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Belardo C, Jebali J, Boccella S, Infantino R, Fusco A, Perrone M, Bonsale R, Manzo I, Iannotta M, Scuteri D, Ferraraccio F, Panarese I, Ferrara G, Guida F, Luongo L, Palazzo E, Srairi-Abid N, Marrakchi N, Maione S. Biphasic Hormetic-like Effect of Lebecetin, a C-type Lectin of Snake Venom, on Formalin-induced Inflammation in Mice. Curr Neuropharmacol 2024; 22:1391-1405. [PMID: 38073106 PMCID: PMC11092918 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x22999231207105743] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Integrins, important extracellular matrix (ECM) receptor proteins, are affected by inflammation and can participate in the maintenance of many painful conditions. Although they are ubiquitous and changeable across all cell types, the roles of these cell adhesion molecules in pathological pain have not been fully explored. OBJECTIVE We evaluated the effects of the subcutaneous injection of lebecetin, a C-type lectin isolated from Macrovipera lebetina snake venom, previously reported to inhibit α5β1 and αv integrin activity, on different components of inflammation induced by the formalin administration in the hind paw of mice. METHODS The formalin-induced nocifensive behavior, edema, and histopathological changes in the hind paw associated with cytokine, iNOS, and COX2 expression, nociceptive-specific neuron activity, and microglial activation analysis in the spinal cord were evaluated in mice receiving vehicle or lebecetin pretreatment. RESULTS Lebecetin inhibited the nocifensive responses in the formalin test, related edema, and cell infiltration in the injected paw in a biphasic, hormetic-like, and dose-dependent way. According to that hormetic trend, a reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-alpha and upregulation of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in the spinal cord were found with the lowest doses of lebecetin. Moreover, COX2 and iNOS expression in serum and spinal cord followed the same biphasic pattern of cytokines. Finally, nociceptive neurons sensitization and activated microglia were normalized in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord by lebecetin. CONCLUSION These findings implicate specific roles of integrins in inflammation and tonic pain, as well as in the related central nervous system sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Belardo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Jed Jebali
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1002, Tunisia
| | - Serena Boccella
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Rosmara Infantino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Antimo Fusco
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Michela Perrone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Roozbe Bonsale
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Iolanda Manzo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Monica Iannotta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Damiana Scuteri
- Pharmacotechnology Documentation and Transfer Unit, Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Franca Ferraraccio
- Pathology Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Iacopo Panarese
- Pathology Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Ferrara
- Pathology Unit, Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Guida
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Livio Luongo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Enza Palazzo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Najet Srairi-Abid
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1002, Tunisia
| | - Naziha Marrakchi
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1002, Tunisia
| | - Sabatino Maione
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Pharmacology Division, University of Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
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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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Reduced Toxicity of Centruroides vittatus (Say, 1821) May Result from Lowered Sodium β Toxin Gene Expression and Toxin Protein Production. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13110828. [PMID: 34822614 PMCID: PMC8619477 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13110828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Body tissue and venom glands from an eastern population of the scorpion Centruroides vittatus (Say, 1821) were homogenized and molecular constituents removed to characterize putative sodium β toxin gene diversity, RT-qPCR, transcriptomic, and proteomic variation. We cloned sodium β toxins from genomic DNA, conducted RT-qPCR experiments with seven sodium β toxin variants, performed venom gland tissue RNA-seq, and isolated venom proteins for mass spectrophotometry. We identified >70 putative novel sodium β toxin genes, 111 toxin gene transcripts, 24 different toxin proteins, and quantified sodium β toxin gene expression variation among individuals and between sexes. Our analyses contribute to the growing evidence that venom toxicity among scorpion taxa and their populations may be associated with toxin gene diversity, specific toxin transcripts variation, and subsequent protein production. Here, slight transcript variation among toxin gene variants may contribute to the major toxin protein variation in individual scorpion venom composition.
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Kalapothakis Y, Miranda K, Pereira AH, Witt ASA, Marani C, Martins AP, Leal HG, Campos-Júnior E, Pimenta AMC, Borges A, Chávez-Olórtegui C, Kalapothakis E. Novel components of Tityus serrulatus venom: A transcriptomic approach. Toxicon 2020; 189:91-104. [PMID: 33181162 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Several research groups have studied the components produced by the venom gland of the scorpion Tityus serrulatus, which has one of the most lethal venoms in the world. Various methodologies have been employed to clarify the complex mechanisms of action of these components, especially neurotoxins and enzymes. Transcriptomes and proteomes have provided important information for pharmacological, biochemical, and immunological research. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has allowed the description of new transcripts and completion of partial sequence descriptions for peptides, especially those with low expression levels. In the present work, after NGS sequencing, we searched for new putative venom components. We present a total of nine new transcripts with neurotoxic potential (Ts33-41) and describe the sequences of one hyaluronidase (TsHyal_4); three enzymes involved in amidation (peptidyl-glycine alpha-amidating monooxygenase A, peptidyl-alpha-hydroxyglycine alpha-amidating lyase, and peptidylglycine alpha-hydroxylating monooxygenase), which increases the lethal potential of neurotoxins; and also the enzyme Ts_Chitinase1, which may be involved in the venom's digestive action. In addition, we determined the level of transcription of five groups: toxins, metalloproteases, hyaluronidases, chitinases and amidation enzymes, including new components found in this study. Toxins are the predominant group with an expression level of 91.945%, followed by metalloproteases with only 7.790% and other groups representing 0.265%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Kalapothakis
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Kelton Miranda
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Adriana Heloísa Pereira
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Amanda S A Witt
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Camila Marani
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Martins
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Hortênsia Gomes Leal
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Edimar Campos-Júnior
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Adriano M C Pimenta
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Adolfo Borges
- Centro para el Desarrollo de la Investigación Científica (CEDIC), Manduvirá 635 c/15 de Agosto, Asunción, Paraguay
| | - Carlos Chávez-Olórtegui
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Evanguedes Kalapothakis
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 31270-901, 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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Gurrola GB, Guijarro JI, Delepierre M, Mendoza RLL, Cid-Uribe JI, Coronas FV, Possani LD. Cn29, a novel orphan peptide found in the venom of the scorpion Centruroides noxius: Structure and function. Toxicon 2019; 167:184-191. [PMID: 31226259 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2019.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A peptide (Cn29) from the venom of the scorpion Centruroides noxius (about 2% of the soluble venom) was purified and its primary and three-dimensional structures were determined. The peptide contains 27 amino acids with primary sequence: LCLSCRGGDYDCRVKGTCENGKCVCGS. The peptide is tightly packed by three disulfide linkages formed between C2-C23, C5-C18 and C12-C25. Since the native peptide was obtained in limited amounts, the full synthetic peptide was prepared using the standard F-moc-based solid phase synthesis method of Merrifield. The native and synthetic peptides were shown to be identical by sequencing, HPLC separation and mass spectrometry. The solution structure of the peptide solved from NMR data shows that it consists of a well-defined N-terminal region without regular secondary structure extending from Leu 1 to Asp 9, followed by a short helical fragment from Tyr10 to Val14 and two short β strands (Thr17-Glu19 and Lys22-Val24). The primary and tertiary structures of Cn29 are different from all other scorpion peptides described in the literature. Transcriptome analysis of RNA obtained from C. noxius confirmed the expression of a gene coding for Cn29 in its venom gland. Initial experiments were conducted to identify its possible function: lethality tests in mice and insects as well as ion-channel binding using in vitro electrophysiological assays. None of the physiological or biological tests displayed any activity for this peptide, which at present is considered to be another orphan peptide found in scorpion venoms. The peptide is thus the first example of a novel structural component present in scorpion venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- G B Gurrola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Av, Universidad 2001, Col. Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - J I Guijarro
- Biological NMR Technological Platform, Institut Pasteur, CNRS UMR3528, Paris, France
| | | | - R L L Mendoza
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Av, Universidad 2001, Col. Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - J I Cid-Uribe
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Av, Universidad 2001, Col. Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - F V Coronas
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Av, Universidad 2001, Col. Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico
| | - L D Possani
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Av, Universidad 2001, Col. Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos, 62210, Mexico.
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Carcamo-Noriega EN, Olamendi-Portugal T, Restano-Cassulini R, Rowe A, Uribe-Romero SJ, Becerril B, Possani LD. Intraspecific variation of Centruroides sculpturatus scorpion venom from two regions of Arizona. Arch Biochem Biophys 2018; 638:52-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2017.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Quintero-Hernández V, Jiménez-Vargas J, Gurrola G, Valdivia H, Possani L. Scorpion venom components that affect ion-channels function. Toxicon 2013; 76:328-42. [PMID: 23891887 PMCID: PMC4089097 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Accepted: 07/16/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The number and types of venom components that affect ion-channel function are reviewed. These are the most important venom components responsible for human intoxication, deserving medical attention, often requiring the use of specific anti-venoms. Special emphasis is given to peptides that recognize Na(+)-, K(+)- and Ca(++)-channels of excitable cells. Knowledge generated by direct isolation of peptides from venom and components deduced from cloned genes, whose amino acid sequences are deposited into databanks are nowadays in the order of 1.5 thousands, out of an estimate biodiversity closed to 300,000. Here the diversity of components is briefly reviewed with mention to specific references. Structural characteristic are discussed with examples taken from published work. The principal mechanisms of action of the three different types of peptides are also reviewed. Na(+)-channel specific venom components usually are modifier of the open and closing kinetic mechanisms of the ion-channels, whereas peptides affecting K(+)-channels are normally pore blocking agents. The Ryanodine Ca(++)-channel specific peptides are known for causing sub-conducting stages of the channels conductance and some were shown to be able to internalize penetrating inside the muscle cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- V. Quintero-Hernández
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico
| | - J.M. Jiménez-Vargas
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico
| | - G.B. Gurrola
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico
- Cardiovascular Center 2139, Michigan University, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5644, U.S.A
| | - H.H.F. Valdivia
- Cardiovascular Center 2139, Michigan University, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5644, U.S.A
| | - L.D. Possani
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Instituto de Biotecnologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Avenida Universidad, 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico
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Sunagar K, Undheim EAB, Chan AHC, Koludarov I, Muñoz-Gómez SA, Antunes A, Fry BG. Evolution stings: the origin and diversification of scorpion toxin peptide scaffolds. Toxins (Basel) 2013; 5:2456-87. [PMID: 24351712 PMCID: PMC3873696 DOI: 10.3390/toxins5122456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Revised: 12/09/2013] [Accepted: 12/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The episodic nature of natural selection and the accumulation of extreme sequence divergence in venom-encoding genes over long periods of evolutionary time can obscure the signature of positive Darwinian selection. Recognition of the true biocomplexity is further hampered by the limited taxon selection, with easy to obtain or medically important species typically being the subject of intense venom research, relative to the actual taxonomical diversity in nature. This holds true for scorpions, which are one of the most ancient terrestrial venomous animal lineages. The family Buthidae that includes all the medically significant species has been intensely investigated around the globe, while almost completely ignoring the remaining non-buthid families. Australian scorpion lineages, for instance, have been completely neglected, with only a single scorpion species (Urodacus yaschenkoi) having its venom transcriptome sequenced. Hence, the lack of venom composition and toxin sequence information from an entire continent’s worth of scorpions has impeded our understanding of the molecular evolution of scorpion venom. The molecular origin, phylogenetic relationships and evolutionary histories of most scorpion toxin scaffolds remain enigmatic. In this study, we have sequenced venom gland transcriptomes of a wide taxonomical diversity of scorpions from Australia, including buthid and non-buthid representatives. Using state-of-art molecular evolutionary analyses, we show that a majority of CSα/β toxin scaffolds have experienced episodic influence of positive selection, while most non-CSα/β linear toxins evolve under the extreme influence of negative selection. For the first time, we have unraveled the molecular origin of the major scorpion toxin scaffolds, such as scorpion venom single von Willebrand factor C-domain peptides (SV-SVC), inhibitor cystine knot (ICK), disulphide-directed beta-hairpin (DDH), bradykinin potentiating peptides (BPP), linear non-disulphide bridged peptides and antimicrobial peptides (AMP). We have thus demonstrated that even neglected lineages of scorpions are a rich pool of novel biochemical components, which have evolved over millions of years to target specific ion channels in prey animals, and as a result, possess tremendous implications in therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kartik Sunagar
- CIMAR/CIIMAR, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Rua dos Bragas, 177, 4050-123 Porto, Portugal; E-Mails: (K.S.); (A.A.)
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eivind A. B. Undheim
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia; E-Mails: (E.A.B.U.); (A.H.C.C.); (I.K.)
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Angelo H. C. Chan
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia; E-Mails: (E.A.B.U.); (A.H.C.C.); (I.K.)
| | - Ivan Koludarov
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia; E-Mails: (E.A.B.U.); (A.H.C.C.); (I.K.)
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Sergio A. Muñoz-Gómez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Centre for Comparative Genomics and Evolutionary Bioinformatics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Agostinho Antunes
- CIMAR/CIIMAR, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Rua dos Bragas, 177, 4050-123 Porto, Portugal; E-Mails: (K.S.); (A.A.)
- Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bryan G. Fry
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia; E-Mails: (E.A.B.U.); (A.H.C.C.); (I.K.)
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +61-400-193-182
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10
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Valdez-Velázquez LL, Quintero-Hernández V, Romero-Gutiérrez MT, Coronas FIV, Possani LD. Mass fingerprinting of the venom and transcriptome of venom gland of scorpion Centruroides tecomanus. PLoS One 2013; 8:e66486. [PMID: 23840487 PMCID: PMC3688770 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Centruroides tecomanus is a Mexican scorpion endemic of the State of Colima, that causes human fatalities. This communication describes a proteome analysis obtained from milked venom and a transcriptome analysis from a cDNA library constructed from two pairs of venom glands of this scorpion. High perfomance liquid chromatography separation of soluble venom produced 80 fractions, from which at least 104 individual components were identified by mass spectrometry analysis, showing to contain molecular masses from 259 to 44,392 Da. Most of these components are within the expected molecular masses for Na+- and K+-channel specific toxic peptides, supporting the clinical findings of intoxication, when humans are stung by this scorpion. From the cDNA library 162 clones were randomly chosen, from which 130 sequences of good quality were identified and were clustered in 28 contigs containing, each, two or more expressed sequence tags (EST) and 49 singlets with only one EST. Deduced amino acid sequence analysis from 53% of the total ESTs showed that 81% (24 sequences) are similar to known toxic peptides that affect Na+-channel activity, and 19% (7 unique sequences) are similar to K+-channel especific toxins. Out of the 31 sequences, at least 8 peptides were confirmed by direct Edman degradation, using components isolated directly from the venom. The remaining 19%, 4%, 4%, 15% and 5% of the ESTs correspond respectively to proteins involved in cellular processes, antimicrobial peptides, venom components, proteins without defined function and sequences without similarity in databases. Among the cloned genes are those similar to metalloproteinases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fredy I. V. Coronas
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Lourival D. Possani
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
- * E-mail:
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11
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Chugunov AO, Koromyslova AD, Berkut AA, Peigneur S, Tytgat J, Polyansky AA, Pentkovsky VM, Vassilevski AA, Grishin EV, Efremov RG. Modular organization of α-toxins from scorpion venom mirrors domain structure of their targets, sodium channels. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:19014-27. [PMID: 23637230 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.431650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To gain success in the evolutionary "arms race," venomous animals such as scorpions produce diverse neurotoxins selected to hit targets in the nervous system of prey. Scorpion α-toxins affect insect and/or mammalian voltage-gated sodium channels (Na(v)s) and thereby modify the excitability of muscle and nerve cells. Although more than 100 α-toxins are known and a number of them have been studied into detail, the molecular mechanism of their interaction with Na(v)s is still poorly understood. Here, we employ extensive molecular dynamics simulations and spatial mapping of hydrophobic/hydrophilic properties distributed over the molecular surface of α-toxins. It is revealed that despite the small size and relatively rigid structure, these toxins possess modular organization from structural, functional, and evolutionary perspectives. The more conserved and rigid "core module" is supplemented with the "specificity module" (SM) that is comparatively flexible and variable and determines the taxon (mammal versus insect) specificity of α-toxin activity. We further show that SMs in mammal toxins are more flexible and hydrophilic than in insect toxins. Concomitant sequence-based analysis of the extracellular loops of Na(v)s suggests that α-toxins recognize the channels using both modules. We propose that the core module binds to the voltage-sensing domain IV, whereas the more versatile SM interacts with the pore domain in repeat I of Na(v)s. These findings corroborate and expand the hypothesis on different functional epitopes of toxins that has been reported previously. In effect, we propose that the modular structure in toxins evolved to match the domain architecture of Na(v)s.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton O Chugunov
- M. M. Shemyakin and Yu. A. Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, 117997 Moscow, Russia.
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12
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Caliskan F, García BI, Coronas FIV, Restano-Cassulini R, Korkmaz F, Sahin Y, Corzo G, Possani LD. Purification and cDNA cloning of a novel neurotoxic peptide (Acra3) from the scorpion Androctonus crassicauda. Peptides 2012; 37:106-12. [PMID: 22819772 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2012.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2012] [Revised: 07/10/2012] [Accepted: 07/10/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Androctonus crassicauda is one of the Southeastern Anatolian scorpions of Turkey with ethno-medical and toxicological importance. Two toxic peptides (Acra1 and Acra2) were isolated and characterized from the venom of this scorpion. In this communication, the isolation of an additional toxin (Acra3) by chromatographic separations (HPLC and TSK-gel sulfopropyl) and its chemical and functional characterization is reported. Acra3 is a 7620Da molecular weight peptide, with 66 amino acid residues crosslinked by four disulfide bridges. The gene coding for this peptide was cloned and sequenced. Acra3 is anticipated to undergo post-translational modifications at the C-terminal region, having an amidated serine as last residue. Injection of Acra3 induces severe neurotoxic events in mice, such as: excitability and convulsions, leading to the death of the animals within a few minutes after injection. Electrophysiological assays conducted with pure Acra3, using cells that specifically expressed sodium channels (Nav1.1-Nav1.6) showed no clear effect. The exact molecular target of Acra3 remained undiscovered, similar to three other scorpion peptides that clustered very closely in the phylogenetic tree included here. The exact target of these four peptides is not very clear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Figen Caliskan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Art, Eskisehir Osmangazi University, 26480 Eskisehir, Turkey
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13
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Rendón-Anaya M, Delaye L, Possani LD, Herrera-Estrella A. Global transcriptome analysis of the scorpion Centruroides noxius: new toxin families and evolutionary insights from an ancestral scorpion species. PLoS One 2012; 7:e43331. [PMID: 22912855 PMCID: PMC3422302 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0043331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2012] [Accepted: 07/19/2012] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Scorpion venoms have been studied for decades, leading to the identification of hundreds of different toxins with medical and pharmacological implications. However, little emphasis has been given to the description of these arthropods from cellular and evolutionary perspectives. In this report, we describe a transcriptomic analysis of the Mexican scorpion Centruroides noxius Hoffmann, performed with a pyrosequencing platform. Three independent sequencing experiments were carried out, each including three different cDNA libraries constructed from RNA extracted from the whole body of the scorpion after telson removal, and from the venom gland before and after venom extraction. Over three million reads were obtained and assembled in almost 19000 isogroups. Within the telson-specific sequences, 72 isogroups (0.4% of total unique transcripts) were found to be similar to toxins previously reported in other scorpion species, spiders and sea anemones. The annotation pipeline also revealed the presence of important elements of the small non-coding RNA processing machinery, as well as microRNA candidates. A phylogenomic analysis of concatenated essential genes evidenced differential evolution rates in this species, particularly in ribosomal proteins and proteasome components. Additionally, statistical comparison of transcript abundance before and after venom extraction showed that 3% and 2% of the assembled isogroups had higher expression levels in the active and replenishing gland, respectively. Thus, our sequencing and annotation strategies provide a general view of the cellular and molecular processes that take place in these arthropods, allowed the discovery of new pharmacological and biotechnological targets and uncovered several regulatory and metabolic responses behind the assembly of the scorpion venom. The results obtained in this report represent the first high-throughput study that thoroughly describes the universe of genes that are expressed in the scorpion Centruroides noxius Hoffmann, a highly relevant organism from medical and evolutionary perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Rendón-Anaya
- Laboratorio Nacional de Genómica para la Biodiversidad, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CINVESTAV), Irapuato, Guanajuato, México
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Luis Delaye
- Departamento de Ingeniería Genética, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CINVESTAV), Irapuato, Guanajuato, México
| | - Lourival D. Possani
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
- * E-mail: (AH-E); (LDP)
| | - Alfredo Herrera-Estrella
- Laboratorio Nacional de Genómica para la Biodiversidad, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (CINVESTAV), Irapuato, Guanajuato, México
- * E-mail: (AH-E); (LDP)
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14
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Tong X, Zhu J, Ma Y, Chen X, Wu G, He F, Cao C, Wu H. Solution Structure of BmKαIT01, an α-Insect Toxin from the Venom of the Chinese Scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch,. Biochemistry 2007; 46:11322-30. [PMID: 17877370 DOI: 10.1021/bi7006788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The solution structure of an alpha-insect toxin from Buthus martensii Karsch, BmKalphaIT01, has been determined by two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy and molecular modeling techniques. Combining the sequence homology comparison and toxicity bioassays, BmKalphaIT01 has been suggested to be a natural mutant of alpha-insect toxins and so can serve as a tool to study the relationship of structure-function among this group of toxins. The overall structure of BmKalphaIT01 shares a common core structure consisting of an alpha-helix packed against a three-stranded antiparallel beta-sheet, which exhibits distinctive local conformations within the loops connecting these secondary structure elements. The solution structure of BmKalphaIT01 features a non-proline cis peptide bond between Asn9 and Tyr10, which is proposed to mediate the spatial closing of the five-residue turn (Gln8-Cys12) and the C-terminal segment (Arg58-His64) to form the NC domain and confer the toxin insect-specific bioactivity. Conformational heterogeneity is observed in the solution of BmKalphaIT01 and could be attributed to the cis-trans isomerization of the peptide bond between residues 9 and 10. The minor conformation of BmKalphaIT01 with a trans peptide bond between Asn9 and Tyr10 may be responsible for its moderate bioactivity against mammals. The cis-trans isomerization of the peptide bond between residues 9 and 10 may be the structural basis of dual pharmacological activities of alpha-insect and alpha-like scorpion toxins, which is supported by the fact that conformational heterogeneity occurs in the solution structures of LqhalphaIT, LqqIII, and LqhIII and by comparison of the solution structure of BmKalphaIT01 with those of some relevant alpha-type toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotian Tong
- State Key Laboratory of Bio-organic and Natural Products Chemistry, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
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15
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Bosmans F, Martin-Eauclaire MF, Tytgat J. Differential effects of five 'classical' scorpion beta-toxins on rNav1.2a and DmNav1 provide clues on species-selectivity. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2006; 218:45-51. [PMID: 17118417 PMCID: PMC1868420 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2006.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2006] [Revised: 10/05/2006] [Accepted: 10/11/2006] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In general, scorpion beta-toxins have been well examined. However, few in-depth studies have been devoted to species selectivity and affinity comparisons on the different voltage-activated Na(+) channels since they have become available as cloned channels that can be studied in heterologous expression systems. As a result, their classification is largely historical and dates from early in vivo experiments on mice and cockroach and fly larvae. In this study, we aimed to provide an updated overview of selectivity and affinity of scorpion beta-toxins towards voltage-activated Na(+) channels of vertebrates or invertebrates. As pharmacological tools, we used the classic beta-toxins AaHIT, Css II, Css IV, Css VI and Ts VII and tested them on the neuronal vertebrate voltage-activated Na(+) channel, rNa(v)1.2a. For comparison, its invertebrate counterpart, DmNav1, was also tested. Both these channels were expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and the currents measured with the two-electrode voltage-clamp technique. We supplemented this data with several binding displacement studies on rat brain synaptosomes. The results lead us to propose a general classification and a novel nomenclature of scorpion beta-toxins based on pharmacological activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Bosmans
- Laboratory of Toxicology, University of Leuven, O&N 2, Postbus 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- * To whom correspondence should be addressed: J. Tytgat, Laboratory of Toxicology, University of Leuven, O&N 2, Postbus 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium. Fax: +3216323405, Tel.: +3216323403. E-mail: ; http://www.toxicology.be
| | - Marie-France Martin-Eauclaire
- CNRS FRE 2732, Biologie des Interactions Moléculaires et Cellulaires, Faculté de Médecine secteur Nord, Institut Jean Roche, Université de la Méditerranée, Bd Pierre Dramard, 13916, Marseille, Cedex 20, France
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Laboratory of Toxicology, University of Leuven, O&N 2, Postbus 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- * To whom correspondence should be addressed: J. Tytgat, Laboratory of Toxicology, University of Leuven, O&N 2, Postbus 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium. Fax: +3216323405, Tel.: +3216323403. E-mail: ; http://www.toxicology.be
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16
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Abstract
Voltage-gated Na(+) channels are integral membrane proteins that function as a gateway for a selective permeation of sodium ions across biological membranes. In this way, they are crucial players for the generation of action potentials in excitable cells. Voltage-gated Na(+) channels are encoded by at least nine genes in mammals. The different isoforms have remarkably similar functional properties, but small changes in function and pharmacology are biologically well-defined, as underscored by mutations that cause several diseases and by modulation of a myriad of compounds, respectively. This review will stress on the modulation of voltage-gated Na(+) channels by scorpion alpha-toxins. Nature has designed these two classes of molecules as if they were predestined to each other: an inevitable 'encounter' between a voltage-gated Na(+) channel isoform and an alpha-toxin from scorpion venom indeed results in a dramatically changed Na(+) current phenotype with clear-cut consequences on electrical excitability and sometimes life or death. This fascinating aspect justifies an overview on scorpion venoms, their alpha-toxins and the Na(+) channel targets they are built for, as well as on the molecular determinants that govern the selectivity and affinity of this 'inseparable duo'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Bosmans
- Laboratory of Toxicology, University of Leuven, O and N 2, Postbus 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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17
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Mirouze M, Sels J, Richard O, Czernic P, Loubet S, Jacquier A, François IEJA, Cammue BPA, Lebrun M, Berthomieu P, Marquès L. A putative novel role for plant defensins: a defensin from the zinc hyper-accumulating plant, Arabidopsis halleri, confers zinc tolerance. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2006; 47:329-42. [PMID: 16792695 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-313x.2006.02788.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The metal tolerance of metal hyper-accumulating plants is a poorly understood mechanism. In order to unravel the molecular basis of zinc (Zn) tolerance in the Zn hyper-accumulating plant Arabidopsis halleri ssp. halleri, we carried out a functional screening of an A. halleri cDNA library in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to search for genes conferring Zn tolerance to yeast cells. The screening revealed four A. halleri defensin genes (AhPDFs), which induced Zn but not cadmium (Cd) tolerance in yeast. The expression of AhPDF1.1 under the control of the 35S promoter in A. thaliana made the transgenic plants more tolerant to Zn than wild-type plants, but did not change the tolerance to Cd, copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), iron (Fe) or sodium (Na). Thus, AhPDF1.1 is able to confer Zn tolerance both to yeast and plants. In A. halleri, defensins are constitutively accumulated at a higher level in shoots than in A. thaliana. A. halleri defensin pools are Zn-responsive, both at the mRNA and protein levels. In A. thaliana, some but not all defensin genes are induced by ZnCl2 treatment, and these genes are not induced by NaCl treatment. Defensins, found in a very large number of organisms, are known to be involved in the innate immune system but have never been found to play any role in metal physiology. Our results support the proposition that defensins could be involved in Zn tolerance in A. halleri, and that a role for plant defensins in metal physiology should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Mirouze
- UMR de Biochimie et Physiologie Moléculaire des Plantes (B & PMP), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université Montpellier 2, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Ecole Nationale Supérieure Agronomique, France
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18
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Rodríguez de la Vega RC, Possani LD. Overview of scorpion toxins specific for Na+ channels and related peptides: biodiversity, structure-function relationships and evolution. Toxicon 2005; 46:831-44. [PMID: 16274721 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2005.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Scorpion venoms contain a large number of bioactive components. Several of the long-chain peptides were shown to be responsible for neurotoxic effects, due to their ability to recognize Na(+) channels and to cause impairment of channel functions. Here, we revisited the basic paradigms in the study of these peptides in the light of recent data concerning their structure-function relationships, their functional divergence and extant biodiversity. The reviewed topics include: the criteria for classification of long-chain peptides according to their function, and a revision of the state-of-the-art knowledge concerning the surface areas of contact of these peptides with known Na(+) channels. Additionally, we compiled a comprehensive list encompassing 191 different amino acid sequences from long-chain peptides purified from scorpion venoms. With this dataset, a phylogenetic tree was constructed and discussed taking into consideration their documented functional divergence. A critical view on problems associated with the study of these scorpion peptides is presented, drawing special attention to the points that need revision and to the subjects under intensive research at this moment, regarding scorpion toxins specific for Na(+) channels and the other related long-chain peptides recently described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo C Rodríguez de la Vega
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Bioprocesses, Institute of Biotechnology, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Av. Universidad 2001, Apartado Postal 510-3, Cuernavaca Morelos 62210, Mexico
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Gazarian KG, Gazarian T, Hernández R, Possani LD. Immunology of scorpion toxins and perspectives for generation of anti-venom vaccines. Vaccine 2005; 23:3357-68. [PMID: 15837360 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2004.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2004] [Revised: 08/31/2004] [Accepted: 12/22/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Scorpions and other venomous animals contain concentrates of biologically active substances developed to block vital physiological and biochemical functions of the victims. These have contrasting human health concerns, provide important pharmacological raw material and pose a serious threat to human life and health in tropical and subtropical regions. Because only occasional and minor quantities of venom are introduced into the human organism with a scorpion sting and their mortal effect is an acute phenomenon these substances are unknown to the immune defense system and thus no immunity has appeared against them during evolution. Antidotes prepared from animal anti-sera are effective against some species of scorpions but depend on the manufacturer and the availability of product to the medical community. Although significant progress has been made in immunological studies of certain groups of toxins, few centers are dedicated to this research. Information is still insufficient to generate a comprehensive picture of the subject and to propose vaccines against venoms. A novel approach based on mimotopes selected from phage-displayed random peptide libraries show potential to impel further progress of toxin immunological studies and to provide putative vaccine resources. In this report we revise the "state of the art" in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlen G Gazarian
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology of Institute of Biomedical Research, Mexican National University (UNAM), Ciudad Universitaria, Circuito escolar s/n, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México DF, México.
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