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Matkivska R, Samborska I, Maievskyi O. Effect of animal venom toxins on the main links of the homeostasis of mammals (Review). Biomed Rep 2024; 20:16. [PMID: 38144889 PMCID: PMC10739175 DOI: 10.3892/br.2023.1704] [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: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The human body is affected by environmental factors. The dynamic balance between the organism and its environment results from the influence of natural, anthropogenic and social aspects. The factors of exogenous origin determine development of adaptive changes. The present article summarises the mechanisms of animal venom toxins and homeostasis disruption in the body of mammals. The mechanisms underlying pathological changes are associated with shifts in biochemical reactions. Components of the immune, nervous and endocrine systems are key in the host defense and adaptation processes in response to venom by triggering signalling pathways (PI3kinase pathway, arachidonic acid cascade). Animal venom toxins initiate the development of inflammatory processes, the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators (cytokines), ROS, proteolytic enzymes, activate the migration of leukocytes and macrophages. Keratinocytes and endothelial cells act as protective barriers under the action of animal venom toxins on the body of mammals. In addition, the formation of pores in cell membranes, structural changes in cell ion channels are characteristic of the action of animal venom toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruzhena Matkivska
- Department of Descriptive and Clinical Anatomy, Bogomolets National Medical University, Kyiv 03680, Ukraine
| | - Inha Samborska
- Department of Biological and General Chemistry, National Pirogov Memorial Medical University, Vinnytsya 21018, Ukraine
| | - Oleksandr Maievskyi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Educational and Scientific Center ‘Institute of Biology and Medicine’ of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv 03127, Ukraine
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2
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Cerni F, Oliveira I, Cordeiro F, Bordon K, Ferreira I, Monteiro W, Arantes E, Cunha T, Pucca M. The nociceptive response induced by different classes of Tityus serrulatus neurotoxins: The important role of Ts5 in venom-induced nociception. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011057. [PMID: 36716327 PMCID: PMC9886245 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Scorpion sting envenomations (SSE) are feared by the intense pain that they produce in victims. Pain from SSE is triggered mainly by the presence of neurotoxins in the scorpion venom that modulates voltage-gated ion channels. In Brazil, SSE is mostly caused by Tityus serrulatus, popularly known as yellow scorpion. Here, we evaluated experimental spontaneous nociception induced by T. serrulatus venom as well as its isolated neurotoxins Ts1, Ts5, Ts6, Ts8, and Ts19 frag II, evidencing different degrees of pain behavior in mice. In addition, we developed a mice-derived polyclonal antibody targeting Ts5 able to neutralize the effect of this neurotoxin, showing that Ts5 presents epitopes capable of activating the immune response, which decreased considerably the nociception produced by the whole venom. This is the pioneer study to explore nociception using different classes of T. serrulatus neurotoxins on nociception (α-NaTx, β-NaTx, α-KTx, and β-KTx), targeting potassium and sodium voltage-gated channels, besides demonstrating that Ts5 plays an important role in the scorpion sting induced-pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Cerni
- Health and Sciences Postgraduate Program, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, Roraima, Brazil
| | - Isadora Oliveira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Francielle Cordeiro
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Karla Bordon
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabela Ferreira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wuelton Monteiro
- Department of Teaching and Research, Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado Tropical Medicine Foundation, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil,Department of Medicine and Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Amazonas State University, Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil
| | - Eliane Arantes
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thiago Cunha
- Center for Research in Inflammatory Diseases (CRID), Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Manuela Pucca
- Health and Sciences Postgraduate Program, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, Roraima, Brazil,Medical School, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, Roraima, Brazil,* E-mail:
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3
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Ageitos L, Torres MDT, de la Fuente-Nunez C. Biologically Active Peptides from Venoms: Applications in Antibiotic Resistance, Cancer, and Beyond. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315437. [PMID: 36499761 PMCID: PMC9740984 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptides are potential therapeutic alternatives against global diseases, such as antimicrobial-resistant infections and cancer. Venoms are a rich source of bioactive peptides that have evolved over time to act on specific targets of the prey. Peptides are one of the main components responsible for the biological activity and toxicity of venoms. South American organisms such as scorpions, snakes, and spiders are important producers of a myriad of peptides with different biological activities. In this review, we report the main venom-derived peptide families produced from South American organisms and their corresponding activities and biological targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Ageitos
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Marcelo D. T. Torres
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Cesar de la Fuente-Nunez
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Correspondence:
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4
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Biological Effects of Animal Venoms on the Human Immune System. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14050344. [PMID: 35622591 PMCID: PMC9143185 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14050344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Venoms are products of specialized glands and serve many living organisms to immobilize and kill prey, start digestive processes and act as a defense mechanism. Venoms affect different cells, cellular structures and tissues, such as skin, nervous, hematological, digestive, excretory and immune systems, as well as the heart, among other structures. Components of both the innate and adaptive immune systems can be stimulated or suppressed. Studying the effects on the cells and molecules produced by the immune system has been useful in many biomedical fields. The effects of venoms can be the basis for research and development of therapeutic protocols useful in the modulation of the immunological system, including different autoimmune diseases. This review focuses on the understanding of biological effects of diverse venom on the human immune system and how some of their components can be useful for the study and development of immunomodulatory drugs.
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Pinheiro-Junior EL, Kalina R, Gladkikh I, Leychenko E, Tytgat J, Peigneur S. A Tale of Toxin Promiscuity: The Versatile Pharmacological Effects of Hcr 1b-2 Sea Anemone Peptide on Voltage-Gated Ion Channels. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20020147. [PMID: 35200676 PMCID: PMC8878452 DOI: 10.3390/md20020147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sea anemones are a rich source of biologically active compounds. Among approximately 1100 species described so far, Heteractis crispa species, also known as sebae anemone, is native to the Indo-Pacific area. As part of its venom components, the Hcr 1b-2 peptide was first described as an ASIC1a and ASIC3 inhibitor. Using Xenopus laevis oocytes and the two-electrode voltage-clamp technique, in the present work we describe the remarkable lack of selectivity of this toxin. Besides the acid-sensing ion channels previously described, we identified 26 new targets of this peptide, comprising 14 voltage-gated potassium channels, 9 voltage-gated sodium channels, and 3 voltage-gated calcium channels. Among them, Hcr 1b-2 is the first sea anemone peptide described to interact with isoforms from the Kv7 family and T-type Cav channels. Taken together, the diversity of Hcr 1b-2 targets turns this toxin into an interesting tool to study different types of ion channels, as well as a prototype to develop new and more specific ion channel ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Lopes Pinheiro-Junior
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, KU Leuven, O&N II Herestraat 49, P.O. Box 922, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Correspondence: (E.L.P.-J.); (J.T.); (S.P.); Tel.: +32-16-32-34-04 (E.L.P.-J. & J.T. & S.P.)
| | - Rimma Kalina
- G.B. Elyakov Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 690022 Vladivostok, Russia; (R.K.); (I.G.); (E.L.)
| | - Irina Gladkikh
- G.B. Elyakov Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 690022 Vladivostok, Russia; (R.K.); (I.G.); (E.L.)
| | - Elena Leychenko
- G.B. Elyakov Pacific Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Far Eastern Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 690022 Vladivostok, Russia; (R.K.); (I.G.); (E.L.)
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, KU Leuven, O&N II Herestraat 49, P.O. Box 922, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Correspondence: (E.L.P.-J.); (J.T.); (S.P.); Tel.: +32-16-32-34-04 (E.L.P.-J. & J.T. & S.P.)
| | - Steve Peigneur
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, KU Leuven, O&N II Herestraat 49, P.O. Box 922, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Correspondence: (E.L.P.-J.); (J.T.); (S.P.); Tel.: +32-16-32-34-04 (E.L.P.-J. & J.T. & S.P.)
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García LF, Valenzuela-Rojas JC, González-Gómez JC, Lacava M, van der Meijden A. Pinching or stinging? Comparing prey capture among scorpions with contrasting morphologies. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2022; 28:e20210037. [PMID: 35432495 PMCID: PMC8985449 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0037] [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: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Scorpions can use their pincers and/or stingers to subdue and immobilize their prey. A scorpion can thus choose between strategies involving force or venom, or both, depending on what is required to subdue its prey. Scorpions vary greatly in the size and strength of their pincers, and in the efficacy of their venom. Whether this variability is driven by their defensive or prey incapacitation functionis unknown. In this study, we test if scorpion species with different pincer morphologies and venom efficacies use these weapons differently during prey subjugation. To that end, we observed Opisthacanthus elatus and Chactas sp. with large pincers and Centruroides edwardsii and Tityus sp. with slender pincers. Methods: The scorpion pinch force was measured, and behavioral experiments were performed with hard and soft prey (Blaptica dubia and Acheta domesticus). Stinger use, sting frequency and immobilization time were measured. Results: We found that scorpions with large pincers such as O. elatus produce more force and use the stinger less, mostly subjugating prey by crushing them with the pincers. In C. edwardsii and Tityus sp. we found they use their slender and relatively weak pincers for holding the prey, but seem to predominantly use the stinger to subjugate them. On the other hand, Chactas sp. uses both strategies although it has a high pinch force. Conclusions: Our results show that scorpionspecies with massive pincers and high pinch force as O. elatus use the stinger less for prey subjugation than scorpionspecies with slenderpincers.
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Diochot S. Pain-related toxins in scorpion and spider venoms: a face to face with ion channels. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210026. [PMID: 34925480 PMCID: PMC8667759 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is a common symptom induced during envenomation by spiders and scorpions.
Toxins isolated from their venom have become essential tools for studying the
functioning and physiopathological role of ion channels, as they modulate their
activity. In particular, toxins that induce pain relief effects can serve as a
molecular basis for the development of future analgesics in humans. This review
provides a summary of the different scorpion and spider toxins that directly
interact with pain-related ion channels, with inhibitory or stimulatory effects.
Some of these toxins were shown to affect pain modalities in different animal
models providing information on the role played by these channels in the pain
process. The close interaction of certain gating-modifier toxins with membrane
phospholipids close to ion channels is examined along with molecular approaches
to improve selectivity, affinity or bioavailability in vivo for
therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Diochot
- Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IPMC), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR 7275 et Université Côte d'Azur (UCA), 06560 Valbonne, France. Institut de Pharmacologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique Université Côte d'Azur Valbonne France
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de Assis DRR, Pimentel PMDO, Dos Reis PVM, Rabelo RAN, Vitor RWA, Cordeiro MDN, Felicori LF, Olórtegui CDC, Resende JM, Teixeira MM, Borges MH, de Lima ME, Pimenta AMDC, Machado FS. Tityus serrulatus (Scorpion): From the Crude Venom to the Construction of Synthetic Peptides and Their Possible Therapeutic Application Against Toxoplasma gondii Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:706618. [PMID: 34354963 PMCID: PMC8329421 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.706618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii, is a major public concern owing to its neurotropic nature and high morbidity and mortality rates in immunocompromised patients and newborns. Current treatment for this disease is inefficient and produces side effects. Inflammatory mediators produced during T. gondii infection (e.g., cytokines and nitric oxide) are crucial in controlling parasite replication. In this context, Tityus serrulatus venom (TsV) induces the production of inflammatory mediators by immune cells. Thus, this study aimed to isolate and identify the components of TsV with potential anti-T. gondii activity. TsV was extracted from scorpions and lyophilized or loaded onto a column to obtain its fractions. TsV subfractions were obtained using chromatography, and its amino acid sequence was identified and applied to peptide design using bioinformatics tools. The C57BL/6 mice and their harvested macrophages were used to test the anti-Toxoplasma activity of TsV components and peptides. TsV and its fraction F6 attenuated the replication of tachyzoites in macrophages and induced nitric oxide and cytokine (IL-12, TNF, and IL-6) production by infected cells, without host cell toxicity. Moreover, Su6-B toxin, a subfraction of F6, demonstrated anti-T. gondii activity. The partially elucidated and characterized amino acid sequence of Sub6-B demonstrated 93% similarity with T. serrulatus 2 toxin (Ts2). Ts2 mimetic peptides (“Pep1,” “Pep2a,” and “Pep2b”) were designed and synthesized. Pep1 and Pep2a, but not Pep2b, reduced the replication of tachyzoites in macrophages. In vivo, treatment of T. gondii-infected mice with Pep1, Pep2a, or Pep2b decreased the number of cerebral cysts and did not induce hepatotoxicity in the animals. Taken together, our data show promising immunomodulatory and antiparasitic activity of TsV that could be explored and applied in future therapies for treating infectious parasitic diseases such as toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Rodney Rodrigues de Assis
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Pablo Victor Mendes Dos Reis
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Rayane Aparecida Nonato Rabelo
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Wagner Almeida Vitor
- Department of Parasitology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Liza Figueiredo Felicori
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Carlos Delfin Chávez Olórtegui
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Jarbas Magalhães Resende
- Department of Chemistry, Instituto de Ciências Exatas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Mauro Martins Teixeira
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Elena de Lima
- Faculdade Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte: Programa de Pós Graduação em Medicina-Biomedicina, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Adriano Monteiro de Castro Pimenta
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Simão Machado
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 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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10
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Chow CY, Chin YKY, Walker AA, Guo S, Blomster LV, Ward MJ, Herzig V, Rokyta DR, King GF. Venom Peptides with Dual Modulatory Activity on the Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel Na V1.1 Provide Novel Leads for Development of Antiepileptic Drugs. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2019; 3:119-134. [PMID: 32259093 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.9b00079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels play a fundamental role in normal neurological function, especially via the initiation and propagation of action potentials. The NaV1.1 subtype is found in inhibitory interneurons of the brain and it is essential for maintaining a balance between excitation and inhibition in neuronal networks. Heterozygous loss-of-function mutations of SCN1A, the gene encoding NaV1.1, underlie Dravet syndrome (DS), a severe pediatric epilepsy. We recently demonstrated that selective inhibition of NaV1.1 inactivation prevents seizures and premature death in a mouse model of DS. Thus, selective modulators of NaV1.1 might be useful therapeutics for treatment of DS as they target the underlying molecular deficit. Numerous scorpion-venom peptides have been shown to modulate the activity of NaV channels, but little is known about their activity at NaV1.1. Here we report the isolation, sequence, three-dimensional structure, recombinant production, and functional characterization of two peptidic modulators of NaV1.1 from venom of the buthid scorpion Hottentotta jayakari. These peptides, Hj1a and Hj2a, are potent agonists of NaV1.1 (EC50 of 17 and 32 nM, respectively), and they present dual α/β activity by modifying both the activation and inactivation properties of the channel. NMR studies of rHj1a indicate that it adopts a cystine-stabilized αβ fold similar to known scorpion toxins. Although Hj1a and Hj2a have only limited selectivity for NaV1.1, their unusual dual mode of action provides an alternative approach to the development of selective NaV1.1 modulators for the treatment of DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Yuen Chow
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Yanni K-Y Chin
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Andrew A Walker
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Shaodong Guo
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Linda V Blomster
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Micaiah J Ward
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32306, United States
| | - Volker Herzig
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Darin R Rokyta
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida 32306, United States
| | - Glenn F King
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
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Dorce VAC, da Rocha MMT, Candido DM, Nencioni ALA, Auada AVV, Barbaro KC, Lebrun I. Influence of different processing techniques on the toxicity and biochemical characteristics of Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom. Toxicon 2018; 156:41-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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12
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Batista C, Martins J, Restano-Cassulini R, Coronas F, Zamudio F, Procópio R, Possani L. Venom characterization of the Amazonian scorpion Tityus metuendus. Toxicon 2018; 143:51-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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13
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Nencioni ALA, Neto EB, de Freitas LA, Dorce VAC. Effects of Brazilian scorpion venoms on the central nervous system. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2018; 24:3. [PMID: 29410679 PMCID: PMC5781280 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-018-0139-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In Brazil, the scorpion species responsible for most severe incidents belong to the Tityus genus and, among this group, T. serrulatus, T. bahiensis, T. stigmurus and T. obscurus are the most dangerous ones. Other species such as T. metuendus, T. silvestres, T. brazilae, T. confluens, T. costatus, T. fasciolatus and T. neglectus are also found in the country, but the incidence and severity of accidents caused by them are lower. The main effects caused by scorpion venoms - such as myocardial damage, cardiac arrhythmias, pulmonary edema and shock - are mainly due to the release of mediators from the autonomic nervous system. On the other hand, some evidence show the participation of the central nervous system and inflammatory response in the process. The participation of the central nervous system in envenoming has always been questioned. Some authors claim that the central effects would be a consequence of peripheral stimulation and would be the result, not the cause, of the envenoming process. Because, they say, at least in adult individuals, the venom would be unable to cross the blood-brain barrier. In contrast, there is some evidence showing the direct participation of the central nervous system in the envenoming process. This review summarizes the major findings on the effects of Brazilian scorpion venoms on the central nervous system, both clinically and experimentally. Most of the studies have been performed with T. serrulatus and T. bahiensis. Little information is available regarding the other Brazilian Tityus species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emidio Beraldo Neto
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Butantan Institute, Av. Dr. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, SP 05503-900 Brazil
- Graduation Program in Sciences – Toxinology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | - Lucas Alves de Freitas
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Butantan Institute, Av. Dr. Vital Brasil, 1500, São Paulo, SP 05503-900 Brazil
- Graduation Program in Sciences – Toxinology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP Brazil
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14
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Yang F, Liu S, Zhang Y, Qin C, Xu L, Li W, Cao Z, Li W, Wu Y. Expression of recombinant α-toxin BmKM9 from scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch and its functional characterization on sodium channels. Peptides 2018; 99:153-160. [PMID: 28986244 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2017.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Scorpion toxins are invaluable pharmacological tools for studying ion channels and potential drugs for channelopathies. The long-chain toxins from scorpion venom with four disulfide bridges exhibit their unusual bioactivity or biotoxicity by acting on the sodium channels. However, the functional properties of most toxins are still unclear due to their tiny amounts in crude venom and their challenging production by chemical and gene engineering techniques. Here, we expressed one of the long-chain α-toxins, BmKM9, found in the venom of the scorpion Buthus martensii Karsch and characterized its pharmacological properties on sodium channels. Unlike previous toxin production, the recombinant BmKM9 (rBmKM9) possessed no additional amino acid residues such as the His-tag and thrombin cleavage site. The refolded toxin could inhibit the inactivation of rNav1.4, hNav1.5 and hNav1.7 sodium channels. Dose-response experiments were further conducted on these channels. The calculated EC50 values were 131.7±6.6nM for rNav1.4, 454.2±50.1nM for hNav1.5 and 30.9±10.3μM for hNav1.7. The channel activation experiments indicated that the rBmKM9 toxin could shift the activation curves of rNav1.4 and hNav1.5 channels toward a more negative direction and present the typical features of a β-toxin. However, instead of the same activation property on sodium channels, the rBmKM9 toxin could result in different inactivation shift capabilities on rNav1.4 and hNav1.5 channels. The V1/2 values of the steady-state inactivation were altered to be more positive for rNav1.4 and more negative for hNav1.5. Moreover, the recovery of the hNav1.5 channel from inactivation was more significantly delayed than that of the rNav1.4 channel by exposure to rBmKM9. Together, these findings highlighted that the rBmKM9 toxin presents the pharmacological properties of both α- and β-toxins, which would increase the challenge to the classical classification of scorpion toxins. Furthermore, the expression method and functional information on sodium channels would promote the potential application of toxins and contribute to further channel structural and functional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yaoyun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Chenhu Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Lingna Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Wenhua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China; Biodrug Research Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Zhijian Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China; Biodrug Research Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Wenxin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China; Biodrug Research Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
| | - Yingliang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China; Biodrug Research Center, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
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15
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Kuldyushev NA, Berkut AA, Peigneur S, Tytgat J, Grishin EV, Vassilevski AA. Design of sodium channel ligands with defined selectivity - a case study in scorpion alpha-toxins. FEBS Lett 2017; 591:3414-3420. [DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.12839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nikita A. Kuldyushev
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry; Russian Academy of Sciences; Moscow Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (State University); Russia
| | - Antonina A. Berkut
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry; Russian Academy of Sciences; Moscow Russia
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (State University); Russia
| | - Steve Peigneur
- Toxicology and Pharmacology; University of Leuven; Belgium
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology; University of Leuven; Belgium
| | - Eugene V. Grishin
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry; Russian Academy of Sciences; Moscow Russia
| | - Alexander A. Vassilevski
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry; Russian Academy of Sciences; Moscow Russia
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16
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Duque HM, Mourão CBF, Tibery DV, Barbosa EA, Campos LA, Schwartz EF. To4, the first Tityus obscurus β-toxin fully electrophysiologically characterized on human sodium channel isoforms. Peptides 2017; 95:106-115. [PMID: 28735770 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2017.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Many scorpion toxins that act on sodium channels (NaScTxs) have been characterized till date. These toxins may act modulating the inactivation or the activation of sodium channels and are named α- or β-types, respectively. Some venom toxins from Tityus obscurus (Buthidae), a scorpion widely distributed in the Brazilian Amazon, have been partially characterized in previous studies; however, little information about their electrophysiological role on sodium ion channels has been published. In the present study, we describe the purification, identification and electrophysiological characterization of a NaScTx, which was first described as Tc54 and further fully sequenced and renamed To4. This toxin shows a marked β-type effect on different sodium channel subtypes (hNav1.1-hNav1.7) at low concentrations, and has more pronounced activity on hNav1.1, hNav1.2 and hNav1.4. By comparing To4 primary structure with other Tityus β-toxins which have already been electrophysiologically tested, it is possible to establish some key amino acid residues for the sodium channel activity. Thus, To4 is the first toxin from T. obscurus fully electrophysiologically characterized on different human sodium channel isoforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry Morales Duque
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Brasília, 70910-900, DF, Brazil
| | - Caroline Barbosa Farias Mourão
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Brasília, 70910-900, DF, Brazil; Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia de Brasília, Campus Ceilândia, Brasília 72220-260, DF, Brazil
| | - Diogo Vieira Tibery
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Brasília, 70910-900, DF, Brazil
| | - Eder Alves Barbosa
- LSAB - Laboratório de Síntese e Análise de Biomoléculas, Instituto de Química, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília 70910-900, DF, Brazil
| | - Leandro Ambrósio Campos
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Brasília, 70910-900, DF, Brazil
| | - Elisabeth Ferroni Schwartz
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Brasília, 70910-900, DF, Brazil.
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17
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Deuis JR, Mueller A, Israel MR, Vetter I. The pharmacology of voltage-gated sodium channel activators. Neuropharmacology 2017; 127:87-108. [PMID: 28416444 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2017.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Toxins and venom components that target voltage-gated sodium (NaV) channels have evolved numerous times due to the importance of this class of ion channels in the normal physiological function of peripheral and central neurons as well as cardiac and skeletal muscle. NaV channel activators in particular have been isolated from the venom of spiders, wasps, snakes, scorpions, cone snails and sea anemone and are also produced by plants, bacteria and algae. These compounds have provided key insight into the molecular structure, function and pathophysiological roles of NaV channels and are important tools due to their at times exquisite subtype-selectivity. We review the pharmacology of NaV channel activators with particular emphasis on mammalian isoforms and discuss putative applications for these compounds. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Venom-derived Peptides as Pharmacological Tools.'
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Deuis
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Alexander Mueller
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Mathilde R Israel
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - Irina Vetter
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia; School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102, Australia.
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18
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Israel MR, Tay B, Deuis JR, Vetter I. Sodium Channels and Venom Peptide Pharmacology. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2017; 79:67-116. [PMID: 28528674 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2017.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Venomous animals including cone snails, spiders, scorpions, anemones, and snakes have evolved a myriad of components in their venoms that target the opening and/or closing of voltage-gated sodium channels to cause devastating effects on the neuromuscular systems of predators and prey. These venom peptides, through design and serendipity, have not only contributed significantly to our understanding of sodium channel pharmacology and structure, but they also represent some of the most phyla- and isoform-selective molecules that are useful as valuable tool compounds and drug leads. Here, we review our understanding of the basic function of mammalian voltage-gated sodium channel isoforms as well as the pharmacology of venom peptides that act at these key transmembrane proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde R Israel
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Bryan Tay
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jennifer R Deuis
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Irina Vetter
- Centre for Pain Research, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; School of Pharmacy, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
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19
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Housley DM, Housley GD, Liddell MJ, Jennings EA. Scorpion toxin peptide action at the ion channel subunit level. Neuropharmacology 2016; 127:46-78. [PMID: 27729239 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This review categorizes functionally validated actions of defined scorpion toxin (SCTX) neuropeptides across ion channel subclasses, highlighting key trends in this rapidly evolving field. Scorpion envenomation is a common event in many tropical and subtropical countries, with neuropharmacological actions, particularly autonomic nervous system modulation, causing significant mortality. The primary active agents within scorpion venoms are a diverse group of small neuropeptides that elicit specific potent actions across a wide range of ion channel classes. The identification and functional characterisation of these SCTX peptides has tremendous potential for development of novel pharmaceuticals that advance knowledge of ion channels and establish lead compounds for treatment of excitable tissue disorders. This review delineates the unique specificities of 320 individual SCTX peptides that collectively act on 41 ion channel subclasses. Thus the SCTX research field has significant translational implications for pathophysiology spanning neurotransmission, neurohumoral signalling, sensori-motor systems and excitation-contraction coupling. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled 'Venom-derived Peptides as Pharmacological Tools.'
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Housley
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, Cairns Campus, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia; Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Gary D Housley
- Translational Neuroscience Facility and Department of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Australia, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Michael J Liddell
- Centre for Tropical Environmental and Sustainability Science and College of Science & Engineering, Cairns Campus, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia
| | - Ernest A Jennings
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, Cairns Campus, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia; Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, James Cook University, Queensland 4878, Australia; Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns Campus, QLD, Australia
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20
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de Oliveira GH, Cerni FA, Cardoso IA, Arantes EC, Pucca MB. Tityus serrulatus envenoming in non-obese diabetic mice: a risk factor for severity. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2016; 22:26. [PMID: 27660634 PMCID: PMC5027101 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-016-0081-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Brazil, accidents with venomous animals are considered a public health problem. Tityus serrulatus (Ts), popularly known as the yellow scorpion, is most frequently responsible for the severe accidents in the country. Ts envenoming can cause several signs and symptoms classified according to their clinical manifestations as mild, moderate or severe. Furthermore, the victims usually present biochemical alterations, including hyperglycemia. Nevertheless, Ts envenoming and its induced hyperglycemia were never studied or documented in a patient with diabetes mellitus (DM). Therefore, this is the first study to evaluate the glycemia during Ts envenoming using a diabetic animal model (NOD, non-obese diabetic). METHODS Female mice (BALB/c or NOD) were challenged with a non-lethal dose of Ts venom. Blood glucose level was measured (tail blood using a glucose meter) over a 24-h period. The total glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were measured 30 days after Ts venom injection. Moreover, the insulin levels were analyzed at the glycemia peak. RESULTS The results demonstrated that the envenomed NOD animals presented a significant increase of glycemia, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and insulin levels compared to the envenomed BALB/c control group, corroborating that DM victims present great risk of developing severe envenoming. Moreover, the envenomed NOD animals presented highest risk of death and sequelae. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated that the diabetic victims stung by Ts scorpion should be always considered a risk group for scorpion envenoming severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Honda de Oliveira
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Felipe Augusto Cerni
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Iara Aimê Cardoso
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Eliane Candiani Arantes
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Manuela Berto Pucca
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
- Medical School of Roraima, Federal University of Roraima (UFRR), Av. Capitão Ene Garcez, 2413, Boa Vista, RR 69310-000 Brazil
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21
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Pucca MB, Cerni FA, Pinheiro-Junior EL, Zoccal KF, Bordon KDCF, Amorim FG, Peigneur S, Vriens K, Thevissen K, Cammue BPA, Júnior RBM, Arruda E, Faccioli LH, Tytgat J, Arantes EC. Non-disulfide-bridged peptides from Tityus serrulatus venom: Evidence for proline-free ACE-inhibitors. Peptides 2016; 82:44-51. [PMID: 27221550 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Revised: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The present study purifies two T. serrulatus non-disulfide-bridged peptides (NDBPs), named venom peptides 7.2 (RLRSKG) and 8 (KIWRS) and details their synthesis and biological activity, comparing to the synthetic venom peptide 7.1 (RLRSKGKK), previously identified. The synthetic replicate peptides were subjected to a range of biological assays: hemolytic, antifungal, antiviral, electrophysiological, immunological and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition activities. All venom peptides neither showed to be cytolytic nor demonstrated significant antifungal or antiviral activities. Interestingly, peptides were able to modulate macrophages' responses, increasing IL-6 production. The three venom peptides also demonstrated potential to inhibit ACE in the following order: 7.2>7.1>8. The ACE inhibition activity was unexpected, since peptides that display this function are usually proline-rich peptides. In attempt to understand the origin of such small peptides, we discovered that the isolated peptides 7.2 and 8 are fragments of the same molecule, named Pape peptide precursor. Furthermore, the study discusses that Pape fragments could be originated from a post-splitting mechanism resulting from metalloserrulases and other proteinases cleavage, which can be seen as a clever mechanism used by the scorpion to enlarge its repertoire of venom components. Scorpion venom remains as an interesting source of bioactive proteins and this study advances our knowledge about three NDBPs and their biological activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Berto Pucca
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe Augusto Cerni
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Ernesto Lopes Pinheiro-Junior
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Karina Furlani Zoccal
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Karla de Castro Figueiredo Bordon
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Gobbi Amorim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Steve Peigneur
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kim Vriens
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, University of Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Karin Thevissen
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, University of Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium
| | - Bruno Philippe Angelo Cammue
- Centre of Microbial and Plant Genetics, University of Leuven, Heverlee, Belgium; Department of Plant Systems Biology, VIB, Technologiepark 927, 9052 Gent, Belgium
| | | | - Eurico Arruda
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Lúcia Helena Faccioli
- Department of Clinical Analysis, Toxicology and Food Science, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eliane Candiani Arantes
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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22
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Pucca MB, Cerni FA, Cordeiro FA, Peigneur S, Cunha TM, Tytgat J, Arantes EC. Ts8 scorpion toxin inhibits the Kv4.2 channel and produces nociception in vivo. Toxicon 2016; 119:244-52. [PMID: 27346450 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The venom from the scorpion Tityus serrulatus (Ts) has been extensively studied mainly because of its rich cocktail of neurotoxins. Neurotoxins are the major and the most known components based on their modulation of voltage-gated ion channels. Until now, electrophysiological studies demonstrated that the Ts venom comprises toxins that affect Nav and Kv channels. However, although many studies have been conducted in this field, many peptides from Ts venom await further studies, including Ts8 toxin. Here we report the isolation and electrophysiological study of Ts8. The toxin Ts19 Frag-II was used as negative control. Ts8 demonstrates, among 20 tested channels, to be a selective modulator of Kv4.2 channels. Based on studies investigating the involvement of Kv4.2 on controlling nociception, we further investigated the modulation of pain by Ts8. Using intraplantar injections, Ts8 induced overt nociception (licking and lifting behaviors) and decreased the mechanical nociceptive threshold (hyperalgesia). Furthermore, the hyperalgesia was prolonged when intrathecal injections were performed. Independent of the severity, most of the victims stung by Ts scorpions report an intense and persistent pain as the major manifestation. The new role of Ts8 on nociception could explain, at least partially, this phenomenon. Additionally, our study also stresses the involvement of toxins specific to Nav channels and inflammatory mediators on the Ts painful sting. This work provides useful insights for a better understanding of the prolonged and intense pain associated with Ts envenoming for the development of specific therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Berto Pucca
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe Augusto Cerni
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Francielle Almeida Cordeiro
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Steve Peigneur
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Thiago Mattar Cunha
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eliane Candiani Arantes
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Pucca MB, Bertolini TB, Cerni FA, Bordon KCF, Peigneur S, Tytgat J, Bonato VL, Arantes EC. Immunosuppressive evidence of Tityus serrulatus toxins Ts6 and Ts15: insights of a novel K(+) channel pattern in T cells. Immunology 2016; 147:240-50. [PMID: 26595158 DOI: 10.1111/imm.12559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2015] [Revised: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated potassium channel Kv1.3 is a novel target for immunomodulation of autoreactive effector memory T cells, which play a major role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. In this study, the Ts6 and Ts15 toxins isolated from Tityus serrulatus (Ts) were investigated for their immunosuppressant roles on CD4(+) cell subsets: naive, effector (TEF ), central memory (TCM) and effector memory (TEM). The electrophysiological assays confirmed that both toxins were able to block Kv1.3 channels. Interestingly, an extended Kv channel screening shows that Ts15 blocks Kv2.1 channels. Ts6 and Ts15 significantly inhibit the proliferation of TEM cells and interferon-γ production; however, Ts15 also inhibits other CD4(+) cell subsets (naive, TEF and TCM). Based on the Ts15 inhibitory effect of proliferation of all CD4(+) cell subsets, and based on its blocking effect on Kv2.1, we investigated the Kv2.1 expression in T cells. The assays showed that CD4(+) and CD8(+) cells express the Kv2.1 channels mainly extracellularly with TCM cells expressing the highest number of Kv2.1 channels. We also provide in vivo experimental evidence to the protective effect of Ts6 and Ts15 on delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction. Altogether, this study presents the immunosuppressive behaviour of Ts6 and Ts15 toxins, indicating that these toxins could be promising candidates for autoimmune disease therapy. Moreover, this is the first report illustrating the involvement of a novel K(+) channel subtype, Kv2.1, and its distribution in T-cell subsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela B Pucca
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Thaís B Bertolini
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe A Cerni
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Karla C F Bordon
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Steve Peigneur
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Vânia L Bonato
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Eliane C Arantes
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Lima PC, Bordon KCF, Pucca MB, Cerni FA, Zoccal KF, Faccioli LH, Arantes EC. Partial purification and functional characterization of Ts19 Frag-I, a novel toxin from Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2015; 21:49. [PMID: 26628901 PMCID: PMC4666072 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-015-0051-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The yellow scorpion Tityus serrulatus (Ts) is responsible for the highest number of accidents and the most severe scorpion envenoming in Brazil. Although its venom has been studied since the 1950s, it presents a number of orphan peptides that have not been studied so far. The objective of our research was to isolate and identify the components present in the fractions VIIIA and VIIIB of Ts venom, in order to search for a novel toxin. The major isolated toxins were further investigated for macrophage modulation. METHODS The fractions VIIIA and VIIIB, obtained from Ts venom cation exchange chromatography, were rechromatographed on a C18 column (4.6 × 250 mm) followed by a reversed-phase chromatography using another C18 column (2.1 × 250 mm). The main eluted peaks were analyzed by MALDI-TOF and Edman's degradation and tested on macrophages. RESULTS The previously described toxins Ts2, Ts3-KS, Ts4, Ts8, Ts8 propeptide, Ts19 Frag-II and the novel peptide Ts19 Frag-I were isolated from the fractions VIIIA and VIIIB. Ts19 Frag-I, presenting 58 amino acid residues, a mass of 6,575 Da and a theoretical pI of 8.57, shares high sequence identity with potassium channel toxins (KTx). The toxins Ts4, Ts3-KS and the partially purified Ts19 Frag-I did not produce cytotoxic effects on macrophage murine cells line (J774.1). On the other hand, Ts19 Frag-I induced the release of nitric oxide (NO) by macrophages, while Ts4 and Ts3-KS did not affect the NO production at the tested concentration (50 μg/mL). At the same concentration, Ts19 Frag-I and Ts3-KS increased the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6). Ts19 Frag-I and Ts4 did not induce the release of IL-10, IL-1β or tumor necrosis factor-α by macrophage cells using the tested concentration (50 μg/mL). CONCLUSIONS We partially purified and determined the complete sequence and chemical/physical parameters of a new β-KTx, denominated Ts19 Frag-I. The toxins Ts4, Ts3-KS and Ts19 Frag-I showed no cytotoxicity toward macrophages and induced IL-6 release. Ts19 Frag-I also induced the release of NO, suggesting a pro-inflammatory activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila C Lima
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Karla C F Bordon
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Manuela B Pucca
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Felipe A Cerni
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Karina F Zoccal
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Lucia H Faccioli
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
| | - Eliane C Arantes
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil.,Departamento de Física e Química, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Avenida do Café, s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14.040-903 Brazil
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Abstract
Tityus serrulatus (Ts) is the main scorpion species of medical importance in Brazil. Ts venom is composed of several compounds such as mucus, inorganic salts, lipids, amines, nucleotides, enzymes, kallikrein inhibitor, natriuretic peptide, proteins with high molecular mass, peptides, free amino acids and neurotoxins. Neurotoxins are considered the most responsible for the envenoming syndrome due to their pharmacological action on ion channels such as voltage-gated sodium (Nav) and potassium (Kv) channels. The major goal of this review is to present important advances in Ts envenoming research, correlating both the crude Ts venom and isolated toxins with alterations observed in all human systems. The most remarkable event lies in the Ts induced massive releasing of neurotransmitters influencing, directly or indirectly, the entire body. Ts venom proved to extremely affect nervous and muscular systems, to modulate the immune system, to induce cardiac disorders, to cause pulmonary edema, to decrease urinary flow and to alter endocrine, exocrine, reproductive, integumentary, skeletal and digestive functions. Therefore, Ts venom possesses toxins affecting all anatomic systems, making it a lethal cocktail. However, its low lethality may be due to the low venom mass injected, to the different venom compositions, the body characteristics and health conditions of the victim and the local of Ts sting. Furthermore, we also described the different treatments employed during envenoming cases. In particular, throughout the review, an effort will be made to provide information from an extensive documented studies concerning Ts venom in vitro, in animals and in humans (a total of 151 references).
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Peigneur S, Cologna CT, Cremonez CM, Mille BG, Pucca MB, Cuypers E, Arantes EC, Tytgat J. A gamut of undiscovered electrophysiological effects produced by Tityus serrulatus toxin 1 on NaV-type isoforms. Neuropharmacology 2015; 95:269-77. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2015.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Pucca MB, Cerni FA, Peigneur S, Bordon KCF, Tytgat J, Arantes EC. Revealing the Function and the Structural Model of Ts4: Insights into the "Non-Toxic" Toxin from Tityus serrulatus Venom. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 7:2534-50. [PMID: 26153865 PMCID: PMC4516927 DOI: 10.3390/toxins7072534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Revised: 06/20/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The toxin, previously described as a "non-toxic" toxin, was isolated from the scorpion venom of Tityus serrulatus (Ts), responsible for the most severe and the highest number of accidents in Brazil. In this study, the subtype specificity and selectivity of Ts4 was investigated using six mammalian Nav channels (Nav1.2→Nav1.6 and Nav1.8) and two insect Nav channels (DmNav1 and BgNav). The electrophysiological assays showed that Ts4 specifically inhibited the fast inactivation of Nav1.6 channels, the most abundant sodium channel expressed in the adult central nervous system, and can no longer be classified as a "non-toxic peptide". Based on the results, we could classify the Ts4 as a classical α-toxin. The Ts4 3D-structural model was built based on the solved X-ray Ts1 3D-structure, the major toxin from Ts venom with which it shares high sequence identity (65.57%). The Ts4 model revealed a flattened triangular shape constituted by three-stranded antiparallel β-sheet and one α-helix stabilized by four disulfide bonds. The absence of a Lys in the first amino acid residue of the N-terminal of Ts4 is probably the main responsible for its low toxicity. Other key amino acid residues important to the toxicity of α- and β-toxins are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela B Pucca
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-903, Brazil.
| | - Felipe A Cerni
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-903, Brazil.
| | - Steve Peigneur
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, O&N 2, Herestraat 49, P.O. Box 922, Leuven 3000, Belgium.
| | - Karla C F Bordon
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-903, Brazil.
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven, O&N 2, Herestraat 49, P.O. Box 922, Leuven 3000, Belgium.
| | - Eliane C Arantes
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-903, Brazil.
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Camargos TS, Bosmans F, Rego SC, Mourão CBF, Schwartz EF. The Scorpion Toxin Tf2 from Tityus fasciolatus Promotes Nav1.3 Opening. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128578. [PMID: 26083731 PMCID: PMC4470819 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We identified Tf2, the first β-scorpion toxin from the venom of the Brazilian scorpion Tityus fasciolatus. Tf2 is identical to Tb2-II found in Tityus bahiensis. We found that Tf2 selectively activates human (h)Nav1.3, a neuronal voltage-gated sodium (Nav) subtype implicated in epilepsy and nociception. Tf2 shifts hNav1.3 activation voltage to more negative values, thereby opening the channel at resting membrane potentials. Seven other tested mammalian Nav channels (Nav1.1-1.2; Nav1.4-1.8) expressed in Xenopus oocytes are insensitive upon application of 1 μM Tf2. Therefore, the identification of Tf2 represents a unique addition to the repertoire of animal toxins that can be used to investigate Nav channel function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thalita S. Camargos
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Laboratório de Toxinologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Frank Bosmans
- Department of Physiology, Johns Hopkins University—School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
- Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University—School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Solange C. Rego
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Laboratório de Toxinologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Caroline B. F. Mourão
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Laboratório de Toxinologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Elisabeth F. Schwartz
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Laboratório de Toxinologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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29
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Pucca MB, Amorim FG, Cerni FA, Bordon KDCF, Cardoso IA, Anjolette FAP, Arantes EC. Influence of post-starvation extraction time and prey-specific diet in Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom composition and hyaluronidase activity. Toxicon 2014; 90:326-36. [PMID: 25199494 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2014.08.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Revised: 08/17/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The role of diet in venom composition has been a topic of intense research interest. This work presents evidence that the variation in the venom composition from the scorpion Tityus serrulatus (Ts) is closely associated with post-starvation extraction time and prey-specific diet. The scorpions were fed with cockroach, cricket, peanut beetle or giant Tenebrio. The venoms demonstrated a pronounced difference in the total protein and toxins composition, which was evaluated by electrophoresis, reversed-phase chromatography, densitometry, hyaluronidase activity and N-terminal sequencing. Indeed, many toxins and peptides, such as Ts1, Ts2, Ts4, Ts5, Ts6, Ts15, Ts19 frag. II, hypotensins 1 and 3, PAPE peptide and peptide 9797 (first described in Ts venom), were all identified in different proportions in the analyzed Ts venoms. This study is pioneer on assessing the influence of the starvation time and the prey diet on hyaluronidase activity as well as to describe a modification of Tricine-gel-electrophoresis to evaluate this enzyme activity. Altogether, this study reveal a large contribution of the extraction time and diet on Ts venom variability as well as present a background to recommend the cockroach diet to obtain higher protein content and the cricket diet to obtain higher hyaluronidase specific activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Berto Pucca
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Gobbi Amorim
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe Augusto Cerni
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Karla de Castro Figueiredo Bordon
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Iara Aimê Cardoso
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernando Antonio Pino Anjolette
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Eliane Candiani Arantes
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Horta CCR, Magalhães BDF, Oliveira-Mendes BBR, do Carmo AO, Duarte CG, Felicori LF, Machado-de-Ávila RA, Chávez-Olórtegui C, Kalapothakis E. Molecular, immunological, and biological characterization of Tityus serrulatus venom hyaluronidase: new insights into its role in envenomation. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e2693. [PMID: 24551256 PMCID: PMC3923731 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2013] [Accepted: 12/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Scorpionism is a public health problem in Brazil, and Tityus serrulatus (Ts) is primarily responsible for severe accidents. The main toxic components of Ts venom are low-molecular-weight neurotoxins; however, the venom also contains poorly characterized high-molecular-weight enzymes. Hyaluronidase is one such enzyme that has been poorly characterized. Methods and principal findings We examined clones from a cDNA library of the Ts venom gland and described two novel isoforms of hyaluronidase, TsHyal-1 and TsHyal-2. The isoforms are 83% identical, and alignment of their predicted amino acid sequences with other hyaluronidases showed conserved residues between evolutionarily distant organisms. We performed gel filtration followed by reversed-phase chromatography to purify native hyaluronidase from Ts venom. Purified native Ts hyaluronidase was used to produce anti-hyaluronidase serum in rabbits. As little as 0.94 µl of anti-hyaluronidase serum neutralized 1 LD50 (13.2 µg) of Ts venom hyaluronidase activity in vitro. In vivo neutralization assays showed that 121.6 µl of anti-hyaluronidase serum inhibited mouse death 100%, whereas 60.8 µl and 15.2 µl of serum delayed mouse death. Inhibition of death was also achieved by using the hyaluronidase pharmacological inhibitor aristolochic acid. Addition of native Ts hyaluronidase (0.418 µg) to pre-neutralized Ts venom (13.2 µg venom+0.94 µl anti-hyaluronidase serum) reversed mouse survival. We used the SPOT method to map TsHyal-1 and TsHyal-2 epitopes. More peptides were recognized by anti-hyaluronidase serum in TsHyal-1 than in TsHyal-2. Epitopes common to both isoforms included active site residues. Conclusions Hyaluronidase inhibition and immunoneutralization reduced the toxic effects of Ts venom. Our results have implications in scorpionism therapy and challenge the notion that only neurotoxins are important to the envenoming process. In Brazil, accidents with scorpion stings have been a serious public health problem, and Tityus serrulatus (Ts) is primarily responsible for severe accidents. Therefore, efforts have been made to understand the characteristics of the molecules present in scorpion venoms. These venoms are complex mixtures, in which neurotoxins are the main toxic components. Ts venom also contains enzymes, such as hyaluronidase, that have not been well characterized. In this study, we described for the first time two sequences of Ts hyaluronidase isoforms: TsHyal-1 and TsHyal-2. We purified native hyaluronidase from Ts venom and produced anti-hyaluronidase serum in rabbits. This serum neutralized hyaluronidase activity present in Ts venom. In vivo neutralization assays showed that anti-hyaluronidase serum inhibited and delayed mouse death after injection of a lethal dose (50% lethal dose, LD50) of Ts venom. This work confirms the influence of hyaluronidase in Ts venom lethality and paves the way for the development of new strategies for scorpionism therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Campolina Rebello Horta
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas: Fisiologia e Farmacologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Bárbara de Freitas Magalhães
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Anderson Oliveira do Carmo
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Clara Guerra Duarte
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Liza Figueiredo Felicori
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Andrez Machado-de-Ávila
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Carlos Chávez-Olórtegui
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Evanguedes Kalapothakis
- Departamento de Biologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Pucca MB, Cerni FA, Peigneur S, Arantes EC, Tytgat J, Barbosa JE. Serrumab: a novel human single chain-fragment antibody with multiple scorpion toxin-neutralizing capacities. J Immunotoxicol 2013; 11:133-40. [PMID: 24001307 DOI: 10.3109/1547691x.2013.809175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In Brazil, scorpion envenomation is an important public health problem. The yellow scorpion, Tityus serrulatus (Ts), is considered the most dangerous species in the country, being responsible for the most severe clinical cases of envenomation. Currently, the administration of serum produced in horses is recognized and used as a treatment for accidents with scorpions. However, horse herds' maintenance is costly and the antibodies are heterologous, which can cause anaphylaxis and Serum Sickness. In the present work, a human monoclonal fragment antibody, Serrumab, has been analysed. Toxin neutralizing effects of Serrumab were evaluated using a two-electrode voltage-clamp technique. The results show that Serrumab presented a high neutralizing effect against Ts β-toxins (Ts1, 43.2% and Ts2, 68.8%) and none or low neutralizing effect against α-toxins (Ts3, 0% and Ts5, 10%). Additional experiments demonstrated that Serrumab was also able to neutralize the action of toxins from other scorpion genus (Css II, 45.96% and Lqh III, 100%/β- and α-toxins, respectively). This work indicated that Serrumab is able to neutralize many toxins in Ts venom, and could being considered as a neutralizing antibody for formulating a human anti-scorpion serum in Brazil. Additionally, this work demonstrated that Serrumab could neutralize different toxins from distinct scorpion genus. All these results reinforce the idea that Serrumab is a scFv antibody with multiple neutralizing capacities and a promising candidate for inclusion in scorpion anti-venoms against different genera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Berto Pucca
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto School of Medicine , Ribeirão Preto, SP , Brazil
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Durek T, Vetter I, Wang CIA, Motin L, Knapp O, Adams DJ, Lewis RJ, Alewood PF. Chemical engineering and structural and pharmacological characterization of the α-scorpion toxin OD1. ACS Chem Biol 2013; 8:1215-22. [PMID: 23527544 DOI: 10.1021/cb400012k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Scorpion α-toxins are invaluable pharmacological tools for studying voltage-gated sodium channels, but few structure-function studies have been undertaken due to their challenging synthesis. To address this deficiency, we report a chemical engineering strategy based upon native chemical ligation. The chemical synthesis of α-toxin OD1 was achieved by chemical ligation of three unprotected peptide segments. A high resolution X-ray structure (1.8 Å) of synthetic OD1 showed the typical βαββ α-toxin fold and revealed important conformational differences in the pharmacophore region when compared with other α-toxin structures. Pharmacological analysis of synthetic OD1 revealed potent α-toxin activity (inhibition of fast inactivation) at Nav1.7, as well as Nav1.4 and Nav1.6. In addition, OD1 also produced potent β-toxin activity at Nav1.4 and Nav1.6 (shift of channel activation in the hyperpolarizing direction), indicating that OD1 might interact at more than one site with Nav1.4 and Nav1.6. Investigation of nine OD1 mutants revealed that three residues in the reverse turn contributed significantly to selectivity, with the triple OD1 mutant (D9K, D10P, K11H) being 40-fold more selective for Nav1.7 over Nav1.6, while OD1 K11V was 5-fold more selective for Nav1.6 than Nav1.7. This switch in selectivity highlights the importance of the reverse turn for engineering α-toxins with altered selectivity at Nav subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Durek
- Division of
Chemistry and Structural
Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
4072
| | - Irina Vetter
- Division of
Chemistry and Structural
Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
4072
| | - Ching-I Anderson Wang
- Division of
Chemistry and Structural
Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
4072
| | - Leonid Motin
- Health Innovations
Research
Institute, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
3083
| | - Oliver Knapp
- Health Innovations
Research
Institute, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
3083
| | - David J. Adams
- Health Innovations
Research
Institute, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
3083
| | - Richard J. Lewis
- Division of
Chemistry and Structural
Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
4072
| | - Paul F. Alewood
- Division of
Chemistry and Structural
Biology, Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
4072
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Zoccal KF, Bitencourt CDS, Sorgi CA, Bordon KDCF, Sampaio SV, Arantes EC, Faccioli LH. Ts6 and Ts2 from Tityus serrulatus venom induce inflammation by mechanisms dependent on lipid mediators and cytokine production. Toxicon 2012; 61:1-10. [PMID: 23085190 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2012.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2012] [Revised: 08/27/2012] [Accepted: 10/10/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory mediators are thought to be involved in the systemic and local immune response induced by the Tityus serrulatus scorpion envenomation. New functional aspects of lipid mediators have recently been described. Here, we examine the unreported role of lipid mediators in cell recruitment to the peritoneal cavity after an injection with Ts2 or Ts6 toxins isolated from the T. serrulatus scorpion venom. In this report, we demonstrate that following a single intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of Ts2 or Ts6 (250 μg/kg) in mice, there was an induction of leukocytosis with a predominance of neutrophils observed at 4, 24, 48 and 96 h. Moreover, total protein, leukotriene (LT)B(4), prostaglandin (PG)E(2) and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels were increased. We also observed an increase of regulatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-10, after the Ts2 injection. Finally, we observed that Ts2 or Ts6 injection in 5-lipoxygenase (LO) deficient mice and in wild type (WT) 129sv mice pre-treated with LTs and PGs inhibitors (MK-886 and celecoxib, respectively) a reduction the influx of leukocytes occurs in comparison to WT. The recruitment of these cells demonstrated a phenotype characteristic of neutrophils, macrophages, CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes expressing GR1+, F4/80+, CD3+/CD4+ and CD3+/CD8+, respectively. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that Ts2 and Ts6 induce inflammation by mechanisms dependent on lipid mediators and cytokine production. Ts2 may play a regulatory role whereas Ts6 exhibits pro-inflammatory activity exclusively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Furlani Zoccal
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas, Toxicológicas e Bromatológicas, Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café, s/n, 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Peigneur S, Sevcik C, Tytgat J, Castillo C, D'Suze G. Subtype specificity interaction of bactridines with mammalian, insect and bacterial sodium channels under voltage clamp conditions. FEBS J 2012; 279:4025-38. [PMID: 22925163 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2012.08808.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2012] [Revised: 08/15/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The present work demonstrates that bactridines (Bacts) possess different selectivities for neuronal and muscular voltage-dependent sodium (Na(V) ) channels, with subtle differences on channel isoforms. Bacts 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 (100 nm) reduced the peak current of several skeletal and neuronal channel isoforms selectively. Bacts 2 and 3 were more potent on Na(V) 1.4, Bacts 4 and 6 on Na(V) 1.3 and Bact 5 on Na(V) 1.7. Bactridines (except Bacts 1 and 5) caused a hyperpolarizing shift in the V(1/2) of activation and inactivation of Na(V) 1.3, Na(V) 1.4 and Na(V) 1.6. Voltage shifts of Boltzmann curves fitted to activation and inactivation occurred with a decrease in κ. Since the slope is proportional to κ = RT/zF, changes in κ probably express changes in z, the valence, in a voltage-dependent manner. Changes in z may express toxin-induced changes in the channel ionic environment, perhaps due to surface charges of the molecules. Bact 2 induced a Na(V) 1.2 voltage shift of the activation curves but no shift of the mutant Na(V) 1.2 IFM/QQQ; peak I(N) (a) was reduced in both channel forms, suggesting that channel blockage resulted from toxin binding to a site partially distinct from the α subunit binding site 4. Bactridines emerge as potential research tools to understand sodium channel isoform structure-function relationships and also as pharmacologically interesting peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Peigneur
- Laboratory of Toxicology, University of Leuven (K.U. Leuven), Belgium
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