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Fuller G, Wirdateti, Nekaris KAI. Evaluating the Use of Chemical Weapons for Capturing Prey by a Venomous Mammal, the Greater Slow Loris ( Nycticebus coucang). Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1438. [PMID: 38791656 PMCID: PMC11117385 DOI: 10.3390/ani14101438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Few mammals are venomous, including one group of primates-slow (Nycticebus spp.) and pygmy (Xanthonycticebus spp.) lorises. Hypotheses for the evolutionary function of venom in these primates include defense from predators or ectoparasites, communication or competition with conspecifics, and the capture of prey. We tested the prey capture hypothesis in 75 trials with 22 wild-caught greater slow lorises (N. coucang) housed in a rescue center in Java, Indonesia. We experimentally offered the slow lorises arthropod prey items varying in size, escape potential, and toxicity and recorded venom-related and predatory behaviors using live and video observations. The slow lorises visually targeted arthropod prey, approached it quickly and efficiently, and captured it with a manual grasping motion. They rarely performed venom-related behaviors and seemed to do so in a defensive context. The slow lorises exhibited little variation in pre-capture behavior as a function of prey size or escape potential. In response to noxious prey, the slow lorises performed tongue-flicking and other investigative behaviors that indicate they are using chemosensory input to assess prey characteristics. These data suggest it is unlikely that slow lorises use chemical weapons to subdue arthropod prey and may support, instead, a defensive function for slow loris venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Fuller
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences and Law, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK;
- Detroit Zoological Society, Royal Oak, MI 48067, USA
| | - Wirdateti
- Division Zoology, Research Center for Biosystematics and Evolution, Badan Riset dan Inovasi Nasional (BRIN), Kawasan Sains dan Teknologi (KST), Soekarno, Cibinong 16911, Indonesia;
| | - K. A. I. Nekaris
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences and Law, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK;
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Fitzpatrick LLJ, Ligabue-Braun R, Nekaris KAI. Slowly Making Sense: A Review of the Two-Step Venom System within Slow ( Nycticebus spp.) and Pygmy Lorises ( Xanthonycticebus spp.). Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:514. [PMID: 37755940 PMCID: PMC10536643 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15090514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the early 2000s, studies of the evolution of venom within animals have rapidly expanded, offering new revelations on the origins and development of venom within various species. The venomous mammals represent excellent opportunities to study venom evolution due to the varying functional usages, the unusual distribution of venom across unrelated mammals and the diverse variety of delivery systems. A group of mammals that excellently represents a combination of these traits are the slow (Nycticebus spp.) and pygmy lorises (Xanthonycticebus spp.) of south-east Asia, which possess the only confirmed two-step venom system. These taxa also present one of the most intriguing mixes of toxic symptoms (cytotoxicity and immunotoxicity) and functional usages (intraspecific competition and ectoparasitic defence) seen in extant animals. We still lack many pieces of the puzzle in understanding how this venom system works, why it evolved what is involved in the venom system and what triggers the toxic components to work. Here, we review available data building upon a decade of research on this topic, focusing especially on why and how this venom system may have evolved. We discuss that research now suggests that venom in slow lorises has a sophisticated set of multiple uses in both intraspecific competition and the potential to disrupt the immune system of targets; we suggest that an exudate diet reveals several toxic plants consumed by slow and pygmy lorises that could be sequestered into their venom and which may help heal venomous bite wounds; we provide the most up-to-date visual model of the brachial gland exudate secretion protein (BGEsp); and we discuss research on a complement component 1r (C1R) protein in saliva that may solve the mystery of what activates the toxicity of slow and pygmy loris venom. We conclude that the slow and pygmy lorises possess amongst the most complex venom system in extant animals, and while we have still a lot more to understand about their venom system, we are close to a breakthrough, particularly with current technological advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah Lucy Joscelyne Fitzpatrick
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
- Centre for Functional Genomics, Department of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
| | - Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun
- Department of Pharmacosciences, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Avenida Sarmento Leite 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil;
| | - K. Anne-Isola Nekaris
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
- Centre for Functional Genomics, Department of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
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Ni Q, Dong S, Fan Y, Wan W, Teng P, Zhu S, Liang X, Xu H, Yao Y, Zhang M, Xie M. Molecular Epidemiology of Blastocystis in Confined Slow Lorises, Macaques, and Gibbons. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:2992. [PMID: 36359116 PMCID: PMC9656527 DOI: 10.3390/ani12212992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a common intestinal anaerobic parasite infecting non-human primates and many other animals. This taxon threatens the health of NHPs due to its high genetic diversity, impeding efforts to improve confined management and subsequent conservation practices. This study collected 100 and 154 fecal samples from captive macaques, gibbons, and slow lorises in the summer and winter, respectively. The Blastocystis infection, its gene subtypes, and its zoonotic potential based on small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) were analyzed. The prevalence of Blastocystis in the three primate genera was 57.79% (89/154) in the summer (2021) and 29.00% (29/100) in the winter (2020). Four zoonotic subtypes-ST1, ST2, ST3, and ST4-were identified. ST2 was the most prevalent subtype, suggesting that these animals may serve as reservoirs for pathogens of human Blastocystis infections. The macaques showed a more significant variation in Blastocystis infection between seasons than gibbons and slow lorises. The slow lorises in small cages and enclosure areas were potentially more infected by Blastocystis in the summer, indicating that inappropriate captive management may have detrimental effects on their health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyong Ni
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
| | - Shasha Dong
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
| | - Yumai Fan
- Dehong Wildlife Rescue Center, Forestry Bureau of Dehong Prefecture, Mangshi 678499, China
| | - Wen Wan
- Dehong Wildlife Rescue Center, Forestry Bureau of Dehong Prefecture, Mangshi 678499, China
| | - Ping Teng
- Dehong Wildlife Rescue Center, Forestry Bureau of Dehong Prefecture, Mangshi 678499, China
| | - Shaobo Zhu
- Dehong Wildlife Rescue Center, Forestry Bureau of Dehong Prefecture, Mangshi 678499, China
| | - Xiaobi Liang
- Dehong Wildlife Rescue Center, Forestry Bureau of Dehong Prefecture, Mangshi 678499, China
| | - Huailiang Xu
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya’an 625099, China
| | - Yongfang Yao
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya’an 625099, China
| | - Mingwang Zhang
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-Omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611134, China
| | - Meng Xie
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya’an 625099, China
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Functional genomics analysis reveals the evolutionary adaptation and demographic history of pygmy lorises. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2123030119. [PMID: 36161902 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2123030119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Lorises are a group of globally threatened strepsirrhine primates that exhibit many unusual physiological and behavioral features, including a low metabolic rate, slow movement, and hibernation. Here, we assembled a chromosome-level genome sequence of the pygmy loris (Xanthonycticebus pygmaeus) and resequenced whole genomes from 50 pygmy lorises and 6 Bengal slow lorises (Nycticebus bengalensis). We found that many gene families involved in detoxification have been specifically expanded in the pygmy loris, including the GSTA gene family, with many newly derived copies functioning specifically in the liver. We detected many genes displaying evolutionary convergence between pygmy loris and koala, including PITRM1. Significant decreases in PITRM1 enzymatic activity in these two species may have contributed to their characteristic low rate of metabolism. We also detected many evolutionarily convergent genes and positively selected genes in the pygmy loris that are involved in muscle development. Functional assays demonstrated the decreased ability of one positively selected gene, MYOF, to up-regulate the fast-type muscle fiber, consistent with the lower proportion of fast-twitch muscle fibers in the pygmy loris. The protein product of another positively selected gene in the pygmy loris, PER2, exhibited weaker binding to the key circadian core protein CRY, a finding that may be related to this species' unusual circadian rhythm. Finally, population genomics analysis revealed that these two extant loris species, which coexist in the same habitat, have exhibited an inverse relationship in terms of their demography over the past 1 million years, implying strong interspecies competition after speciation.
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Ni Q, Dong S, Xing B, Zeng B, Kong F, Xu H, Yao Y, Li D, Zhang M, Fan X, Yang D, Yang M, Xie M. Oral and fecal microbiome of confiscated Bengal slow lorises in response to confinement duration. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:941261. [PMID: 36238588 PMCID: PMC9553000 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.941261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Slow lorises are small arboreal and nocturnal primates. Due to the illegal trade, a large number of slow lorises were confiscated into wildlife sanctuaries or rescue centers. The re-release has been considered a preferable approach for alleviating the captive pressure, but inappropriate and long-term confinement make it difficult to achieve this goal. In this study, we investigated and compared the fecal and oral microbiome of Bengal slow lorises (Nycticebus bengalensis) under long-term captivity (LC) and short-term captivity (SC) groups based on 16s rRNA high-throughput gene sequencing. The oral microbiome displayed higher Chao1 richness but lower Shannon and Simpson indices than the fecal microbiome. The Bengal slow lorises under long-term captivity had abundant pathogenic genera in both gut and oral microbiomes, such as Desulfovibrio, Actinomyces, Capnocytophaga, Neisseria, and Fusobacterium, while some specific bacterial taxa associated with intestinal balance were more enriched in the SC group. Due to the plant gum scarcity in the diet, both groups had a low abundance of Bifidobacterium. Function profile prediction indicated that the LC group was enriched with genetic information processing and metabolism pathways due to the stable food intake. The increased membrane transport and xenobiotic metabolism and degradation functions in the SC group could be explained by the function of the host microbiome in facilitating adaptation to changing environments and diets. The results demonstrated that the oral microbiome had the potential to be used as a regular surveillance tool. Also, current captive management should be improved to ensure reintroduction success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyong Ni
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Qingyong Ni,
| | - Shasha Dong
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bolin Xing
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fanli Kong
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Yaan, China
| | - Huailiang Xu
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Yaan, China
| | - Yongfang Yao
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Yaan, China
| | - Diyan Li
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingwang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaolan Fan
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Deying Yang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mingyao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
- Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Meng Xie
- College of Life Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Yaan, China
- Meng Xie,
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Bal AK, Giordano AJ, Gouda S. Effects of a Bengal Slow Loris Nycticebus bengalensis (Primates: Lorisidae) bite: a case study from Murlen National Park, Mizoram, India. JOURNAL OF THREATENED TAXA 2022. [DOI: 10.11609/jott.7986.14.7.21449-21452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Lorisids are the only known venomous primates. Threatened by habitat loss and pet trade, lorises and the effects of their bite, have received little attention to date. Given the growing number of accounts of bites by lorises on humans and paucity of information on their venom, here we present a case study on the context and results of a Bengal Slow Loris bite that occurred in the vicinity of Murlen National Park, Mizoram, India.
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Liao Z, Tang X, Chen W, Jiang X, Chen Z, He K, Li Q, Duan Z, He X, Kamau PM, Lv L, Zhang Z, Rong M, Lv Q, Lai R. Shrew's venom quickly causes circulation disorder, analgesia and hypokinesia. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:35. [PMID: 34989866 PMCID: PMC11071750 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04116-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Multiple representatives of eulipotyphlan mammals such as shrews have oral venom systems. Venom facilitates shrews to hunt and/or hoard preys. However, little is known about their venom composition, and especially the mechanism to hoard prey in comatose states for meeting their extremely high metabolic rates. A toxin (BQTX) was identified from venomous submaxillary glands of the shrew Blarinella quadraticauda. BQTX is specifically distributed and highly concentrated (~ 1% total protein) in the organs. BQTX shares structural and functional similarities to toxins from snakes, wasps and snails, suggesting an evolutional relevancy of venoms from mammalians and non-mammalians. By potentiating thrombin and factor-XIIa and inhibiting plasmin, BQTX induces acute hypertension, blood coagulation and hypokinesia. It also shows strong analgesic function by inhibiting elastase. Notably, the toxin keeps high plasma stability with a 16-h half-life in-vivo, which likely extends intoxication to paralyze or immobilize prey hoarded fresh for later consumption and maximize foraging profit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyi Liao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiaopeng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Wenlin Chen
- No.1 Department of Breast Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University & Yunnan Tumor Hospital, kunming, 650000, Yunnan, China
| | - Xuelong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhongzheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Kai He
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Quan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Zilei Duan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiaoqin He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Peter Muiruri Kamau
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
- Kunming College of Life Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, Yunnan, China
| | - Longbao Lv
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Zhiye Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Mingqiang Rong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Qiumin Lv
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China
| | - Ren Lai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center, and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, Yunnan, China.
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Harris RJ, Nekaris KAI, Fry BG. Monkeying around with venom: an increased resistance to α-neurotoxins supports an evolutionary arms race between Afro-Asian primates and sympatric cobras. BMC Biol 2021; 19:253. [PMID: 34823526 PMCID: PMC8613972 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-021-01195-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Snakes and primates have a multi-layered coevolutionary history as predators, prey, and competitors with each other. Previous work has explored the Snake Detection Theory (SDT), which focuses on the role of snakes as predators of primates and argues that snakes have exerted a selection pressure for the origin of primates’ visual systems, a trait that sets primates apart from other mammals. However, primates also attack and kill snakes and so snakes must simultaneously avoid primates. This factor has been recently highlighted in regard to the movement of hominins into new geographic ranges potentially exerting a selection pressure leading to the evolution of spitting in cobras on three independent occasions. Results Here, we provide further evidence of coevolution between primates and snakes, whereby through frequent encounters and reciprocal antagonism with large, diurnally active neurotoxic elapid snakes, Afro-Asian primates have evolved an increased resistance to α-neurotoxins, which are toxins that target the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. In contrast, such resistance is not found in Lemuriformes in Madagascar, where venomous snakes are absent, or in Platyrrhini in the Americas, where encounters with neurotoxic elapids are unlikely since they are relatively small, fossorial, and nocturnal. Within the Afro-Asian primates, the increased resistance toward the neurotoxins was significantly amplified in the last common ancestor of chimpanzees, gorillas, and humans (clade Homininae). Comparative testing of venoms from Afro-Asian and American elapid snakes revealed an increase in α-neurotoxin resistance across Afro-Asian primates, which was likely selected against cobra venoms. Through structure-activity studies using native and mutant mimotopes of the α-1 nAChR receptor orthosteric site (loop C), we identified the specific amino acids responsible for conferring this increased level of resistance in hominine primates to the α-neurotoxins in cobra venom. Conclusion We have discovered a pattern of primate susceptibility toward α-neurotoxins that supports the theory of a reciprocal coevolutionary arms-race between venomous snakes and primates. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12915-021-01195-x.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Harris
- Venom Evolution Lab, University of Queensland, Biological Sciences, St. Lucia, Brisbane, 4072, Australia
| | - K Anne-Isola Nekaris
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK
| | - Bryan G Fry
- Venom Evolution Lab, University of Queensland, Biological Sciences, St. Lucia, Brisbane, 4072, Australia.
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9
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Vonk FJ, Bittenbinder MA, Kerkkamp HMI, Grashof DGB, Archer JP, Afonso S, Richardson MK, Kool J, van der Meijden A. A non-lethal method for studying scorpion venom gland transcriptomes, with a review of potentially suitable taxa to which it can be applied. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258712. [PMID: 34793470 PMCID: PMC8601437 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpion venoms are mixtures of proteins, peptides and small molecular compounds with high specificity for ion channels and are therefore considered to be promising candidates in the venoms-to-drugs pipeline. Transcriptomes are important tools for studying the composition and expression of scorpion venom. Unfortunately, studying the venom gland transcriptome traditionally requires sacrificing the animal and therefore is always a single snapshot in time. This paper describes a new way of generating a scorpion venom gland transcriptome without sacrificing the animal, thereby allowing the study of the transcriptome at various time points within a single individual. By comparing these venom-derived transcriptomes to the traditional whole-telson transcriptomes we show that the relative expression levels of the major toxin classes are similar. We further performed a multi-day extraction using our proposed method to show the possibility of doing a multiple time point transcriptome analysis. This allows for the study of patterns of toxin gene activation over time a single individual, and allows assessment of the effects of diet, season and other factors that are known or likely to influence intraindividual venom composition. We discuss the gland characteristics that may allow this method to be successful in scorpions and provide a review of other venomous taxa to which this method may potentially be successfully applied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freek J. Vonk
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Sciences, Division of BioAnalytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Animal Science and Health Cluster, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mátyás A. Bittenbinder
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Sciences, Division of BioAnalytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harald M. I. Kerkkamp
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Animal Science and Health Cluster, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - John P. Archer
- CIBIO-InBIO, Biopolis, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sandra Afonso
- CIBIO-InBIO, Biopolis, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Michael K. Richardson
- Animal Science and Health Cluster, Institute of Biology Leiden, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Kool
- Faculty of Sciences, Division of BioAnalytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Amsterdam Institute of Molecular and Life Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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10
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Makur KP, Utami-Atmoko SS, Setia TM, van Noordwijk MA, Vogel ER. Slow loris (Nycticebus borneanus) consumption by a wild Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus wurmbii). Primates 2021; 63:25-31. [PMID: 34787739 DOI: 10.1007/s10329-021-00960-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Vertebrate predation and consumption by wild Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus spp.) is rare. In contrast to recorded observations of slow loris consumption by Sumatran orangutans (Pongo abelii), no cases of this have been previously published for Bornean orangutans in the wild. In 2017, we observed the capture and consumption of a slow loris (Nycticebus borneanus) by an adult unflanged male Bornean orangutan at Tuanan Orangutan Research Station, which is located in the Kapuas region of Central Kalimantan. The unflanged male was together with an adult female and her 3.5-year-old offspring throughout the event. However, despite the mother and her offspring watching the male closely and occasionally begging while he consumed the loris, he resisted all food-taking attempts. This study reports, to the best of our knowledge, the first documented case of slow loris predation and consumption by a Bornean orangutan, and thus provides an important data point for understanding primate predation on other primate species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristana Parinters Makur
- Faculty of Biology, Universitas Nasional, Jl. Sawo Manila, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Primate Research Center, Universitas Nasional, Jl. Sawo Manila, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Sri Suci Utami-Atmoko
- Faculty of Biology, Universitas Nasional, Jl. Sawo Manila, Jakarta, Indonesia. .,Primate Research Center, Universitas Nasional, Jl. Sawo Manila, Jakarta, Indonesia.
| | - Tatang Mitra Setia
- Faculty of Biology, Universitas Nasional, Jl. Sawo Manila, Jakarta, Indonesia.,Primate Research Center, Universitas Nasional, Jl. Sawo Manila, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Erin R Vogel
- Department of Anthropology, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA. .,The Center for Human Evolutionary Studies, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
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11
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Alejandro J, Yamanashi Y, Nemoto K, Bercovitch FB, Huffman MA. Behavioral Changes of Solitary Housed Female Pygmy Slow Lorises ( Nycticebus pygmeaus) after Introduction into Group Enclosures. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11092751. [PMID: 34573717 PMCID: PMC8466228 DOI: 10.3390/ani11092751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pygmy slow lorises (Nycticebus pygmaeus) are threatened with extinction in the wild. Their nocturnal lifestyle and small size make them difficult to study in their natural habitat, but increasing evidence suggests that they are more social than previously thought. Our study was designed to assess the sociability of pygmy slow lorises by transferring six adult females from solo cages into environmentally enriched group home cages at the Japan Monkey Centre's Slow Loris Conservation Centre. Two females were paired to create one group, while the other four were placed together in a second group. We compared their social interactions, activity budgets, and postural behaviors before and after social housing was initiated. We found that all-female slow loris groups had a high degree of sociality, preferred to stay close to each other, nested together every night, and spent less time in locomotion and more time grooming than when living alone. These results suggest that female pygmy slow lorises actively seek companions when available. The captive housing of all-female groups of lorises could lead to better husbandry practices and improved animal welfare by allowing them to have conspecific companions. We conclude that isosexual groups of pygmy slow lorises should be preferred over single housing when possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josue Alejandro
- Primate Research Institute (PRI), Kyoto University, Inuyama 484-8506, Japan;
- Correspondence:
| | - Yumi Yamanashi
- Wildlife Research Center (WRC), Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8203, Japan; (Y.Y.); (F.B.B.)
- Center for Research and Education of Wildlife (CREW), Kyoto City Zoo, Kyoto 606-8333, Japan
| | - Kei Nemoto
- Japan Monkey Centre (JMC), Inuyama 484-0081, Japan;
| | - Fred B. Bercovitch
- Wildlife Research Center (WRC), Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8203, Japan; (Y.Y.); (F.B.B.)
| | - Michael A. Huffman
- Primate Research Institute (PRI), Kyoto University, Inuyama 484-8506, Japan;
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12
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Nekaris KAI, Campera M, Nijman V, Birot H, Rode-Margono EJ, Fry BG, Weldon A, Wirdateti W, Imron MA. Slow lorises use venom as a weapon in intraspecific competition. Curr Biol 2021; 30:R1252-R1253. [PMID: 33080192 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2020.08.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Animals have evolved an array of spectacular weapons, including antlers, forceps, proboscises, stingers, tusks and horns [1]. Weapons can be present in males and females of species needing to defend critical limiting resources, including food (rhinoceros beetles, Trypoxylus) and territories (fang blennies, Meiacanthus) [1-3]. Chemicals, including sprays, ointments and injected venoms, are another defence system used by animals. As with morphological weapons, venom can serve multiple purposes, including to facilitate feeding, in predation, and in defence when attacked [4]. Although rare, several taxa use venom for agonistic intraspecific competition (e.g. ghost shrimp, Caprella spp.; sea anemones, Actinia equina; cone snails, Conidae; male platypus, Ornithorhynchus anatinus) [4-6]. Another group of venomous mammals are the nocturnal slow lorises (Nycticebus) [7]. Slow loris bites often result in dramatic diagnostic wounds characterised by necrotic gashes to the head and extremities. Although these bites are the major cause of death of lorises in captivity, the function of this aggressive behaviour has never been studied in the wild [7]. Here, through an 8-year study of wounding patterns, territorial behaviour, and agonistic encounters of a wild population of Javan slow lorises (Nycticebus javanicus), we provide strong evidence that venom is used differentially by both sexes to defend territories and mates. VIDEO ABSTRACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A I Nekaris
- Oxford Brookes University, Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford, UK.
| | - Marco Campera
- Oxford Brookes University, Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford, UK
| | - Vincent Nijman
- Oxford Brookes University, Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford, UK
| | - Hélène Birot
- Oxford Brookes University, Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford, UK
| | - Eva Johanna Rode-Margono
- Oxford Brookes University, Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford, UK; Species Conservation Foundation (Stiftung Artenschutz), 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Bryan Grieg Fry
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Ariana Weldon
- Oxford Brookes University, Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford, UK
| | - Wirdateti Wirdateti
- Division of Zoology, Research Center for Biology, LIPI, Gedung Widyasatwaloka, Jl. Raya Jakarta-Bogor KM 46, Cibinong 16911, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Ali Imron
- Forest Resources Conservation Department, Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
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13
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Nekaris KA, Campera M, Watkins AR, Weldon AV, Hedger K, Morcatty TQ. Aposematic signaling and seasonal variation in dorsal pelage in a venomous mammal. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:11387-11397. [PMID: 34429927 PMCID: PMC8366853 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, colouration patterns are often related to concealment, intraspecific communication, including aposematic signals, and physiological adaptations. Slow lorises (Nycticebus spp.) are arboreal primates native to Southeast Asia that display stark colour contrast, are highly territorial, regularly enter torpor, and are notably one of only seven mammal taxa that possess venom. All slow loris species display a contrasting stripe that runs cranial-caudally along the median sagittal plane of the dorsum. We examine whether these dorsal markings facilitate background matching, seasonal adaptations, and intraspecific signaling. We analyzed 195 images of the dorsal region of 60 Javan slow loris individuals (Nycticebus javanicus) from Java, Indonesia. We extracted greyscale RGB values from dorsal pelage using ImageJ software and calculated contrast ratios between dorsal stripe and adjacent pelage in eight regions. We assessed through generalized linear mixed models if the contrast ratio varied with sex, age, and seasonality. We also examined whether higher contrast was related to more aggressive behavior or increased terrestrial movement. We found that the dorsal stripe of N. javanicus changed seasonally, being longer and more contrasting in the wet season, during which time lorises significantly increased their ground use. Stripes were most contrasting in younger individuals of dispersal age that were also the most aggressive during capture. The dorsal stripe became less contrasting as a loris aged. A longer stripe when ground use is more frequent can be related to disruptive colouration. A darker anterior region by younger lorises with less fighting experience may allow them to appear larger and fiercer. We provide evidence that the dorsum of a cryptic species can have multimodal signals related to concealment, intraspecific communication, and physiological adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. Anne‐Isola Nekaris
- Nocturnal Primate Research GroupFaculty of Humanities and Social SciencesOxford Brookes UniversityOxfordUK
- Little Fireface ProjectCipagantiJavaIndonesia
| | - Marco Campera
- Nocturnal Primate Research GroupFaculty of Humanities and Social SciencesOxford Brookes UniversityOxfordUK
- Little Fireface ProjectCipagantiJavaIndonesia
| | - Anna R. Watkins
- Nocturnal Primate Research GroupFaculty of Humanities and Social SciencesOxford Brookes UniversityOxfordUK
| | - Ariana V. Weldon
- Nocturnal Primate Research GroupFaculty of Humanities and Social SciencesOxford Brookes UniversityOxfordUK
| | | | - Thais Q. Morcatty
- Nocturnal Primate Research GroupFaculty of Humanities and Social SciencesOxford Brookes UniversityOxfordUK
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14
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Peplinski J, Malone MA, Fowler KJ, Potratz EJ, Pergams AG, Charmoy KL, Rasheed K, Avdieiev SS, Whelan CJ, Brown JS. Ecology of Fear: Spines, Armor and Noxious Chemicals Deter Predators in Cancer and in Nature. Front Ecol Evol 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2021.682504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In nature, many multicellular and unicellular organisms use constitutive defenses such as armor, spines, and noxious chemicals to keep predators at bay. These defenses render the prey difficult and/or dangerous to subdue and handle, which confers a strong deterrent for predators. The distinct benefit of this mode of defense is that prey can defend in place and continue activities such as foraging even under imminent threat of predation. The same qualitative types of armor-like, spine-like, and noxious defenses have evolved independently and repeatedly in nature, and we present evidence that cancer is no exception. Cancer cells exist in environments inundated with predator-like immune cells, so the ability of cancer cells to defend in place while foraging and proliferating would clearly be advantageous. We argue that these defenses repeatedly evolve in cancers and may be among the most advanced and important adaptations of cancers. By drawing parallels between several taxa exhibiting armor-like, spine-like, and noxious defenses, we present an overview of different ways these defenses can appear and emphasize how phenotypes that appear vastly different can nevertheless have the same essential functions. This cross-taxa comparison reveals how cancer phenotypes can be interpreted as anti-predator defenses, which can facilitate therapy approaches which aim to give the predators (the immune system) the upper hand. This cross-taxa comparison is also informative for evolutionary ecology. Cancer provides an opportunity to observe how prey evolve in the context of a unique predatory threat (the immune system) and varied environments.
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15
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Trim CM, Byrne LJ, Trim SA. Utilisation of compounds from venoms in drug discovery. PROGRESS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2021; 60:1-66. [PMID: 34147202 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmch.2021.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Difficult drug targets are becoming the normal course of business in drug discovery, sometimes due to large interacting surfaces or only small differences in selectivity regions. For these, a different approach is merited: compounds lying somewhere between the small molecule and the large antibody in terms of many properties including stability, biodistribution and pharmacokinetics. Venoms have evolved over millions of years to be complex mixtures of stable molecules derived from other somatic molecules, the stability comes from the pressure to be ready for delivery at a moment's notice. Snakes, spiders, scorpions, jellyfish, wasps, fish and even mammals have evolved independent venom systems with complex mixtures in their chemical arsenal. These venom-derived molecules have been proven to be useful tools, such as for the development of antihypotensive angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and have also made successful drugs such as Byetta® (Exenatide), Integrilin® (Eptifibatide) and Echistatin. Only a small percentage of the available chemical space from venoms has been investigated so far and this is growing. In a new era of biological therapeutics, venom peptides present opportunities for larger target engagement surface with greater stability than antibodies or human peptides. There are challenges for oral absorption and target engagement, but there are venom structures that overcome these and thus provide substrate for engineering novel molecules that combine all desired properties. Venom researchers are characterising new venoms, species, and functions all the time, these provide great substrate for solving the challenges presented by today's difficult targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol M Trim
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Social Sciences, Natural and Applied Sciences, School of Psychology and Life Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Lee J Byrne
- Faculty of Science, Engineering and Social Sciences, Natural and Applied Sciences, School of Psychology and Life Sciences, Canterbury Christ Church University, Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom
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16
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Popescu FD, Ganea CS, Panaitescu C, Vieru M. Molecular diagnosis in cat allergy. World J Methodol 2021; 11:46-60. [PMID: 34026578 PMCID: PMC8127422 DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v11.i3.46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Domestic cats represent one of the most common sources of indoor allergens. All over the world, many households own cats, whose allergens are persistent and widespread. Cat allergy itself is frequent, and its symptoms vary from rhinoconjunctivitis to life-threatening asthma. In vitro diagnosis using precision medicine allergy immunoassays is important because natural cat dander extracts may differ in quality and quantity of some of the individual allergen components and other molecules. In the component-resolved diagnosis of cat allergy, singleplex and multiplex specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E assays include use of the cat-specific major allergen, secretoglobin Fel d 1 (as a species-specific molecule), other allergen components (such as lipocalins Fel d 4, cross-reacting with other animal similar molecules, and Fel d 7, present in small quantities in natural extracts), and serum albumin Fel d 2 (related to the cat-pork syndrome). IgA Fel d 5 and IgM Fel d 6 are not available as allergen components in the current commercial IgE immunoassays, but they may impair the in vitro diagnostic evaluation of cat allergy because galactose-α1,3-galactose is an IgE-binding epitope of these native feline allergens. The benefits of molecular-based cat allergy diagnosis are continually evaluated, as the role of recombinant allergen components already known is detailed and new other molecules of interest may be discovered in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin-Dan Popescu
- Department of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest 022441, Romania
- Department of Allergology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 022441, Romania
| | - Carmen Saviana Ganea
- Department of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest 022441, Romania
| | - Carmen Panaitescu
- Department III Functional Sciences, Physiology Discipline, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timișoara 300041, Romania
- Center for Gene and Cell Therapies in Cancer Treatment OncoGen-SCJUPB Timisoara, Timișoara 300041, Romania
| | - Mariana Vieru
- Department of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, “Nicolae Malaxa” Clinical Hospital, Bucharest 022441, Romania
- Department of Allergology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 022441, Romania
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17
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Munds RA, Titus CL, Moreira LAA, Eggert LS, Blomquist GE. Examining the molecular basis of coat color in a nocturnal primate family (Lorisidae). Ecol Evol 2021; 11:4442-4459. [PMID: 33976821 PMCID: PMC8093732 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Organisms use color for camouflage, sexual signaling, or as a warning sign of danger. Primates are one of the most vibrantly colored Orders of mammals. However, the genetics underlying their coat color are poorly known, limiting our ability to study molecular aspects of its evolution. The role of the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) in color evolution has been implicated in studies on rocket pocket mice (Chaetodipus intermediusi), toucans (Ramphastidae), and many domesticated animals. From these studies, we know that changes in MC1R result in a yellow/red or a brown/black morphology. Here, we investigate the evolution of MC1R in Lorisidae, a monophyletic nocturnal primate family, with some genera displaying high contrast variation in color patterns and other genera being monochromatic. Even more unique, the Lorisidae family has the only venomous primate: the slow loris (Nycticebus). Research has suggested that the contrasting coat patterns of slow lorises are aposematic signals for their venom. If so, we predict the MC1R in slow lorises will be under positive selection. In our study, we found that Lorisidae MC1R is under purifying selection (ω = 0.0912). In Lorisidae MC1R, there were a total of 75 variable nucleotides, 18 of which were nonsynonymous. Six of these nonsynonymous substitutions were found on the Perodicticus branch, which our reconstructions found to be the only member of Lorisidae that has predominantly lighter coat color; no substitutions were associated with Nycticebus. Our findings generate new insight into the genetics of pelage color and evolution among a unique group of nocturnal mammals and suggest putative underpinnings of monochromatic color evolution in the Perodicticus lineage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A. Munds
- Department of Anthropology & ArchaeologyUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
- Nocturnal Primate Research GroupOxford Brookes UniversityOxfordUK
| | - Chelsea L. Titus
- Division of Biological SciencesUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMOUSA
| | - Lais A. A. Moreira
- Department of Anthropology & ArchaeologyUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
| | - Lori S. Eggert
- Division of Biological SciencesUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMOUSA
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18
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Barrett M, Campera M, Morcatty TQ, Weldon AV, Hedger K, Maynard KQ, Imron MA, Nekaris KAI. Risky Business: The Function of Play in a Venomous Mammal-The Javan Slow Loris ( Nycticebus javanicus). Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:318. [PMID: 33925251 PMCID: PMC8145416 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13050318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Immature mammals require opportunities to develop skills that will affect their competitive abilities and reproductive success as adults. One way these benefits may be achieved is through play behavior. While skills in developing use of tusks, antlers, and other weapons mammals have been linked to play, play in venomous animals has rarely been studied. Javan slow lorises (Nycticebus javanicus) use venom to aid in intraspecific competition, yet whether individuals use any behavioral mechanisms to develop the ability to use venom remains unclear. From April 2012 to December 2020, we recorded 663 play events and studied the factors influencing the frequency of play and the postures used during play in wild Javan slow lorises. Regardless of the presence of siblings, two thirds of play partners of young slow lorises were older and more experienced adults. Young lorises engaged in riskier behaviors during play, including using more strenuous postures and playing more in riskier conditions with increased rain and moonlight. We found that play patterns in immature lorises bear resemblance to venom postures used by adults. We suggest that play functions to train immature lorises to deal with future unexpected events, such as random attacks, as seen in other mammalian taxa with weapons. Given the importance of venom use for highly territorial slow lorises throughout their adult lives and the similarities between venom and play postures, we cannot rule out the possibility that play also prepares animals for future venomous fights. We provide here a baseline for the further exploration of the development of this unique behavior in one of the few venomous mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meg Barrett
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (M.B.); (M.C.); (T.Q.M.); (A.V.W.); (K.H.); (K.Q.M.)
| | - Marco Campera
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (M.B.); (M.C.); (T.Q.M.); (A.V.W.); (K.H.); (K.Q.M.)
| | - Thais Q. Morcatty
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (M.B.); (M.C.); (T.Q.M.); (A.V.W.); (K.H.); (K.Q.M.)
| | - Ariana V. Weldon
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (M.B.); (M.C.); (T.Q.M.); (A.V.W.); (K.H.); (K.Q.M.)
| | - Katherine Hedger
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (M.B.); (M.C.); (T.Q.M.); (A.V.W.); (K.H.); (K.Q.M.)
| | - Keely Q. Maynard
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (M.B.); (M.C.); (T.Q.M.); (A.V.W.); (K.H.); (K.Q.M.)
| | - Muhammad Ali Imron
- Department of Forest Resources Conservation, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia;
| | - K. A. I. Nekaris
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (M.B.); (M.C.); (T.Q.M.); (A.V.W.); (K.H.); (K.Q.M.)
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19
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Venom Use in Eulipotyphlans: An Evolutionary and Ecological Approach. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13030231. [PMID: 33810196 PMCID: PMC8004749 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13030231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Venomousness is a complex functional trait that has evolved independently many times in the animal kingdom, although it is rare among mammals. Intriguingly, most venomous mammal species belong to Eulipotyphla (solenodons, shrews). This fact may be linked to their high metabolic rate and a nearly continuous demand of nutritious food, and thus it relates the venom functions to facilitation of their efficient foraging. While mammalian venoms have been investigated using biochemical and molecular assays, studies of their ecological functions have been neglected for a long time. Therefore, we provide here an overview of what is currently known about eulipotyphlan venoms, followed by a discussion of how these venoms might have evolved under ecological pressures related to food acquisition, ecological interactions, and defense and protection. We delineate six mutually nonexclusive functions of venom (prey hunting, food hoarding, food digestion, reducing intra- and interspecific conflicts, avoidance of predation risk, weapons in intraspecific competition) and a number of different subfunctions for eulipotyphlans, among which some are so far only hypothetical while others have some empirical confirmation. The functions resulting from the need for food acquisition seem to be the most important for solenodons and especially for shrews. We also present several hypotheses explaining why, despite so many potentially beneficial functions, venomousness is rare even among eulipotyphlans. The tentativeness of many of the arguments presented in this review highlights our main conclusion, i.e., insights regarding the functions of eulipotyphlan venoms merit additional study.
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20
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Yamanashi Y, Nemoto K, Alejandro J. Social relationships among captive male pygmy slow lorises (Nycticebus pygmaeus): Is forming male same-sex pairs a feasible management strategy? Am J Primatol 2021; 83:e23233. [PMID: 33503325 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.23233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about the social behavior of pygmy slow lorises, in particular, the social relationships of same-sex individuals have rarely been investigated. The Slow Loris Conservation Center was built at the Japan Monkey Center to enhance the welfare of confiscated slow lorises, promote their conservation, improve public education, and perform scientific research on the species. In the course of improving housing conditions, several same-sex pairs of pygmy slow lorises were formed. We monitored their behaviors and fecal glucocorticoid metabolite (FGM) levels to understand whether male same-sex pairings could be a feasible management strategy. The subjects were 10 male and 6 female lorises for comparison, all of whom were over 5 years old. We successfully formed five pairs of male lorises after eight formation attempts. Male pairs initially showed some aggressive behaviors; however, the rate decreased approximately 10 days after introduction. All of the male pairs eventually exhibited extensive affiliative social behaviors, including allogrooming and social play, during the dark (active) phase, and sleep site sharing during the light (inactive) phase. The rate of sleep site sharing during the light phase was higher than expected, suggesting that the pairs preferred to stay near each other. There was no evidence of increased stress after a long period of male-male social housing. Female same-sex pairs and male-female pairs demonstrated a high level of affiliative behaviors right after the introduction. These results highlight the flexibility and high sociability of this species and indicate that such same-sex pairings are a feasible option for their social management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumi Yamanashi
- Center for Research and Education of Wildlife (CREW), Kyoto City Zoo, Kyoto, Japan.,Wildlife Research Center (WRC), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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21
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Ligabue-Braun R. Hello, kitty: could cat allergy be a form of intoxication? J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2020; 26:e20200051. [PMID: 33456448 PMCID: PMC7781471 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2020-0051] [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] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The relationship between slow loris (Nycticebus spp.) venom (BGE protein) and the major cat allergen (Fel d 1) from domestic cat (Felis catus) is known for about two decades. Along this time, evidence was accumulated regarding convergences between them, including their almost identical mode of action. Methods Large-scale database mining for Fel d 1 and BGE proteins in Felidae and Nycticebus spp., alignment, phylogeny proposition and molecular modelling, associated with directed literature review were assessed. Results Fel d 1 sequences for 28 non-domestic felids were identified, along with two additional loris BGE protein sequences. Dimer interfaces are less conserved among sequences, and the chain 1 shows more sequence similarity than chain 2. Post-translational modification similarities are highly probable. Conclusions Fel d 1 functions beyond allergy are discussed, considering the great conservation of felid orthologs of this protein. Reasons for toxicity being found only in domestic cats are proposed in the context of domestication. The combination of the literature review, genome-derived sequence data, and comparisons with the venomous primate slow loris may point to domestic cats as potentially poisonous mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Ligabue-Braun
- Department of Pharmacosciences, Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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22
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Drea CM. Design, delivery and perception of condition-dependent chemical signals in strepsirrhine primates: implications for human olfactory communication. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2020; 375:20190264. [PMID: 32306880 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2019.0264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The study of human chemical communication benefits from comparative perspectives that relate humans, conceptually and empirically, to other primates. All major primate groups rely on intraspecific chemosignals, but strepsirrhines present the greatest diversity and specialization, providing a rich framework for examining design, delivery and perception. Strepsirrhines actively scent mark, possess a functional vomeronasal organ, investigate scents via olfactory and gustatory means, and are exquisitely sensitive to chemically encoded messages. Variation in delivery, scent mixing and multimodality alters signal detection, longevity and intended audience. Based on an integrative, 19-species review, the main scent source used (excretory versus glandular) differentiates nocturnal from diurnal or cathemeral species, reflecting differing socioecological demands and evolutionary trajectories. Condition-dependent signals reflect immutable (species, sex, identity, genetic diversity, immunity and kinship) and transient (health, social status, reproductive state and breeding history) traits, consistent with socio-reproductive functions. Sex reversals in glandular elaboration, marking rates or chemical richness in female-dominant species implicate sexual selection of olfactory ornaments in both sexes. Whereas some compounds may be endogenously produced and modified (e.g. via hormones), microbial analyses of different odorants support the fermentation hypothesis of bacterial contribution. The intimate contexts of information transfer and varied functions provide important parallels applicable to olfactory communication in humans. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Olfactory communication in humans'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine M Drea
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708-0383, USA.,Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708-0383, USA
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23
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Scheib H, Nekaris KAI, Rode-Margono J, Ragnarsson L, Baumann K, Dobson JS, Wirdateti W, Nouwens A, Nijman V, Martelli P, Ma R, Lewis RJ, Kwok HF, Fry BG. The Toxicological Intersection between Allergen and Toxin: A Structural Comparison of the Cat Dander Allergenic Protein Fel d1 and the Slow Loris Brachial Gland Secretion Protein. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12020086. [PMID: 32012831 PMCID: PMC7076782 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12020086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Slow lorises are enigmatic animal that represent the only venomous primate lineage. Their defensive secretions have received little attention. In this study we determined the full length sequence of the protein secreted by their unique brachial glands. The full length sequences displayed homology to the main allergenic protein present in cat dander. We thus compared the molecular features of the slow loris brachial gland protein and the cat dander allergen protein, showing remarkable similarities between them. Thus we postulate that allergenic proteins play a role in the slow loris defensive arsenal. These results shed light on these neglected, novel animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holger Scheib
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia; (H.S.); (K.B.); (J.S.D.)
| | - K. Anne-Isola Nekaris
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (K.A.-I.N.); (J.R.-M.); (V.N.)
- Centre for Functional Genomics, Department of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
| | - Johanna Rode-Margono
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (K.A.-I.N.); (J.R.-M.); (V.N.)
- The North of England Zoological Society / Chester Zoo, Chester CH2 1LH, UK
| | - Lotten Ragnarsson
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia QLD 4072, Australia; (L.R.)
| | - Kate Baumann
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia; (H.S.); (K.B.); (J.S.D.)
| | - James S. Dobson
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia; (H.S.); (K.B.); (J.S.D.)
| | | | - Amanda Nouwens
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia;
| | - Vincent Nijman
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Department of Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK; (K.A.-I.N.); (J.R.-M.); (V.N.)
- Centre for Functional Genomics, Department of Health and Life Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford OX3 0BP, UK
| | | | - Rui Ma
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macau SAR;
| | - Richard J. Lewis
- Institute for Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia QLD 4072, Australia; (L.R.)
| | - Hang Fai Kwok
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida de Universidade, Taipa, Macau SAR;
- Correspondence: (H.F.K.); (B.G.F.)
| | - Bryan Grieg Fry
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia; (H.S.); (K.B.); (J.S.D.)
- Correspondence: (H.F.K.); (B.G.F.)
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24
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Schendel V, Rash LD, Jenner RA, Undheim EAB. The Diversity of Venom: The Importance of Behavior and Venom System Morphology in Understanding Its Ecology and Evolution. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E666. [PMID: 31739590 PMCID: PMC6891279 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11110666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Venoms are one of the most convergent of animal traits known, and encompass a much greater taxonomic and functional diversity than is commonly appreciated. This knowledge gap limits the potential of venom as a model trait in evolutionary biology. Here, we summarize the taxonomic and functional diversity of animal venoms and relate this to what is known about venom system morphology, venom modulation, and venom pharmacology, with the aim of drawing attention to the importance of these largely neglected aspects of venom research. We find that animals have evolved venoms at least 101 independent times and that venoms play at least 11 distinct ecological roles in addition to predation, defense, and feeding. Comparisons of different venom systems suggest that morphology strongly influences how venoms achieve these functions, and hence is an important consideration for understanding the molecular evolution of venoms and their toxins. Our findings also highlight the need for more holistic studies of venom systems and the toxins they contain. Greater knowledge of behavior, morphology, and ecologically relevant toxin pharmacology will improve our understanding of the evolution of venoms and their toxins, and likely facilitate exploration of their potential as sources of molecular tools and therapeutic and agrochemical lead compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Schendel
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Lachlan D. Rash
- School of Biomedical Sciences, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Ronald A. Jenner
- Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 5BD, UK;
| | - Eivind A. B. Undheim
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia;
- Centre for Biodiversity Dynamics, Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1066 Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway
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25
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Bornbusch SL, Greene LK, McKenney EA, Volkoff SJ, Midani FS, Joseph G, Gerhard WA, Iloghalu U, Granek J, Gunsch CK. A comparative study of gut microbiomes in captive nocturnal strepsirrhines. Am J Primatol 2019; 81:e22986. [PMID: 31081142 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.22986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Feeding strategy and diet are increasingly recognized for their roles in governing primate gut microbiome (GMB) composition. Whereas feeding strategy reflects evolutionary adaptations to a host's environment, diet is a more proximate measure of food intake. Host phylogeny, which is intertwined with feeding strategy, is an additional, and often confounding factor that shapes GMBs across host lineages. Nocturnal strepsirrhines are an intriguing and underutilized group in which to examine the links between these three factors and GMB composition. Here, we compare GMB composition in four species of captive, nocturnal strepsirrhines with varying feeding strategies and phylogenetic relationships, but nearly identical diets. We use 16S rRNA sequences to determine gut bacterial composition. Despite similar husbandry conditions, including diet, we find that GMB composition varies significantly across host species and is linked to host feeding strategy and phylogeny. The GMBs of the omnivorous and the frugivorous species were significantly more diverse than were those of the insectivorous and exudativorous species. Across all hosts, GMBs were enriched for bacterial taxa associated with the macronutrient resources linked to the host's respective feeding strategy. Ultimately, the reported variation in microbiome composition suggests that the impacts of captivity and concurrent diet do not overshadow patterns of feeding strategy and phylogeny. As our understanding of primate GMBs progresses, populations of captive primates can provide insight into the evolution of host-microbe relationships, as well as inform future captive management protocols that enhance primate health and conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally L Bornbusch
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Lydia K Greene
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.,University Program in Ecology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Erin A McKenney
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh, North Carolina
| | - Savannah J Volkoff
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Firas S Midani
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Gail Joseph
- Department of Energy and Environmental Systems, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, North Carolina
| | - William A Gerhard
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Uchenna Iloghalu
- Department of Applied Science and Technology, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Greensboro, North Carolina
| | - Joshua Granek
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Claudia K Gunsch
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
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26
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Nekaris KAI, Weldon A, Imron MA, Maynard KQ, Nijman V, Poindexter SA, Morcatty TQ. Venom in Furs: Facial Masks as Aposematic Signals in a Venomous Mammal. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E93. [PMID: 30764557 PMCID: PMC6409604 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11020093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The function of colouration in animals includes concealment, communication and signaling, such as the use of aposematism as a warning signal. Aposematism is unusual in mammals, and exceptions help us to understand its ecology and evolution. The Javan slow loris is a highly territorial venomous mammal that has a distinctive facial mask and monochromatic vision. To help understand if they use aposematism to advertise their venom to conspecifics or predators with different visual systems, we studied a population in Java, Indonesia. Using ImageJ, we selected colours from the facial masks of 58 individuals, converted RBG colours into monochromatic, dichromatic and trichromatic modes, and created a contrast index. During 290 captures, we recorded venom secretion and aggressiveness. Using Non-metric Multidimensional Scaling and generalised additive models for location, scale and shape, we found that young slow lorises differ significantly from adults, being both more contrasting and more aggressive, with aggressive animals showing fewer wounds. We suggest aposematic facial masks serve multiple purposes in slow lorises based on age. Change in colouration through development may play a role in intraspecific competition, and advertise toxicity or aggressiveness to competitors and/or predators in juveniles. Aposematic signals combined with intraspecific competition may provide clues to new venomous taxa among mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Anne-Isola Nekaris
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK.
| | - Ariana Weldon
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK.
| | - Muhammad Ali Imron
- Faculty of Forestry, Universitas Gadjah Madah, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia.
| | - Keely Q Maynard
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK.
| | - Vincent Nijman
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK.
| | - Stephanie A Poindexter
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK.
- Department of Anthropology, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
| | - Thais Queiroz Morcatty
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK.
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27
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Rico-Guevara A, Hurme KJ. Intrasexually selected weapons. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2019; 94:60-101. [PMID: 29924496 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
We propose a practical concept that distinguishes the particular kind of weaponry that has evolved to be used in combat between individuals of the same species and sex, which we term intrasexually selected weapons (ISWs). We present a treatise of ISWs in nature, aiming to understand their distinction and evolution from other secondary sex traits, including from 'sexually selected weapons', and from sexually dimorphic and monomorphic weaponry. We focus on the subset of secondary sex traits that are the result of same-sex combat, defined here as ISWs, provide not previously reported evolutionary patterns, and offer hypotheses to answer questions such as: why have only some species evolved weapons to fight for the opposite sex or breeding resources? We examined traits that seem to have evolved as ISWs in the entire animal phylogeny, restricting the classification of ISW to traits that are only present or enlarged in adults of one of the sexes, and are used as weapons during intrasexual fights. Because of the absence of behavioural data and, in many cases, lack of sexually discriminated series from juveniles to adults, we exclude the fossil record from this review. We merge morphological, ontogenetic, and behavioural information, and for the first time thoroughly review the tree of life to identify separate evolution of ISWs. We found that ISWs are only found in bilateral animals, appearing independently in nematodes, various groups of arthropods, and vertebrates. Our review sets a reference point to explore other taxa that we identify with potential ISWs for which behavioural or morphological studies are warranted. We establish that most ISWs come in pairs, are located in or near the head, are endo- or exoskeletal modifications, are overdeveloped structures compared with those found in females, are modified feeding structures and/or locomotor appendages, are most common in terrestrial taxa, are frequently used to guard females, territories, or both, and are also used in signalling displays to deter rivals and/or attract females. We also found that most taxa lack ISWs, that females of only a few species possess better-developed weapons than males, that the cases of independent evolution of ISWs are not evenly distributed across the phylogeny, and that animals possessing the most developed ISWs have non-hunting habits (e.g. herbivores) or are faunivores that prey on very small prey relative to their body size (e.g. insectivores). Bringing together perspectives from studies on a variety of taxa, we conceptualize that there are five ways in which a sexually dimorphic trait, apart from the primary sex traits, can be fixed: sexual selection, fecundity selection, parental role division, differential niche occupation between the sexes, and interference competition. We discuss these trends and the factors involved in the evolution of intrasexually selected weaponry in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Rico-Guevara
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, 3040 Valley Life Sciences Building, Berkeley, CA, 94720, U.S.A.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Connecticut, 75 N. Eagleville Rd, Unit 3043, Storrs, CT, 06269, U.S.A.,Instituto de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Código Postal 11001, Bogotá DC, Colombia
| | - Kristiina J Hurme
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, 3040 Valley Life Sciences Building, Berkeley, CA, 94720, U.S.A.,Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Connecticut, 75 N. Eagleville Rd, Unit 3043, Storrs, CT, 06269, U.S.A
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28
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Luhrs AM, Svensson MS, Nekaris KAI. Comparative Ecology and Behaviour of Eastern Potto Perodicticus ibeanus and Central Potto P. Edwardsi in Angola, Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda and Uganda. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.2982/028.107.0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Averee M. Luhrs
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford Brookes University Headington, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK
| | - Magdalena S. Svensson
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford Brookes University Headington, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK
| | - K. Anne-Isola Nekaris
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford Brookes University Headington, Oxford, OX3 0BP, UK
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29
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Simpson GM, Fuller G, Lukas KE, Kuhar CW, Fitch-Snyder H, Taylor J, Dennis PM. Sources of morbidity in lorises and pottos in North American zoos: A retrospective review, 1980-2010. Zoo Biol 2018; 37:245-257. [PMID: 29971828 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Delineating patterns of morbidity can reveal management practices in need of reassessment to improve individual welfare, as well as population health and sustainability. We reviewed medical records from 38 North American zoological institutions for 276 slender lorises, slow lorises, and pottos born between January 1, 1980 and December 31, 2010. This sample included animals identified as 116 Nycticebus pygmaeus, 84 N. coucang, 48 Loris tardigradus tardigradus, 6 L.t. nordicus (now classified as L. lydekkerianus nordicus), and 22 Perodicticus potto. Taxonomy for lorises and pottos is developing, and two of these populations (N. coucang and P. potto) likely included hybrids and/or multiple species. Our focus was to examine trends based on species and age. Across all species, whole body disease events, abnormalities of bloodwork, and dental diseases were the most common sources of morbidity. Other major sources of morbidity varied by species and included trauma, respiratory disease, and ocular disease. A recent upsurge in research has informed feeding practices for slow lorises living in human care, and a similar, evidence-based approach is needed to improve diets for other species. Given the prevalence of trauma in this sample, social needs and reproductive management practices are also important areas for further investigation. Species-level health trends reveal risk factors for individual welfare that can guide husbandry practices in zoos, as well as in sanctuaries caring for the influx of lorises and pottos rescued from the growing wildlife trade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail M Simpson
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Grace Fuller
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Kristen E Lukas
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Christopher W Kuhar
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Helena Fitch-Snyder
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California at Davis, Davis, California
| | - Jessica Taylor
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Patricia M Dennis
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland, Ohio
- Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
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30
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Poindexter SA, Reinhardt KD, Nijman V, Nekaris KAI. Slow lorises (Nycticebus spp.) display evidence of handedness in the wild and in captivity. Laterality 2018; 23:705-721. [PMID: 29607706 DOI: 10.1080/1357650x.2018.1457046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that strepsirrhines (lemurs, lorises, and galagos) retain the more primitive left-hand preference, whilst monkeys and apes more regularly display a right-hand preference at the individual-level. We looked to address questions of laterality in the slow loris (Nycticebus spp.) using spontaneous observations of 7 wild individuals, unimanual tests in 6 captive individuals, and photos of 42 individuals in a bilateral posture assessing handedness at the individual- and group-level. During the unimanual reach task, we found at the individual-level, only 4 slow lorises showed a hand use bias (R: 3, L: 1), Handedness index (HI) ranged from -0.57 to 1.00. In the wild unimanual grasp task, we found at the individual-level two individual showed a right-hand bias, the HI ranged from -0.19 to 0.70. The bilateral venom pose showed a trend toward a right-hand dominant grip in those photographed in captivity, but an ambiguous difference in wild individuals. There are many environmental constraints in captivity that wild animals do not face, thus data collected in wild settings are more representative of their natural state. The presence of right-handedness in these species suggests that there is a need to re-evaluate the evolution of handedness in primates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Poindexter
- a Department of Social Sciences , Oxford Brookes University , Oxford , UK.,b Nocturnal Primate Research Group , Oxford , UK.,c The Little Fireface Project , West Java , Indonesia
| | - Kathleen D Reinhardt
- a Department of Social Sciences , Oxford Brookes University , Oxford , UK.,b Nocturnal Primate Research Group , Oxford , UK.,c The Little Fireface Project , West Java , Indonesia
| | - Vincent Nijman
- a Department of Social Sciences , Oxford Brookes University , Oxford , UK.,b Nocturnal Primate Research Group , Oxford , UK
| | - K A I Nekaris
- a Department of Social Sciences , Oxford Brookes University , Oxford , UK.,b Nocturnal Primate Research Group , Oxford , UK.,c The Little Fireface Project , West Java , Indonesia
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31
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Gardiner M, Weldon A, Poindexter SA, Gibson N, Nekaris KAI. Survey of practitioners handling slow lorises (Primates: Nycticebus): an assessment of the harmful effects of slow loris bites. JOURNAL OF VENOM RESEARCH 2018; 9:1-7. [PMID: 30090322 PMCID: PMC6055083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 02/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Slow lorises (Nycticebus spp.) are one of six venomous mammals, and the only known venomous primate. In the wild envenomation occurs mainly during conspecific competition for mates and territory, but may also be used as an application against parasites or for predator defense. Envenomation in humans is documented, with the most extreme accounts detailing near-fatal anaphylactic shock. From September 2016 - August 2017, we received questionnaire responses from 80 wild animal practitioners working with Nycticebus spp. in zoos, rescue centres and in the wild. We identified 54 practitioners who had experience of being bitten or were otherwise affected by slow loris venom, and an additional 26 incomplete entries. No fatalities were reported. Fifteen respondents noted that medical intervention was required, 12 respondents indicated no reaction to being bitten (9 of these indicated they were wearing gloves). Symptoms for those affected included: anaphylactic shock, paraesthesia, haematuria, dyspnoea, extreme pain, infection and general malaise. Impact of slow loris bites ranged from instantaneous to long-persisting complications, and healing time ranged from 1 day to >8 months. Extremities, including hands and arms, were mostly affected from the bites. Six of nine species of slow loris were reported to bite, with N. pygmaeus being the most common in our sample. We make suggestions regarding the use of these highly threatened yet dangerous primates as unsuitable tourist photo props and zoo animal ambassadors. We discuss the medical complications experienced in relation to protein sensitisation, and bacterial pathogenesis. We recommend future work to ascertain the protein content of slow loris venom to aid in enabling mitigation of risks posed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Gardiner
- 1Oxford Brookes University, Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford, UK,3The Little Fireface Project, Cisurupan, Cipaganti, Indonesia
| | - Ariana Weldon
- 1Oxford Brookes University, Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford, UK,3The Little Fireface Project, Cisurupan, Cipaganti, Indonesia
| | - Stephanie A Poindexter
- 1Oxford Brookes University, Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford, UK,3The Little Fireface Project, Cisurupan, Cipaganti, Indonesia
| | | | - K Anna I Nekaris
- 1Oxford Brookes University, Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford, UK,3The Little Fireface Project, Cisurupan, Cipaganti, Indonesia,*Correspondence to: Anna Nekaris, ; Tel:+44 (0)1865 483767
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Rodriguez-Valle M, Moolhuijzen P, Barrero RA, Ong CT, Busch G, Karbanowicz T, Booth M, Clark R, Koehbach J, Ijaz H, Broady K, Agnew K, Knowles AG, Bellgard MI, Tabor AE. Transcriptome and toxin family analysis of the paralysis tick, Ixodes holocyclus. Int J Parasitol 2018; 48:71-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2017.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2017] [Revised: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Affiliation(s)
| | - OF Wong
- North Lantau Hospital, Accident and Emergency Department, 8 Chung Yan Road, Lantau, Hong Kong
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Penteriani V, Delgado MDM. Living in the dark does not mean a blind life: bird and mammal visual communication in dim light. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2017; 372:rstb.2016.0064. [PMID: 28193809 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2016.0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
For many years, it was believed that bird and mammal communication 'in the dark of the night' relied exclusively on vocal and chemical signalling. However, in recent decades, several case studies have conveyed the idea that the nocturnal world is rich in visual information. Clearly, a visual signal needs a source of light to work, but diurnal light (twilight included, i.e. any light directly dependent on the sun) is not the only source of luminosity on this planet. Actually, moonlight represents a powerful source of illumination that cannot be neglected from the perspective of visual communication. White patches of feathers and fur on a dark background have the potential to be used to communicate with conspecifics and heterospecifics in dim light across different contexts and for a variety of reasons. Here: (i) we review current knowledge on visual signalling in crepuscular and nocturnal birds and mammals; and (ii) we also present some possible cases of birds and mammals that, due to the characteristics of their feather and fur coloration pattern, might use visual signals in dim light. Visual signalling in nocturnal animals is still an emerging field and, to date, it has received less attention than many other means of communication, including visual communication under daylight. For this reason, many questions remain unanswered and, sometimes, even unasked.This article is part of the themed issue 'Vision in dim light'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Penteriani
- Department of Conservation Biology, Estación Biológica de Doñana, C.S.I.C., c/Américo Vespucio s/n, 41092 Seville, Spain .,Research Unit of Biodiversity (UMIB, UO-CSIC-PA), Oviedo University-Campus Mieres, 33600 Mieres, Spain
| | - María Del Mar Delgado
- Research Unit of Biodiversity (UMIB, UO-CSIC-PA), Oviedo University-Campus Mieres, 33600 Mieres, Spain
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Fuller G, Eggen WF, Wirdateti W, Nekaris KAI. Welfare impacts of the illegal wildlife trade in a cohort of confiscated greater slow lorises, Nycticebus coucang. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2017; 21:224-238. [PMID: 29185811 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2017.1393338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Illegal harvesting and trade are major forces behind population declines of wild slow lorises (genus Nycticebus). The impacts of the wildlife trade on individual slow lorises have not been as well described. In this article, we describe quantitatively the consequences of the wildlife trade for 77 greater slow lorises, N. coucang, who were confiscated en masse and brought to Cikananga Wildlife Center in Indonesia. Medical records indicated that in total, 28.6% of the slow lorises died within the first 6 months, mostly due to traumatic injury, and all the infants died. The greatest sources of morbidity were external wounds (33.1% of 166 total medical events) and dental problems (19.3%). Of the surviving individuals, 25.4% displayed abnormal behavior. Behavioral observations indicated that healthy adults (n = 3) spent 48.2% of their active period performing stereotypies. These data illustrate the physical and behavioral impacts of the illegal wildlife trade on the welfare of slow lorises. We suggest that sharing these individual stories may help generate empathy and educate the public about the impacts of the exotic companion-animal (pet) trade on nonhuman animal welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Fuller
- a Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences and Law, Oxford Brookes University , Oxford , United Kingdom
| | - Wilhelmina Frederica Eggen
- b Cikananga Wildlife Center (Pusat Penyelamatan Satwa Cikananga), Kecamatan Nyalindung Kabupaten Sukabumi , Provinsi Jawa Barat , Indonesia.,c Wanicare Foundation , Balkbrug , The Netherlands
| | - Wirdateti Wirdateti
- d Division Zoology , Research Center for Biology, Lembaga Ilmu Pengetahuan Indonesia (LIPI), Gedung Widyasatwaloka , Jakarta-Bogor , Indonesia
| | - K A I Nekaris
- a Nocturnal Primate Research Group, School of Social Sciences and Law, Oxford Brookes University , Oxford , United Kingdom
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Miard P, Nekaris KAI, Ramlee H. Hiding in the dark: Local ecological knowledge about slow loris in Sarawak sheds light on relationships between human populations and wild animals. HUMAN ECOLOGY: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY JOURNAL 2017; 45:823-831. [PMID: 29213178 PMCID: PMC5698378 DOI: 10.1007/s10745-017-9954-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Local ecological knowledge (LEK) increases understanding of certain species and the threats they face, especially little-studied taxa for which data on distribution and conservation are often lacking. We conducted 111 semi-structured interviews in Sarawak, Malaysia, to collect local knowledge about the behavior and distribution of the Philippine slow loris (Nycticebus menagensis) from two ethnic groups, the Iban and the Penan. Our study revealed that male Penan respondents, generally hunters, who frequently go into the forest were better at identifying animals from pictures. Overall, the Penan have a more detailed knowledge of slow loris behaviors, habitat, and distribution than the Iban. The two ethnic groups have different attitudes towards slow loris as the Penan hunt, eat, or keep them as pets while the Iban consider them sacred and signifiers of good luck. We advocate the use of LEK for providing complementary information to scientific methods in the study of cryptic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscillia Miard
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - K. A. I. Nekaris
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Hatta Ramlee
- Nature Conservation & Constitution Division (NCCD), Forest Department Sarawak, Kuching, Malaysia
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Evaluation of the physiological activity of venom from the Eurasian water shrew Neomys fodiens. Front Zool 2017; 14:46. [PMID: 29026428 PMCID: PMC5622582 DOI: 10.1186/s12983-017-0230-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Animal toxins can have medical and therapeutic applications. Principally, toxins produced by insects, arachnids, snakes and frogs have been characterized. Venomous mammals are rare, and their venoms have not been comprehensively investigated. Among shrews, only the venom of Blarina brevicauda has been analysed so far, and blarina toxin has been proven to be its main toxic component. It is assumed that Neomys fodiens employs its venom to hunt larger prey. However, the toxic profile, properties and mode of action of its venom are largely unknown. Therefore, we analysed the cardio-, myo- and neurotropic properties of N. fodiens venom and saliva of non-venomous Sorex araneus (control tests) in vitro in physiological bioassays carried out on two model organisms: beetles and frogs. For the first time, we fractionated N. fodiens venom and S. araneus saliva by performing chromatographic separation. Next, the properties of selected compounds were analysed in cardiotropic bioassays in the Tenebrio molitor heart. Results The venom of N. fodiens caused a high decrease in the conduction velocity of the frog sciatic nerve, as well as a significant decrease in the force of frog calf muscle contraction. We also recorded a significant decrease in the frog heart contractile activity. Most of the selected compounds from N. fodiens venom displayed a positive chronotropic effect on the beetle heart. However, one fraction caused a strong decrease in the T. molitor heart contractile activity coupled with a reversible cardiac arrest. We did not observe any responses of the insect heart and frog organs to the saliva of S. araneus. Preliminary mass spectrometry analysis revealed that calmodulin-like protein, thymosin β-10, hyaluronidase, lysozyme C and phospholipase A2 are present in the venom of N. fodiens, whereas thymosin β4, lysozyme C and β-defensin are present in S. araneus saliva. Conclusion Our results showed that N. fodiens venom has stronger paralytic properties and lower cardioinhibitory activity. Therefore, it is highly probable that N. fodiens might use its venom as a prey immobilizing agent. We also confirmed that S. araneus is not a venomous mammal because its saliva did not exhibit any toxic effects. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12983-017-0230-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Cabana F, Dierenfeld E, Wirdateti W, Donati G, Nekaris K. The seasonal feeding ecology of the javan slow loris (nycticebus javanicus). AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2017; 162:768-781. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Francis Cabana
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford Brookes University; Oxford OX3 0BP UK
- Wildlife Reserves Singapore; Singapore 729826 Singapore
| | | | | | - Giuseppe Donati
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford Brookes University; Oxford OX3 0BP UK
| | - K.A.I. Nekaris
- Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford Brookes University; Oxford OX3 0BP UK
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Arbuckle K. Evolutionary Context of Venom in Animals. EVOLUTION OF VENOMOUS ANIMALS AND THEIR TOXINS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-6458-3_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Harris RJ, Arbuckle K. Tempo and Mode of the Evolution of Venom and Poison in Tetrapods. Toxins (Basel) 2016; 8:toxins8070193. [PMID: 27348001 PMCID: PMC4963826 DOI: 10.3390/toxins8070193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxic weaponry in the form of venom and poison has evolved in most groups of animals, including all four major lineages of tetrapods. Moreover, the evolution of such traits has been linked to several key aspects of the biology of toxic animals including life-history and diversification. Despite this, attempts to investigate the macroevolutionary patterns underlying such weaponry are lacking. In this study we analyse patterns of venom and poison evolution across reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds using a suite of phylogenetic comparative methods. We find that each major lineage has a characteristic pattern of trait evolution, but mammals and reptiles evolve under a surprisingly similar regime, whilst that of amphibians appears to be particularly distinct and highly contrasting compared to other groups. Our results also suggest that the mechanism of toxin acquisition may be an important distinction in such evolutionary patterns; the evolution of biosynthesis is far less dynamic than that of sequestration of toxins from the diet. Finally, contrary to the situation in amphibians, other tetrapod groups show an association between the evolution of toxic weaponry and higher diversification rates. Taken together, our study provides the first broad-scale analysis of macroevolutionary patterns of venom and poison throughout tetrapods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin Arbuckle
- Department of Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour, University of Liverpool, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK.
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Nekaris KAI. The Little Fireface Project: Community Conservation of Asia’s Slow Lorises via Ecology, Education, and Empowerment. ETHNOPRIMATOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-30469-4_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Zhang Y. Why do we study animal toxins? DONG WU XUE YAN JIU = ZOOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2015; 36:183-222. [PMID: 26228472 PMCID: PMC4790257 DOI: 10.13918/j.issn.2095-8137.2015.4.183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Venom (toxins) is an important trait evolved along the evolutionary tree of animals. Our knowledges on venoms, such as their origins and loss, the biological relevance and the coevolutionary patterns with other organisms are greatly helpful in understanding many fundamental biological questions, i.e., the environmental adaptation and survival competition, the evolution shaped development and balance of venoms, and the sophisticated correlations among venom, immunity, body power, intelligence, their genetic basis, inherent association, as well as the cost-benefit and trade-offs of biological economy. Lethal animal envenomation can be found worldwide. However, from foe to friend, toxin studies have led lots of important discoveries and exciting avenues in deciphering and fighting human diseases, including the works awarded the Nobel Prize and lots of key clinic therapeutics. According to our survey, so far, only less than 0.1% of the toxins of the venomous animals in China have been explored. We emphasize on the similarities shared by venom and immune systems, as well as the studies of toxin knowledge-based physiological toxin-like proteins/peptides (TLPs). We propose the natural pairing hypothesis. Evolution links toxins with humans. Our mission is to find out the right natural pairings and interactions of our body elements with toxins, and with endogenous toxin-like molecules. Although, in nature, toxins may endanger human lives, but from a philosophical point of view, knowing them well is an effective way to better understand ourselves. So, this is why we study toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of The Chinese Academy of Sciences & Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming Yunnan 650223,
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Cabinet of Curiosities: Venom Systems and Their Ecological Function in Mammals, with a Focus on Primates. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 7:2639-58. [PMID: 26193318 PMCID: PMC4516934 DOI: 10.3390/toxins7072639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Revised: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Venom delivery systems (VDS) are common in the animal kingdom, but rare amongst mammals. New definitions of venom allow us to reconsider its diversity amongst mammals by reviewing the VDS of Chiroptera, Eulipotyphla, Monotremata, and Primates. All orders use modified anterior dentition as the venom delivery apparatus, except Monotremata, which possesses a crural system. The venom gland in most taxa is a modified submaxillary salivary gland. In Primates, the saliva is activated when combined with brachial gland exudate. In Monotremata, the crural spur contains the venom duct. Venom functions include feeding, intraspecific competition, anti-predator defense and parasite defense. Including mammals in discussion of venom evolution could prove vital in our understanding protein functioning in mammals and provide a new avenue for biomedical and therapeutic applications and drug discovery.
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Nekaris KAI, Starr CR. OVERVIEW: Conservation and ecology of the neglected slow loris: priorities and prospects. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2015. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Macrander J, Brugler MR, Daly M. A RNA-seq approach to identify putative toxins from acrorhagi in aggressive and non-aggressive Anthopleura elegantissima polyps. BMC Genomics 2015; 16:221. [PMID: 25886045 PMCID: PMC4397815 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-015-1417-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 02/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of venom in intraspecific aggression is uncommon and venom-transmitting structures specifically used for intraspecific competition are found in few lineages of venomous taxa. Next-generation transcriptome sequencing allows robust characterization of venom diversity and exploration of functionally unique tissues. Using a tissue-specific RNA-seq approach, we investigate the venom composition and gene ontology diversity of acrorhagi, specialized structures used in intraspecific competition, in aggressive and non-aggressive polyps of the aggregating sea anemone Anthopleura elegantissima (Cnidaria: Anthozoa: Hexacorallia: Actiniaria: Actiniidae). RESULTS Collectively, we generated approximately 450,000 transcripts from acrorhagi of aggressive and non-aggressive polyps. For both transcriptomes we identified 65 candidate sea anemone toxin genes, representing phospholipase A2s, cytolysins, neurotoxins, and acrorhagins. When compared to previously characterized sea anemone toxin assemblages, each transcriptome revealed greater within-species sequence divergence across all toxin types. The transcriptome of the aggressive polyp had a higher abundance of type II voltage gated potassium channel toxins/Kunitz-type protease inhibitors and type II acrorhagins. Using toxin-like proteins from other venomous taxa, we also identified 612 candidate toxin-like transcripts with signaling regions, potentially unidentified secretory toxin-like proteins. Among these, metallopeptidases and cysteine rich (CRISP) candidate transcripts were in high abundance. Furthermore, our gene ontology analyses identified a high prevalence of genes associated with "blood coagulation" and "positive regulation of apoptosis", as well as "nucleoside: sodium symporter activity" and "ion channel binding". The resulting assemblage of expressed genes may represent synergistic proteins associated with toxins or proteins related to the morphology and behavior exhibited by the aggressive polyp. CONCLUSION We implement a multifaceted approach to investigate the assemblage of expressed genes specifically within acrorhagi, specialized structures used only for intraspecific competition. By combining differential expression, phylogenetic, and gene ontology analyses, we identify several candidate toxins and other potentially important proteins in acrorhagi of A. elegantissima. Although not all of the toxins identified are used in intraspecific competition, our analysis highlights some candidates that may play a vital role in intraspecific competition. Our findings provide a framework for further investigation into components of venom used exclusively for intraspecific competition in acrorhagi-bearing sea anemones and potentially other venomous animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Macrander
- The Ohio State University, Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, 318 W. 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210-1293, USA.
| | - Mercer R Brugler
- Sackler Institute for Comparative Genomics, Division of Invertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, New York, NY, 10024, USA. .,Biological Sciences Department, NYC College of Technology (CUNY), 300 Jay Street, Brooklyn, NY, 11201, USA.
| | - Marymegan Daly
- The Ohio State University, Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, 318 W. 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210-1293, USA.
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Rode-Margono EJ, Rademaker M, Wirdateti, Strijkstra A, Nekaris K. Noxious arthropods as potential prey of the venomous Javan slow loris (Nycticebus javanicus) in a West Javan volcanic agricultural system. J NAT HIST 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/00222933.2015.1006282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Combinations of long peptide sequence blocks can be used to describe toxin diversification in venomous animals. Toxicon 2015; 95:84-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Revised: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Gray AE, Wirdateti, Nekaris KAI. Trialling exudate-based enrichment efforts to improve the welfare of rescued slow lorises Nycticebus spp. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2015. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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von Reumont BM, Campbell LI, Jenner RA. Quo vadis venomics? A roadmap to neglected venomous invertebrates. Toxins (Basel) 2014; 6:3488-551. [PMID: 25533518 PMCID: PMC4280546 DOI: 10.3390/toxins6123488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2014] [Revised: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Venomics research is being revolutionized by the increased use of sensitive -omics techniques to identify venom toxins and their transcripts in both well studied and neglected venomous taxa. The study of neglected venomous taxa is necessary both for understanding the full diversity of venom systems that have evolved in the animal kingdom, and to robustly answer fundamental questions about the biology and evolution of venoms without the distorting effect that can result from the current bias introduced by some heavily studied taxa. In this review we draw the outlines of a roadmap into the diversity of poorly studied and understood venomous and putatively venomous invertebrates, which together represent tens of thousands of unique venoms. The main groups we discuss are crustaceans, flies, centipedes, non-spider and non-scorpion arachnids, annelids, molluscs, platyhelminths, nemerteans, and echinoderms. We review what is known about the morphology of the venom systems in these groups, the composition of their venoms, and the bioactivities of the venoms to provide researchers with an entry into a large and scattered literature. We conclude with a short discussion of some important methodological aspects that have come to light with the recent use of new -omics techniques in the study of venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lahcen I Campbell
- Department of Life Sciences, the Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD London, UK.
| | - Ronald A Jenner
- Department of Life Sciences, the Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, SW7 5BD London, UK.
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Madani G, Nekaris KAI. Anaphylactic shock following the bite of a wild Kayan slow loris (Nycticebus kayan): implications for slow loris conservation. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2014; 20:43. [PMID: 25309586 PMCID: PMC4192448 DOI: 10.1186/1678-9199-20-43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Asian slow lorises (Nycticebus spp.) are one of few known venomous mammals, yet until now only one published case report has documented the impact of their venomous bite on humans. We describe the reaction of a patient to the bite of a subadult Nycticebus kayan, which occurred in the Mulu District of Sarawak in 2012. Findings Within minutes of the bite, the patient experienced paraesthesia in the right side of the jaw, ear and right foot. By 40 minutes, swelling of the face was pronounced. The patient was admitted to Mulu National Park Health Clinic/Klinik Kesihatan Taman Mulu Tarikh, at which time he was experiencing: swollen mouth, chest pain, mild abdominal pain, nausea, numbness of the lips and mouth, shortness of breath, weakness, agitation and the sensation of pressure in the ears due to swelling. The blood pressure was 110/76, the heart ratio was 116 and oxygen saturation was 96%. The patient was treated intramuscularly with adrenaline (0.5 mL), followed by intravenous injection of hydrocortisone (400 mg) and then intravenous fluid therapy of normal saline (500 mg). By 8 h10 the next day, the patient’s condition had significantly improved with no nausea, and with blood pressure and pulse rate stable. Conclusions A handful of anecdotes further support the real danger that slow loris bites pose to humans. As the illegal pet trade is a major factor in the decline of these threatened species, we hope that by reporting on the danger of handling these animals it may help to reduce their desirability as a pet.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Madani
- Little Fireface Project, Cisurupan, Cipaganti, Garut, Java Indonesia
| | - K Anne-Isola Nekaris
- Little Fireface Project, Cisurupan, Cipaganti, Garut, Java Indonesia ; Nocturnal Primate Research Group, Oxford Brookes University, Headington Campus, Gipsy Lane, Oxford, OX3 0BP UK
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