumper ant, Myrmecia pilosula, exhibits antimicrobial, membrane-disrupting, and pain-inducing activities. In the present study, we examined the activity of Mp1a and a panel of synthetic analogues against the gastrointestinal parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus, the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, and for their ability to stimulate pain-sensing neurons. Mp1a was found to be both insecticidal and anthelmintic, and it robustly activated mammalian sensory neurons at concentrations similar to those reported to elicit antimicrobial and cytotoxic activity. The native antiparallel Mp1a heterodimer was more potent than heterodimers with alternative disulfide connectivity, as well as monomeric analogues. We conclude that the membrane-disrupting effects of Mp1a confer broad-spectrum biological activities that facilitate both predation and defense for the ant. Our structure-activity data also provide a foundation for the rational engineering of analogues with selectivity for particular cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha A. Nixon
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (S.A.N.); (Z.D.); (S.D.R.); (S.G.); (I.V.); (P.F.A.)
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Zoltan Dekan
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (S.A.N.); (Z.D.); (S.D.R.); (S.G.); (I.V.); (P.F.A.)
| | - Samuel D. Robinson
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (S.A.N.); (Z.D.); (S.D.R.); (S.G.); (I.V.); (P.F.A.)
| | - Shaodong Guo
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (S.A.N.); (Z.D.); (S.D.R.); (S.G.); (I.V.); (P.F.A.)
| | - Irina Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (S.A.N.); (Z.D.); (S.D.R.); (S.G.); (I.V.); (P.F.A.)
- School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | | | - Paul F. Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (S.A.N.); (Z.D.); (S.D.R.); (S.G.); (I.V.); (P.F.A.)
| | - Glenn F. King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (S.A.N.); (Z.D.); (S.D.R.); (S.G.); (I.V.); (P.F.A.)
- Correspondence: (G.F.K.); (V.H.); Tel.: +61-7-3346-2025 (G.F.K.); +61-7-5456-5382 (V.H.)
| | - Volker Herzig
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (S.A.N.); (Z.D.); (S.D.R.); (S.G.); (I.V.); (P.F.A.)
- School of Science & Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD 4556, Australia
- Correspondence: (G.F.K.); (V.H.); Tel.: +61-7-3346-2025 (G.F.K.); +61-7-5456-5382 (V.H.)
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11
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The Peptide Venom Composition of the Fierce Stinging Ant Tetraponera aethiops (Formicidae: Pseudomyrmecinae). Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11120732. [PMID: 31847368 PMCID: PMC6950161 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11120732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In the mutualisms involving certain pseudomyrmicine ants and different myrmecophytes (i.e., plants sheltering colonies of specialized “plant-ant” species in hollow structures), the ant venom contributes to the host plant biotic defenses by inducing the rapid paralysis of defoliating insects and causing intense pain to browsing mammals. Using integrated transcriptomic and proteomic approaches, we identified the venom peptidome of the plant-ant Tetraponera aethiops (Pseudomyrmecinae). The transcriptomic analysis of its venom glands revealed that 40% of the expressed contigs encoded only seven peptide precursors related to the ant venom peptides from the A-superfamily. Among the 12 peptide masses detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC–MS), nine mature peptide sequences were characterized and confirmed through proteomic analysis. These venom peptides, called pseudomyrmecitoxins (PSDTX), share amino acid sequence identities with myrmeciitoxins known for their dual offensive and defensive functions on both insects and mammals. Furthermore, we demonstrated through reduction/alkylation of the crude venom that four PSDTXs were homo- and heterodimeric. Thus, we provide the first insights into the defensive venom composition of the ant genus Tetraponera indicative of a streamlined peptidome.
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Korošec P, Jakob T, Harb H, Heddle R, Karabus S, de Lima Zollner R, Selb J, Thong BYH, Zaitoun F, Golden DB, Levin M. Worldwide perspectives on venom allergy. World Allergy Organ J 2019; 12:100067. [PMID: 31700565 PMCID: PMC6829763 DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2019.100067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Venom immunotherapy is the standard of care for people with severe reactions and has been proven to reduce risk of future anaphylactic events. There is a moral imperative to ensure production, supply and worldwide availability of locally relevant, registered, standardized commercial venom extracts for diagnosis and treatment. Insects causing severe immediate allergic reactions vary by region worldwide. The most common culprits include honeybees (Apis mellifera), social wasps including yellow jackets (Vespula and Dolichovespula), paper wasps (Polistes) and hornets (Vespa), stinging ants (Solenopsis, Myrmecia, Pachycondyla, and Pogonomyrmex), and bumblebees (Bombus). Insects with importance in specific areas of the world include the Australian tick (Ixodes holocyclus), the kissing bug (Triatoma spp), horseflies (Tabanus spp), and mosquitoes (Aedes, Culex, Anopheles). Reliable access to high quality venom immunotherapy to locally relevant allergens is not available throughout the world. Many current commercially available therapeutic vaccines have deficiencies, are not suitable for, or are unavailable in vast areas of the globe. New products are required to replace products that are unstandardized or inadequate, particularly whole-body extract products. New products are required for insects in which no current treatment options exist. Venom immunotherapy should be promoted throughout the world and the provision thereof be supported by health authorities, regulatory authorities and all sectors of the health care service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Korošec
- University Clinic of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases, Golnik, Slovenia
| | - Thilo Jakob
- Department of Dermatoloy and Allergy, University Medical Center Giessen UKGM, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Harfi Harb
- National Center of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Sarah Karabus
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ricardo de Lima Zollner
- Laboratory of Translational Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Brazil
| | - Julij Selb
- University Clinic of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases, Golnik, Slovenia
| | - Bernard Yu-Hor Thong
- Department of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | | | - David B.K. Golden
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael Levin
- Division of Paediatric Allergy, University of Cape Town, South Africa
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Wanandy T, Honda-Okubo Y, Davies NW, Rose HE, Heddle RJ, Brown SGA, Woodman RJ, Petrovsky N, Wiese MD. Pharmaceutical and preclinical evaluation of Advax adjuvant as a dose-sparing strategy for ant venom immunotherapy. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2019; 172:1-8. [PMID: 31009889 PMCID: PMC7127811 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2019.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A major challenge in broader clinical application of Jack Jumper ant venom immunotherapy (JJA VIT) is the scarcity of ant venom which needs to be manually harvested from wild ants. Adjuvants are commonly used for antigen sparing in other vaccines, and thereby could potentially have major benefits to extend JJA supplies if they were to similarly enhance JJA VIT immunogenicity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical and microbiological stability and murine immunogenicity of low-dose JJA VIT formulated with a novel polysaccharide adjuvant referred to as delta inulin or Advax™. Jack Jumper ant venom (JJAV) protein stability was assessed by UPLC-UV, SDS-PAGE, SDS-PAGE immunoblot, and ELISA inhibition. Diffraction light scattering was used to assess particle size distribution of Advax; pH and benzyl alcohol quantification by UPLC-UV were used to assess the physicochemical stability of JJAV diluent, and endotoxin content and preservative efficacy test was used to investigate the microbiological properties of the adjuvanted VIT formulation. To assess the effect of adjuvant on JJA venom immunogenicity, mice were immunised four times with JJAV alone or formulated with Advax adjuvant. JJA VIT formulated with Advax was found to be physicochemically and microbiologically stable for at least 2 days when stored at 4 and 25 °C with a trend for an increase in allergenic potency observed beyond 2 days of storage. Low-dose JJAV formulated with Advax adjuvant induced significantly higher JJAV-specific IgG than a 5-fold higher dose of JJAV alone, consistent with a powerful allergen-sparing effect. The pharmaceutical data provides important guidance on the formulation, storage and use of JJA VIT formulated with Advax adjuvant, with the murine immunogenicity studies providing a strong rationale for a planned clinical trial to test the ability of Advax adjuvant to achieve 4-fold JJAV dose sparing in JJA-allergic human patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Troy Wanandy
- Jack Jumper Allergy Program, Royal Hobart Hospital, GPO Box 1061L, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia; Division of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 26, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 68, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia; Department of Pharmacy, Royal Hobart Hospital, GPO Box 1061L, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia.
| | - Yoshikazu Honda-Okubo
- Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia; Vaxine Pty Ltd, Bedford Park, Adelaide, 5042, Australia
| | - Noel W Davies
- Central Science Laboratory, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 74, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia
| | - Hayley E Rose
- Jack Jumper Allergy Program, Royal Hobart Hospital, GPO Box 1061L, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia
| | - Robert J Heddle
- Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia; Division of Immunology, SA Pathology, Institute of Medical and Veterinary Science, Frome Road, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia; Clinical Immunology and Allergy Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia; University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000, Australia
| | - Simon G A Brown
- Jack Jumper Allergy Program, Royal Hobart Hospital, GPO Box 1061L, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 68, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia; Ambulance Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia; Department of Emergency Medicine, Royal Hobart Hospital, GPO Box 1061L, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia
| | | | - Nikolai Petrovsky
- Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia; Vaxine Pty Ltd, Bedford Park, Adelaide, 5042, Australia
| | - Michael D Wiese
- Jack Jumper Allergy Program, Royal Hobart Hospital, GPO Box 1061L, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001, Australia; School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, South Australia, 5001, Australia
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The Use of Molecular Allergy Diagnosis in Anaphylaxis: a Literature Review. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN ALLERGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40521-019-00204-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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