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Win MN, Yee KT, Htwe KM, Thin EE, Win SM, Kyaw AM, Aye MM, Khaing KK, Thwe WM, Htwe KK, Zaw A. Biochemical and biological characterization of the venoms of Naja kaouthia and Naja mandalayensis from Myanmar and neutralization effects of BPI cobra antivenom. Toxicon X 2024; 22:100196. [PMID: 38665175 PMCID: PMC11043865 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2024.100196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Snakebite is a neglected public health issue, with many scientific and medical issues to be solved. Cobras are among the most common venomous snakes in Myanmar and are responsible for a considerable number of severe snakebite envenoming. There are three species of cobra (Naja kaouthia, Naja mandalayensis and Ophiophagus hannah) in Myanmar. The study aims to characterize the N. kaouthia and N. mandalayensis venoms and to investigate the efficacy of anti-cobra antivenom (BPI) against the two venoms. Protein components and fibrinogenolytic activity were determined by SDS-PAGE. Enzymatic activities for PLA2, protease and acetylcholinesterase were determined by spectrophotometric method. Anticoagulant activity was determined by recalcification time of citrated human plasma. Myotoxicity, necrotizing activity, median lethal dose (LD50) and median effective dose (ED50) were determined by WHO recommended methods. The SDS-PAGE displayed the proteins and enzymes containing in two venoms were different. N. kaouthia venom exhibited more in PLA2, acetylcholinesterase, anticoagulant, fibrinogenolytic and necrotizing activities than N. mandalayensis venom. N. mandalayensis venom had more protease activity and myotoxicity than N. kaouthia venom. The median lethal dose (LD50) of N. kaouthia and N. mandalayensis venom was 4.33 μg/mouse and 5.04 μg/mouse respectively. Both venoms induced fibrinogen Aα chain degradation in 30 min (N. kaouthia) and in 6 h (N. mandalayensis). The same median effective dose (ED50) (19.56 μg/mouse) showed that anti-NK antivenom can neutralize against lethal effect of N. mandalayensis venom. It can also neutralize the protease activity, anticoagulant activity and fibrinogenolytic activity of both venoms. Immunodiffusion and immunoblotting studies showed that the antivenom recognized its homologous venom (N. kaouthia) and cross-reacted against the heterologous venom (N. mandalayensis). The anti-NK antivenom is suitable to use for N. mandalayensis bite if monospecific antivenom is not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mya Nila Win
- Myanma Pharmaceutical Enterprise, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | | | - Ei Ei Thin
- University of Pharmacy, Mandalay, Myanmar
| | - Su Mon Win
- Department of Medical Research, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | - Myo Myo Aye
- Department of Medical Research, Yangon, Myanmar
| | | | | | | | - Aung Zaw
- Myanma Pharmaceutical Enterprise, Yangon, Myanmar
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Jaglan A, Bhatia S, Martin G, Sunagar K. The Royal Armoury: Venomics and antivenomics of king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) from the Indian Western Ghats. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:126708. [PMID: 37673142 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.126708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Despite being famous as 'the king' of the snake world, the king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) has remained a mysterious species, particularly with respect to its venom ecology. In contrast, venom research has largely focussed on the 'big four' snakes that are greatly responsible for the burden of snakebite in the Indian subcontinent. This study aims to bridge the current void in our understanding of the O. hannah venom by investigating its proteomic, biochemical, pharmacological, and toxinological profiles via interdisciplinary approaches. Considering their physical resemblance, the king cobra is often compared to the spectacled cobra (Naja naja). Comparative venomics of O. hannah and N. naja in this study provided interesting insights into their venom compositions, activities, and potencies. Our findings suggest that the O. hannah venom, despite being relatively less complex than the N. naja venom, is equally potent. Finally, our in vitro and in vivo assays revealed that both Indian polyvalent and Thai Red Cross monovalent antivenoms completely fail to neutralise the O. hannah venom. Our findings provide guidelines for the management of bites from this clinically important yet neglected snake species in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anurag Jaglan
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India
| | - Siddharth Bhatia
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India
| | - Gerard Martin
- The Liana Trust, Survey #1418/1419 Rathnapuri, Hunsur 571189, Karnataka, India
| | - Kartik Sunagar
- Evolutionary Venomics Lab, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, Karnataka, India.
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Tan CH, Tan KY, Tan NH. De Novo Assembly of Venom Gland Transcriptome of Tropidolaemus wagleri (Temple Pit Viper, Malaysia) and Insights into the Origin of Its Major Toxin, Waglerin. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:585. [PMID: 37756011 PMCID: PMC10537322 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15090585] [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: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The venom proteome of Temple Pit Viper (Tropidolaemus wagleri) is unique among pit vipers, characterized by a high abundance of a neurotoxic peptide, waglerin. To further explore the genetic diversity of its toxins, the present study de novo assembled the venom gland transcriptome of T. wagleri from west Malaysia. Among the 15 toxin gene families discovered, gene annotation and expression analysis reveal the dominating trend of bradykinin-potentiating peptide/angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor-C-type natriuretic peptide (BPP/ACEI-CNP, 76.19% of all-toxin transcription) in the transcriptome, followed by P-III snake venom metalloproteases (13.91%) and other toxins. The transcript TwBNP01 of BPP/ACEI-CNP represents a large precursor gene (209 amino acid residues) containing the coding region for waglerin (24 residues). TwBNP01 shows substantial sequence variations from the corresponding genes of its sister species, Tropidolaemus subannulatus of northern Philippines, and other viperid species which diversely code for proline-rich small peptides such as bradykinin-potentiating peptides (BPPs). The waglerin/waglerin-like peptides, BPPs and azemiopsin are proline-rich, evolving de novo from multiple highly diverged propeptide regions within the orthologous BPP/ACEI-CNP genes. Neofunctionalization of the peptides results in phylogenetic constraints consistent with a phenotypic dichotomy, where Tropidolaemus spp. and Azemiops feae convergently evolve a neurotoxic trait while vasoactive BPPs evolve only in other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choo Hock Tan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- College of Life Sciences and Medicine, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (K.Y.T.); (N.H.T.)
| | - Nget Hong Tan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (K.Y.T.); (N.H.T.)
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Op den Brouw B, Fernandez-Rojo MA, Charlton T, Fry BG, Ikonomopoulou MP. Malaysian and Chinese King Cobra Venom Cytotoxicity in Melanoma and Neonatal Foreskin Fibroblasts Is Mediated by Age and Geography. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:549. [PMID: 37755975 PMCID: PMC10534572 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15090549] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Snake venoms constitute a complex, rapidly evolving trait, whose composition varies between and within populations depending on geographical location, age and preys (diets). These factors have determined the adaptive evolution for predatory success and link venom heterogeneity with prey specificity. Moreover, understanding the evolutionary drivers of animal venoms has streamlined the biodiscovery of venom-derived compounds as drug candidates in biomedicine and biotechnology. The king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah; Cantor, 1836) is distributed in diverse habitats, forming independent populations, which confer differing scale markings, including between hatchlings and adults. Furthermore, king cobra venoms possess unique cytotoxic properties that are used as a defensive trait, but their toxins may also have utility as promising anticancer-agent candidates. However, the impact of geographical distribution and age on these potential venom applications has been typically neglected. In this study, we hypothesised that ontogenetic venom variation accompanies the morphological distinction between hatchlings and adults. We used non-transformed neonatal foreskin (NFF) fibroblasts to examine and compare the variability of venom cytotoxicity between adult captive breeding pairs from Malaysian and Chinese lineages, along with that of their progeny upon hatching. In parallel, we assessed the anticancer potential of these venoms in human-melanoma-patient-derived cells (MM96L). We found that in a geographical distribution and gender-independent manner, venoms from hatchlings were significantly less cytotoxic than those from adults (NFF; ~Log EC50: 0.5-0.6 vs. 0.2-0.35 mg/mL). This is consistent with neonates occupying a semifossorial habitat, while adults inhabit more above-ground habitats and are therefore more conspicuous to potential predators. We also observed that Malaysian venoms exhibited a slightly higher cytotoxicity than those from the Chinese cobra cohorts (NFF; Log EC50: 0.1-0.3 vs. 0.3-0.4 mg/mL), which is consistent with Malaysian king cobras being more strongly aposematically marked. These variations are therefore suggestive of differential anti-predator strategies associated with the occupation of distinct niches. However, all cobra venoms were similarly cytotoxic in both melanoma cells and fibroblasts, limiting their potential medical applications in their native forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Op den Brouw
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Manuel A. Fernandez-Rojo
- Hepatic Regenerative Medicine Group, Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies in Food, E28049 Madrid, Spain;
- Diamantina Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Tom Charlton
- Department of Natural Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, All Saints Building, Manchester M15 6BH, UK;
| | - Bryan G. Fry
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia;
| | - Maria P. Ikonomopoulou
- Translational Venomics Group, Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies in Food, E28049 Madrid, Spain
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
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Vásquez-Escobar J, Benjumea-Gutiérrez DM, Lopera C, Clement HC, Bolaños DI, Higuita-Castro JL, Corzo GA, Corrales-Garcia LL. Heterologous Expression of an Insecticidal Peptide Obtained from the Transcriptome of the Colombian Spider Phoneutria depilate. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:436. [PMID: 37505705 PMCID: PMC10467102 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15070436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Spider venoms are composed, among other substances, of peptide toxins whose selectivity for certain physiological targets has made them powerful tools for applications such as bioinsecticides, analgesics, antiarrhythmics, antibacterials, antifungals and antimalarials, among others. Bioinsecticides are an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional agrochemicals. In this paper, the primary structure of an insecticidal peptide was obtained from the venom gland transcriptome of the ctenid spider Phoneutria depilata (Transcript ID PhdNtxNav24). The peptide contains 53 amino acids, including 10 Cys residues that form 5 disulfide bonds. Using the amino acid sequence of such peptide, a synthetic gene was constructed de novo by overlapping PCRs and cloned into an expression vector. A recombinant peptide, named delta-ctenitoxin (rCtx-4), was obtained. It was expressed, folded, purified and validated using mass spectrometry (7994.61 Da). The insecticidal activity of rCtx-4 was demonstrated through intrathoracic injection in crickets (LD50 1.2 μg/g insect) and it was not toxic to mice. rCtx-4 is a potential bioinsecticide that could have a broad spectrum of applications in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Vásquez-Escobar
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin 1226, Colombia; (D.M.B.-G.); (C.L.)
| | - Dora María Benjumea-Gutiérrez
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin 1226, Colombia; (D.M.B.-G.); (C.L.)
| | - Carolina Lopera
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin 1226, Colombia; (D.M.B.-G.); (C.L.)
| | - Herlinda C. Clement
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, A.P. 510-3, Cuernavaca 62250, Mexico; (H.C.C.); (D.I.B.); (G.A.C.)
| | - Damaris I. Bolaños
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, A.P. 510-3, Cuernavaca 62250, Mexico; (H.C.C.); (D.I.B.); (G.A.C.)
| | - Jorge Luis Higuita-Castro
- PECET—Programa para el Estudio y Control de Enfermedades Tropicales, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín 050010, Colombia;
| | - Gerardo A. Corzo
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, A.P. 510-3, Cuernavaca 62250, Mexico; (H.C.C.); (D.I.B.); (G.A.C.)
| | - Ligia Luz Corrales-Garcia
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, A.P. 510-3, Cuernavaca 62250, Mexico; (H.C.C.); (D.I.B.); (G.A.C.)
- PECET—Programa para el Estudio y Control de Enfermedades Tropicales, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín 050010, Colombia;
- Departamento de Alimentos, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín 1226, Colombia
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Tan CH, Tan KY, Ng TS, Tan NH, Chong HP. De Novo Venom Gland Transcriptome Assembly and Characterization for Calloselasma rhodostoma (Kuhl, 1824), the Malayan Pit Viper from Malaysia: Unravelling Toxin Gene Diversity in a Medically Important Basal Crotaline. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15050315. [PMID: 37235350 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15050315] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In Southeast Asia, the Malayan Pit Viper (Calloselasma rhodostoma) is a venomous snake species of medical importance and bioprospecting potential. To unveil the diversity of its toxin genes, this study de novo assembled and analyzed the venom gland transcriptome of C. rhodostoma from Malaysia. The expression of toxin genes dominates the gland transcriptome by 53.78% of total transcript abundance (based on overall FPKM, Fragments Per Kilobase Million), in which 92 non-redundant transcripts belonging to 16 toxin families were identified. Snake venom metalloproteinase (SVMP, PI > PII > PIII) is the most dominant family (37.84% of all toxin FPKM), followed by phospholipase A2 (29.02%), bradykinin/angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor-C-type natriuretic peptide (16.30%), C-type lectin (CTL, 10.01%), snake venom serine protease (SVSP, 2.81%), L-amino acid oxidase (2.25%), and others (1.78%). The expressions of SVMP, CTL, and SVSP correlate with hemorrhagic, anti-platelet, and coagulopathic effects in envenoming. The SVMP metalloproteinase domains encode hemorrhagins (kistomin and rhodostoxin), while disintegrin (rhodostomin from P-II) acts by inhibiting platelet aggregation. CTL gene homologues uncovered include rhodocytin (platelet aggregators) and rhodocetin (platelet inhibitors), which contribute to thrombocytopenia and platelet dysfunction. The major SVSP is a thrombin-like enzyme (an ancrod homolog) responsible for defibrination in consumptive coagulopathy. The findings provide insight into the venom complexity of C. rhodostoma and the pathophysiology of envenoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choo Hock Tan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Tzu Shan Ng
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Nget Hong Tan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Ho Phin Chong
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
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Yee KT, Macrander J, Vasieva O, Rojnuckarin P. Exploring Toxin Genes of Myanmar Russell's Viper, Daboia siamensis, through De Novo Venom Gland Transcriptomics. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15050309. [PMID: 37235344 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15050309] [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: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Russell's viper (Daboia siamensis) is a medically important venomous snake in Myanmar. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) shows potential to investigate the venom complexity, giving deeper insights into snakebite pathogenesis and possible drug discoveries. mRNA from venom gland tissue was extracted and sequenced on the Illumina HiSeq platform and de novo assembled by Trinity. The candidate toxin genes were identified via the Venomix pipeline. Protein sequences of identified toxin candidates were compared with the previously described venom proteins using Clustal Omega to assess the positional homology among candidates. Candidate venom transcripts were classified into 23 toxin gene families including 53 unique full-length transcripts. C-type lectins (CTLs) were the most highly expressed, followed by Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitors, disintegrins and Bradykinin potentiating peptide/C-type natriuretic peptide (BPP-CNP) precursors. Phospholipase A2, snake venom serine proteases, metalloproteinases, vascular endothelial growth factors, L-amino acid oxidases and cysteine-rich secretory proteins were under-represented within the transcriptomes. Several isoforms of transcripts which had not been previously reported in this species were discovered and described. Myanmar Russell's viper venom glands displayed unique sex-specific transcriptome profiles which were correlated with clinical manifestation of envenoming. Our results show that NGS is a useful tool to comprehensively examine understudied venomous snakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khin Than Yee
- Department of Medical Research, Ministry of Health, Yangon 11191, Myanmar
| | - Jason Macrander
- Department of Biology, Florida Southern College, Lakeland, FL 33801, USA
| | - Olga Vasieva
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK
- BioSynthetic Machines, Inc., Chicago, IL 60062, USA
| | - Ponlapat Rojnuckarin
- Excellence Center in Translational Hematology, Division of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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Alam MJ, Maruf M, Iqbal MA, Hasan M, Sohan MS, Shariar MR, Haidar IKA, Chowdhury MAW, Ghose A, Hoque KMF, Reza MA. Evaluation of the properties of Bungarus caeruleus venom and checking the efficacy of antivenom used in Bangladesh for its bite treatment. Toxicon X 2023; 17:100149. [PMID: 36654657 PMCID: PMC9841277 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2023.100149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
As a disaster-prone country with unique geographical features, snake biting is a major public health concern in Bangladesh. The primary reasons of mortality from snakebite include late presentation to the hospital, low efficacy of antivenom, and a lack of adequate management facilities. Because snake venom characteristics vary depending on geographical location, antivenom should be manufactured from snakes native to the region in which it would be administered. Bungarus caeruleus is a highly venomous snake contributing to the major snakebite issue in Bangladesh. Therefore, the neutralization efficacy of the antivenom against B. caeruleus venom was evaluated in the current study along with the characterization of venom. For biological characterization of venom, RP-HPLC and SDS-PAGE profiling, hemolytic activity, hemorrhagic activity, phospholipases A2 (PLA2) activity, edema inducing activity and histopathological observations were carried out following standard protocol. LD50 of the venom was calculated along with neutralization potency of Incepta antivenom through probit analysis. Results showed that venom possesses phospholipase A2 activity, hemolytic activity and edema inducing activity while hemorrhagic activity was absent in the skin of envenomed mice. Histopathological alterations including necrosis, congestion and infiltrations were observed in envenomed mice organs after hematoxylin and eosin staining. Neutralization study showed that Incepta polyvalent antivenom could neutralize (potency 0.53 mg/ml) the lethal effect in in vitro study on mice. Further investigation on snakebite epidemiology and clinical observations of the envenomed patients will help in combating the snakebite problem more efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Jahangir Alam
- Molecular Biology and Protein Science Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh
| | - Md.Mahmudul.Hasan Maruf
- Molecular Biology and Protein Science Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Asif Iqbal
- Molecular Biology and Protein Science Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh
| | - Mahedi Hasan
- Molecular Biology and Protein Science Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Sohanur.Rahman Sohan
- Molecular Biology and Protein Science Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Ragib Shariar
- Molecular Biology and Protein Science Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh
| | - Ibrahim Khalil Al Haidar
- Venom Research Centre, Chittagong Medical College, Chattogram, 4203, Bangladesh,Department of Zoology, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, 4331, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Abdul Wahed Chowdhury
- Venom Research Centre, Chittagong Medical College, Chattogram, 4203, Bangladesh,Department of Zoology, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, 4331, Bangladesh
| | - Aniruddha Ghose
- Venom Research Centre, Chittagong Medical College, Chattogram, 4203, Bangladesh,Department of Medicine, Chittagong Medical College, Chattogram, 4203, Bangladesh
| | - Kazi Md Faisal Hoque
- Molecular Biology and Protein Science Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh
| | - Md Abu Reza
- Molecular Biology and Protein Science Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh,Corresponding author.
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A current perspective on snake venom composition and constituent protein families. Arch Toxicol 2023; 97:133-153. [PMID: 36437303 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03420-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Snake venoms are heterogeneous mixtures of proteins and peptides used for prey subjugation. With modern proteomics there has been a rapid expansion in our knowledge of snake venom composition, resulting in the venom proteomes of 30% of vipers and 17% of elapids being characterised. From the reasonably complete proteomic coverage of front-fanged snake venom composition (179 species-68 species of elapids and 111 species of vipers), the venoms of vipers and elapids contained 42 different protein families, although 18 were only reported in < 5% of snake species. Based on the mean abundance and occurrence of the 42 protein families, they can be classified into 4 dominant, 6 secondary, 14 minor, and 18 rare protein families. The dominant, secondary and minor categories account for 96% on average of a snake's venom composition. The four dominant protein families are: phospholipase A2 (PLA2), snake venom metalloprotease (SVMP), three-finger toxins (3FTx), and snake venom serine protease (SVSP). The six secondary protein families are: L-amino acid oxidase (LAAO), cysteine-rich secretory protein (CRiSP), C-type lectins (CTL), disintegrins (DIS), kunitz peptides (KUN), and natriuretic peptides (NP). Venom variation occurs at all taxonomic levels, including within populations. The reasons for venom variation are complex, as variation is not always associated with geographical variation in diet. The four dominant protein families appear to be the most important toxin families in human envenomation, being responsible for coagulopathy, neurotoxicity, myotoxicity and cytotoxicity. Proteomic techniques can be used to investigate the toxicological profile of a snake venom and hence identify key protein families for antivenom immunorecognition.
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Chan YW, Tan CH, Heh CH, Tan KY. An immunoinformatic approach to assessing the immunogenic capacity of alpha-neurotoxins in elapid snake venoms. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1143437. [PMID: 37153801 PMCID: PMC10155835 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1143437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Most elapid snakes produce venoms that contain alpha-neurotoxins (α-NTXs), which are proteins that cause post-synaptic blockade and paralysis in snakebite envenoming. However, existing elapid antivenoms are known for their low potency in neutralizing the neurotoxic activity of α-NTXs, while the immunological basis has not been elucidated. Methods: In this study, a structure-based major histocompatibility complex II (MHCII) epitope predictor of horse (Equus caballus), complemented with DM-editing determinant screening algorithm was adopted to assess the immunogenicity of α-NTXs in the venoms of major Asiatic elapids (Naja kaouthia, Ophiophagus hannah, Laticauda colubrina, Hydrophis schistosus, Hydrophis curtus). Results: The scoring metric M2R, representing the relative immunogenic performance of respective α-NTXs, showed all α-NTXs have an overall low M2R of <0.3, and most of the predicted binders feature non-optimal P1 anchor residues. The M2R scores correlate strongly (R2 = 0.82) with the potency scores (p-score) generated based on the relative abundances of α-NTXs and the neutralization potency of commercial antivenoms. Discussion: The immunoinformatic analysis indicates that the inferior antigenicity of α-NTXs is not only due to their small molecular size but also the subpar immunogenicity affected by their amino acid composition. Structural modification with conjugation and synthetic epitope as immunogen may potentially enhance the immunogenicity for improved antivenom potency against α-NTXs of elapid snakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wei Chan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choo Hock Tan
- Venom Research and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choon Han Heh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Kae Yi Tan,
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11
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Michálek O, Walker AA, Šedo O, Zdráhal Z, King GF, Pekár S. Composition and toxicity of venom produced by araneophagous white-tailed spiders (Lamponidae: Lampona sp.). Sci Rep 2022; 12:21597. [PMID: 36517485 PMCID: PMC9751281 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24694-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Prey-specialised spiders are adapted to capture specific prey items, including dangerous prey. The venoms of specialists are often prey-specific and less complex than those of generalists, but their venom composition has not been studied in detail. Here, we investigated the venom of the prey-specialised white-tailed spiders (Lamponidae: Lampona), which utilise specialised morphological and behavioural adaptations to capture spider prey. We analysed the venom composition using proteo-transcriptomics and taxon-specific toxicity using venom bioassays. Our analysis identified 208 putative toxin sequences, comprising 103 peptides < 10 kDa and 105 proteins > 10 kDa. Most peptides belonged to one of two families characterised by scaffolds containing eight or ten cysteine residues. Toxin-like proteins showed similarity to galectins, leucine-rich repeat proteins, trypsins and neprilysins. The venom of Lampona was shown to be more potent against the preferred spider prey than against alternative cricket prey. In contrast, the venom of a related generalist was similarly potent against both prey types. These data provide insights into the molecular adaptations of venoms produced by prey-specialised spiders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondřej Michálek
- grid.10267.320000 0001 2194 0956Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Andrew A. Walker
- grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072 Australia ,grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Ondrej Šedo
- grid.10267.320000 0001 2194 0956Research Group Proteomics, Mendel Centre for Plant Genomics and Proteomics, Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic ,grid.10267.320000 0001 2194 0956Faculty of Science, National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zbyněk Zdráhal
- grid.10267.320000 0001 2194 0956Research Group Proteomics, Mendel Centre for Plant Genomics and Proteomics, Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic ,grid.10267.320000 0001 2194 0956Faculty of Science, National Centre for Biomolecular Research, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Glenn F. King
- grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072 Australia ,grid.1003.20000 0000 9320 7537Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Innovations in Peptide and Protein Science, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Stano Pekár
- grid.10267.320000 0001 2194 0956Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 611 37 Brno, Czech Republic
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12
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Tolpina MD, Vasileva ID, Samgina TY. Modern Approaches in de novo Sequencing of Nontryptic Peptides of Ranid and Hylid Frogs by Means of Mass Spectrometry: A Review. JOURNAL OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1061934822130081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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13
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Chan YW, Tan KY, Tan CH. Preclinical assessment of VPEAV, a new trivalent antivenom for elapid snakebite envenoming in the Philippines: Proteomics, immunoreactivity and toxicity neutralization. Toxicon 2022; 220:106942. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.106942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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14
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Venom Variation of Neonate and Adult Chinese Cobras in Captivity Concerning Their Foraging Strategies. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14090598. [PMID: 36136536 PMCID: PMC9501182 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14090598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The venom and transcriptome profile of the captive Chinese cobra (Naja atra) is not characterized until now. Here, LC-MS/MS and illumine technology were used to unveil the venom and trascriptome of neonates and adults N. atra specimens. In captive Chinese cobra, 98 co-existing transcripts for venom-related proteins was contained. A total of 127 proteins belong to 21 protein families were found in the profile of venom. The main components of snake venom were three finger toxins (3-FTx), snake venom metalloproteinase (SVMP), cysteine-rich secretory protein (CRISP), cobra venom factor (CVF), and phosphodiesterase (PDE). During the ontogenesis of captive Chinese cobra, the rearrangement of snake venom composition occurred and with obscure gender difference. CVF, 3-FTx, PDE, phospholipase A2 (PLA2) in adults were more abundant than neonates, while SVMP and CRISP in the neonates was richer than the adults. Ontogenetic changes in the proteome of Chinese cobra venom reveals different strategies for handling prey. The levels of different types of toxin families were dramatically altered in the wild and captive specimens. Therefore, we speculate that the captive process could reshape the snake venom composition vigorously. The clear comprehension of the composition of Chinese cobra venom facilitates the understanding of the mechanism of snakebite intoxication and guides the preparation and administration of traditional antivenom and next-generation drugs for snakebite.
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15
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Oliveira ISD, Pucca MB, Ferreira IG, Cerni FA, Jacob BDCDS, Wiezel GA, Pinheiro-Júnior EL, Cordeiro FA, Bordon KDCF, Arantes EC. State-of-the-art review of snake venom phosphodiesterases (svPDEs). Toxicon 2022; 217:121-130. [PMID: 35998712 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) constitute an enzyme group able to hydrolyze nucleic acids as well as some second messengers. Due to this ability and their expression in several human tissues and organs, PDEs can control a gamut of physiological processes. They are also involved in some pathological conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease and erectile dysfunction. PDEs are also expressed in snake venom glands, being called snake venoms phosphodiesterases, or simply svPDEs. The occurrence of these enzymes has already been reported in crotalid, elapid and viperid venoms, such as Crotalus, Naja and Trimeresurus, respectively, but not all of them have been characterized concerning their structure, activity and function. In this review, we are addressing general characteristics of svPDEs, in addition to their structural, biochemical and functional characteristics, and we also report some potential applications of svPDEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isadora Sousa de Oliveira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Manuela Berto Pucca
- Medical School, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, RR, Brazil; Health Sciences Postgraduate Program, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, RR, Brazil
| | - Isabela Gobbo Ferreira
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe Augusto Cerni
- Health Sciences Postgraduate Program, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, RR, Brazil
| | - Beatriz de Cássia da Silva Jacob
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Gisele Adriano Wiezel
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Ernesto Lopes Pinheiro-Júnior
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Francielle Almeida Cordeiro
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Karla de Castro Figueiredo Bordon
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Eliane Candiani Arantes
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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16
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Ong HL, Tan CH, Lee LP, Khor SM, Tan KY. An immunodetection assay developed using cobra cytotoxin-specific antibodies: Potential diagnostics for cobra envenoming. Toxicon 2022; 216:157-168. [PMID: 35868411 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Cobra (Naja spp.) envenoming is a life-threatening medical emergency, and a correct diagnosis is crucial to initiating timely and appropriate antivenom treatment. However, snakebite diagnostics remain unavailable in Southeast Asia. This study, therefore, developed an immunodetection assay with a potential diagnostic application for cobra envenoming. The cytotoxin of Naja kaouthia (Thai Monocled Cobra) (Nk-CTX) was purified from its venom to produce CTX-specific antibodies in rabbits and chickens. A double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was developed using the purified anti-Nk-CTX antibodies (immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin Y), and its selectivity, specificity, and sensitivity for the venoms of five major cobra species in Southeast Asia (N. kaouthia, Naja sumatrana, Naja sputatrix, and Naja siamensis, Naja philippinensis) were studied. The results showed the immunoassay discriminates cobra venoms from other species commonly implicated in snakebites in Southeast Asia, i.e., the Malayan Krait, Many-banded Krait, King Cobra, Eastern Russell's Viper, Malayan Pit Viper and White-lipped Pit Viper. The immunoassay has a high sensitivity for the five cobra venoms, with detection limits (LoD) ranging from 0.6 to 2.6 ng/ml. Together, the findings suggest the potential diagnostic application of the cytotoxin immunoassay for cobra envenoming. The immunoassay was found to exhibit high immunoreactivity toward ten Asiatic cobra venoms (absorbance>1.5), in contrast to African cobra venoms with low immunoreactivity (absorbance<0.9). Considering the varying CTX antigenicity between Asiatic and African cobras, the immunoassay for African cobras should utilize antibodies produced specifically from the cytotoxins of African cobra venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Ling Ong
- Protein and Interactomics Lab, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choo Hock Tan
- Venom Research and Toxicology Lab, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Louisa Pernee Lee
- Venom Research and Toxicology Lab, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sook Mei Khor
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Lab, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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17
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Laugesen SH, Chou DHC, Safavi-Hemami H. Unconventional insulins from predators and pathogens. Nat Chem Biol 2022; 18:688-697. [PMID: 35761080 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-022-01068-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Insulin and its related peptides are found throughout the animal kingdom, in which they serve diverse functions. This includes regulation of glucose homeostasis, neuronal development and cognition. The surprising recent discovery that venomous snails evolved specialized insulins to capture fish demonstrated the nefarious use of this hormone in nature. Because of their streamlined role in predation, these repurposed insulins exhibit unique characteristics that have unraveled new aspects of the chemical ecology and structural biology of this important hormone. Recently, insulins were also reported in other venomous predators and pathogenic viruses, demonstrating the broader use of insulin by one organism to manipulate the physiology of another. In this Review, we provide an overview of the discovery and biomedical application of repurposed insulins and other hormones found in nature and highlight several unique insights gained from these unusual compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Danny Hung-Chieh Chou
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Helena Safavi-Hemami
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA. .,School of Biological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
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18
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Vásquez-Escobar J, Romero-Gutiérrez T, Morales JA, Clement HC, Corzo GA, Benjumea DM, Corrales-García LL. Transcriptomic Analysis of the Venom Gland and Enzymatic Characterization of the Venom of Phoneutria depilata (Ctenidae) from Colombia. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14050295. [PMID: 35622542 PMCID: PMC9144723 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14050295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The transcriptome of the venom glands of the Phoneutria depilata spider was analyzed using RNA-seq with an Illumina protocol, which yielded 86,424 assembled transcripts. A total of 682 transcripts were identified as potentially coding for venom components. Most of the transcripts found were neurotoxins (156) that commonly act on sodium and calcium channels. Nevertheless, transcripts coding for some enzymes (239), growth factors (48), clotting factors (6), and a diuretic hormone (1) were found, which have not been described in this spider genus. Furthermore, an enzymatic characterization of the venom of P. depilata was performed, and the proteomic analysis showed a correlation between active protein bands and protein sequences found in the transcriptome. The transcriptomic analysis of P. depilata venom glands show a deeper description of its protein components, allowing the identification of novel molecules that could lead to the treatment of human diseases, or could be models for developing bioinsecticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Vásquez-Escobar
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin 1226, Colombia;
- Correspondence: (J.V.-E.); (L.L.C.-G.)
| | - Teresa Romero-Gutiérrez
- Traslational Bioengineering Department, Exact Sciences and Engineering University Center, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44430, Mexico; (T.R.-G.); (J.A.M.)
| | - José Alejandro Morales
- Traslational Bioengineering Department, Exact Sciences and Engineering University Center, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44430, Mexico; (T.R.-G.); (J.A.M.)
| | - Herlinda C. Clement
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico; (H.C.C.); (G.A.C.)
| | - Gerardo A. Corzo
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico; (H.C.C.); (G.A.C.)
| | - Dora M. Benjumea
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin 1226, Colombia;
| | - Ligia Luz Corrales-García
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca 62210, Mexico; (H.C.C.); (G.A.C.)
- Departamento de Alimentos, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellin 1226, Colombia
- Correspondence: (J.V.-E.); (L.L.C.-G.)
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19
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The Effect of Australian and Asian Commercial Antivenoms in Reversing the Post-Synaptic Neurotoxicity of O. hannah, N. naja and N. kaouthia Venoms In Vitro. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14040277. [PMID: 35448886 PMCID: PMC9024492 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14040277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite antivenoms being the only established specific treatment for neuromuscular paralysis arising from snake envenoming, their ability to reverse the post-synaptic neurotoxicity in snake envenoming is poorly understood. We investigated the ability of five commercial antivenoms i.e., King cobra monovalent, Thai cobra monovalent, Thai neuro polyvalent, Indian polyvalent and Australian polyvalent antivenoms to reverse neurotoxicity induced by the venoms of King cobra (Ophiophagus hannah, 3 µg/mL), Indian cobra (Naja naja, 5 µg/mL) and Thai cobra (Naja kaouthia, 3 µg/mL) using the in vitro chick-biventer cervicis nerve–muscle preparation. All three venoms displayed post-synaptic neurotoxicity, which was prevented by all tested antivenoms (40 µL/mL) added to the bath prior to venom. All antivenoms partially reversed the established post-synaptic neuromuscular block after the addition of the three venoms during a 180 min observation period, but to varying degrees and at different rates. The neurotoxic effects of O. hannah venom recovered to a greater magnitude (based on twitch height restoration) and faster than the neurotoxicity of N. kaouthia venom, which recovered to a lower magnitude more slowly. The recovery of post-synaptic neurotoxicity by N. naja venom was hindered due to the likely presence of cytotoxins in the venom, which cause direct muscle damage. The observations made in this study provide further evidence that the commercial antivenoms are likely to actively reverse established α-neurotoxin-mediated neuromuscular paralysis in snake envenoming, and there is cross-neutralisation with different antivenoms.
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20
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do Nascimento SM, de Oliveira UC, Nishiyama-Jr MY, Tashima AK, Silva Junior PID. Presence of a neprilysin on Avicularia juruensis (Mygalomorphae: Theraphosidae) venom. TOXIN REV 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15569543.2021.1878226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Soraia Maria do Nascimento
- Laboratory of Applied Toxinology – Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS/CEPID), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program Interunits in Biotechnology, USP/IBu/IPT, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ursula Castro de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Applied Toxinology – Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS/CEPID), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Milton Yutaka Nishiyama-Jr
- Laboratory of Applied Toxinology – Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS/CEPID), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Pedro Ismael da Silva Junior
- Laboratory of Applied Toxinology – Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS/CEPID), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program Interunits in Biotechnology, USP/IBu/IPT, São Paulo, Brazil
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21
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Snake Venomics: Fundamentals, Recent Updates, and a Look to the Next Decade. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14040247. [PMID: 35448856 PMCID: PMC9028316 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14040247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Venomic research, powered by techniques adapted from proteomics, transcriptomics, and genomics, seeks to unravel the diversity and complexity of venom through which knowledge can be applied in the treatment of envenoming, biodiscovery, and conservation. Snake venom proteomics is most extensively studied, but the methods varied widely, creating a massive amount of information which complicates data comparison and interpretation. Advancement in mass spectrometry technology, accompanied by growing databases and sophisticated bioinformatic tools, has overcome earlier limitations of protein identification. The progress, however, remains challenged by limited accessibility to samples, non-standardized quantitative methods, and biased interpretation of -omic data. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies enable high-throughput venom-gland transcriptomics and genomics, complementing venom proteomics by providing deeper insights into the structural diversity, differential expression, regulation and functional interaction of the toxin genes. Venomic tissue sampling is, however, difficult due to strict regulations on wildlife use and transfer of biological materials in some countries. Limited resources for techniques and funding are among other pertinent issues that impede the progress of venomics, particularly in less developed regions and for neglected species. Genuine collaboration between international researchers, due recognition of regional experts by global organizations (e.g., WHO), and improved distribution of research support, should be embraced.
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22
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Huynh TM, Silva A, Isbister GK, Hodgson WC. Isolation and Pharmacological Characterization of α-Elapitoxin-Oh3a, a Long-Chain Post-Synaptic Neurotoxin From King Cobra ( Ophiophagus hannah) Venom. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:815069. [PMID: 35341214 PMCID: PMC8942764 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.815069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) is the world's largest venomous snake and has a widespread geographical distribution throughout Southeast Asia. Despite proteomic studies indicating the presence of postsynaptic neurotoxins in O. hannah venom, there are few pharmacological investigations of these toxins. We isolated and characterized α-elapitoxin-Oh3a (α-EPTX-Oh3a; 7,938 Da), a long-chain postsynaptic neurotoxin, which constitutes 5% of O. hannah venom. α-EPTX-Oh3a (100-300 nM) caused concentration-dependent inhibition of indirect twitches and inhibited contractile responses of tissues to exogenous acetylcholine and carbachol, in the chick biventer cervicis nerve-muscle preparation. The prior incubation of tissues with Thai Red Cross Society King Cobra antivenom (1 ml/0.8 mg) prevented the in vitro neurotoxic effects of α-EPTX-Oh3a (100 nM). The addition of Thai Red Cross Society King Cobra antivenom (1 ml/0.8 mg), at the t90 time point partially reversed the in vitro neurotoxicity of α-EPTX-Oh3a (100 nM). Repeatedly washing the tissue did not allow significant recovery from the in vitro neurotoxic effects of α-EPTX-Oh3a (100 nM). α-EPTX-Oh3a demonstrated pseudo-irreversible antagonism of concentration-response curves to carbachol, with a pA2 of 8.99. De novo sequencing of α-EPTX-Oh3a showed a long-chain postsynaptic neurotoxin with 72 amino acids, sharing 100% sequence identity with Long neurotoxin OH-55. In conclusion, the antivenom is useful for reversing the clinically important long-chain α-neurotoxin-mediated neuromuscular paralysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tam M Huynh
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Anjana Silva
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Geoffrey K Isbister
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,Clinical Toxicology Research Group, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Wayne C Hodgson
- Monash Venom Group, Department of Pharmacology, Biomedical Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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23
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Palasuberniam P, Chan YW, Tan KY, Tan CH. Snake Venom Proteomics of Samar Cobra (Naja samarensis) from the Southern Philippines: Short Alpha-Neurotoxins as the Dominant Lethal Component Weakly Cross-Neutralized by the Philippine Cobra Antivenom. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:727756. [PMID: 35002690 PMCID: PMC8740184 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.727756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Samar Cobra, Naja samarensis, is endemic to the southern Philippines and is a WHO-listed Category 1 venomous snake species of medical importance. Envenomation caused by N. samarensis results in neurotoxicity, while there is no species-specific antivenom available for its treatment. The composition and neutralization of N. samarensis venom remain largely unknown to date. This study thus aimed to investigate the venom proteome of N. samarensis for a comprehensive profiling of the venom composition, and to examine the immunorecognition as well as neutralization of its toxins by a hetero-specific antivenom. Applying C18 reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), three-finger toxins (3FTx) were shown to dominate the venom proteome by 90.48% of total venom proteins. Other proteins in the venom comprised snake venom metalloproteinases, phospholipases A2, cysteine-rich secretory proteins, venom nerve growth factors, L-amino acid oxidases and vespryn, which were present at much lower abundances. Among all, short-chain alpha-neurotoxins (SαNTX) were the most highly expressed toxin within 3FTx family, constituting 65.87% of the total venom proteins. The SαNTX is the sole neurotoxic component of the venom and has an intravenous median lethal dose (LD50) of 0.18 μg/g in mice. The high abundance and low LD50 support the potent lethal activity of N. samarensis venom. The hetero-specific antivenom, Philippine Cobra Antivenom (PCAV, raised against Naja philippinensis) were immunoreactive toward the venom and its protein fractions, including the principal SαNTX. In efficacy study, PCAV was able to cross-neutralize the lethality of SαNTX albeit the effect was weak with a low potency of 0.20 mg/ml (defined as the amount of toxin completely neutralized per milliliter of the antivenom). With a volume of 5 ml, each vial of PCAV may cross-neutralize approximately 1 mg of the toxin in vivo. The findings support the potential para-specific use of PCAV in treating envenomation caused by N. samarensis while underscoring the need to improve the potency of its neutralization activity, especially against the highly lethal alpha-neurotoxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praneetha Palasuberniam
- Venom Research and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Yi Wei Chan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choo Hock Tan
- Venom Research and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Modahl CM, Saviola AJ, Mackessy SP. Integration of transcriptomic and proteomic approaches for snake venom profiling. Expert Rev Proteomics 2021; 18:827-834. [PMID: 34663159 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2021.1995357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Snake venoms contain many protein and peptide isoforms with high levels of sequence variation, even within a single species. AREAS COVERED In this review, we highlight several examples, from both published and unpublished work in our lab, demonstrating how a combined venom gland transcriptome and proteome methodology allows for comprehensive characterization of venoms, including those from understudied rear-fanged snake species, and we provide recommendations for using these approaches. EXPERT OPINION When characterizing venoms, peptide mass fingerprinting using databases built predominately from protein sequences originating from model organisms can be disadvantageous, especially when the intention is to document protein diversity. Therefore, the use of species-specific venom gland transcriptomes corrects for the absence of these unique peptide sequences in databases. The integration of transcriptomics and proteomics improves the accuracy of either approach alone for venom profiling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anthony J Saviola
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, USA
| | - Stephen P Mackessy
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, Greeley, USA
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Palasuberniam P, Tan KY, Tan CH. De novo venom gland transcriptomics of Calliophis bivirgata flaviceps: uncovering the complexity of toxins from the Malayan blue coral snake. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210024. [PMID: 34616441 PMCID: PMC8476087 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0024] [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: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The Malayan blue coral snake, Calliophis bivirgata
flaviceps, is a medically important venomous snake in Southeast
Asia. However, the complexity and diversity of its venom genes remain little
explored. Methods: To address this, we applied high-throughput next-generation sequencing to
profile the venom gland cDNA libraries of C. bivirgata
flaviceps. The transcriptome was de novo
assembled, followed by gene annotation, multiple sequence alignment and
analyses of the transcripts. Results: A total of 74 non-redundant toxin-encoding genes from 16 protein families
were identified, with 31 full-length toxin transcripts. Three-finger toxins
(3FTx), primarily delta-neurotoxins and cardiotoxin-like/cytotoxin-like
proteins, were the most diverse and abundantly expressed. The major 3FTx
(Cb_FTX01 and Cb_FTX02) are highly similar to calliotoxin, a
delta-neurotoxin previously reported in the venom of C.
bivirgata. This study also revealed a conserved tyrosine
residue at position 4 of the cardiotoxin-like/cytotoxin-like protein genes
in the species. These variants, proposed as Y-type CTX-like proteins, are
similar to the H-type CTX from cobras. The substitution is conservative
though, preserving a less toxic form of elapid CTX-like protein, as
indicated by the lack of venom cytotoxicity in previous laboratory and
clinical findings. The ecological role of these toxins, however, remains
unclear. The study also uncovered unique transcripts that belong to
phospholipase A2 of Groups IA and IB, and snake venom
metalloproteinases of PIII subclass, which show sequence variations from
those of Asiatic elapids. Conclusion: The venom gland transcriptome of C. bivirgata flaviceps from
Malaysia was de novo assembled and annotated. The diversity
and expression profile of toxin genes provide insights into the biological
and medical importance of the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praneetha Palasuberniam
- Venom Research and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, University Malaysia Sabah, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choo Hock Tan
- Venom Research and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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26
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Wong KY, Tan KY, Tan NH, Gnanathasan CA, Tan CH. Elucidating the Venom Diversity in Sri Lankan Spectacled Cobra ( Naja naja) through De Novo Venom Gland Transcriptomics, Venom Proteomics and Toxicity Neutralization. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:558. [PMID: 34437429 PMCID: PMC8402536 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13080558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Inadequate effectiveness of Indian antivenoms in treating envenomation caused by the Spectacled Cobra/Indian Cobra (Naja naja) in Sri Lanka has been attributed to geographical variations in the venom composition. This study investigated the de novo venom-gland transcriptomics and venom proteomics of the Sri Lankan N. naja (NN-SL) to elucidate its toxin gene diversity and venom variability. The neutralization efficacy of a commonly used Indian antivenom product in Sri Lanka was examined against the lethality induced by NN-SL venom in mice. The transcriptomic study revealed high expression of 22 toxin genes families in NN-SL, constituting 46.55% of total transcript abundance. Three-finger toxins (3FTX) were the most diversely and abundantly expressed (87.54% of toxin gene expression), consistent with the dominance of 3FTX in the venom proteome (72.19% of total venom proteins). The 3FTX were predominantly S-type cytotoxins/cardiotoxins (CTX) and α-neurotoxins of long-chain or short-chain subtypes (α-NTX). CTX and α-NTX are implicated in local tissue necrosis and fatal neuromuscular paralysis, respectively, in envenomation caused by NN-SL. Intra-species variations in the toxin gene sequences and expression levels were apparent between NN-SL and other geographical specimens of N. naja, suggesting potential antigenic diversity that impacts antivenom effectiveness. This was demonstrated by limited potency (0.74 mg venom/ml antivenom) of the Indian polyvalent antivenom (VPAV) in neutralizing the NN-SL venom. A pan-regional antivenom with improved efficacy to treat N. naja envenomation is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kin Ying Wong
- Venom Research and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Nget Hong Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | | | - Choo Hock Tan
- Venom Research and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
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27
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Zhao HY, Sun Y, Du Y, Li JQ, Lv JG, Qu YF, Lin LH, Lin CX, Ji X, Gao JF. Venom of the Annulated Sea Snake Hydrophis cyanocinctus: A Biochemically Simple but Genetically Complex Weapon. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:548. [PMID: 34437419 PMCID: PMC8402435 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13080548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Given that the venom system in sea snakes has a role in enhancing their secondary adaption to the marine environment, it follows that elucidating the diversity and function of venom toxins will help to understand the adaptive radiation of sea snakes. We performed proteomic and de novo NGS analyses to explore the diversity of venom toxins in the annulated sea snake (Hydrophis cyanocinctus) and estimated the adaptive molecular evolution of the toxin-coding unigenes and the toxicity of the major components. We found three-finger toxins (3-FTxs), phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and cysteine-rich secretory protein (CRISP) in the venom proteome and 59 toxin-coding unigenes belonging to 24 protein families in the venom-gland transcriptome; 3-FTx and PLA2 were the most abundant families. Nearly half of the toxin-coding unigenes had undergone positive selection. The short- (i.p. 0.09 μg/g) and long-chain neurotoxin (i.p. 0.14 μg/g) presented fairly high toxicity, whereas both basic and acidic PLA2s expressed low toxicity. The toxicity of H. cyanocinctus venom was largely determined by the 3-FTxs. Our data show the venom is used by H. cyanocinctus as a biochemically simple but genetically complex weapon and venom evolution in H. cyanocinctus is presumably driven by natural selection to deal with fast-moving prey and enemies in the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Yan Zhao
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; (H.-Y.Z.); (Y.S.); (L.-H.L.)
| | - Yan Sun
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; (H.-Y.Z.); (Y.S.); (L.-H.L.)
| | - Yu Du
- Hainan Key Laboratory of Herpetological Research, College of Fisheries and Life Science, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya 572022, China; (Y.D.); (J.-G.L.)
- MOE Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation for Tropical Marine Bioresources, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya 572022, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; (J.-Q.L.); (Y.-F.Q.)
| | - Jia-Qi Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; (J.-Q.L.); (Y.-F.Q.)
| | - Jin-Geng Lv
- Hainan Key Laboratory of Herpetological Research, College of Fisheries and Life Science, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya 572022, China; (Y.D.); (J.-G.L.)
- MOE Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation for Tropical Marine Bioresources, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya 572022, China
| | - Yan-Fu Qu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; (J.-Q.L.); (Y.-F.Q.)
| | - Long-Hui Lin
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; (H.-Y.Z.); (Y.S.); (L.-H.L.)
| | - Chi-Xian Lin
- Hainan Key Laboratory of Herpetological Research, College of Fisheries and Life Science, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya 572022, China; (Y.D.); (J.-G.L.)
- MOE Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation for Tropical Marine Bioresources, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya 572022, China
| | - Xiang Ji
- MOE Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation for Tropical Marine Bioresources, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya 572022, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, China; (J.-Q.L.); (Y.-F.Q.)
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Jian-Fang Gao
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou 311121, China; (H.-Y.Z.); (Y.S.); (L.-H.L.)
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28
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Beraldo E, Coelho GR, Sciani JM, Pimenta DC. Proteomic characterization of Naja mandalayensis venom. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20200125. [PMID: 34394208 PMCID: PMC8331017 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2020-0125] [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: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Naja mandalayensis is a spitting cobra from Myanmar. To the
best of our knowledge, no studies on this venom composition have been
conducted so far. On the other hand, few envenomation descriptions state
that it elicits mainly local inflammation in the victims’ eyes, the
preferred target of this spiting cobra. Symptoms would typically include
burning and painful sensation, conjunctivitis, edema and temporary loss of
vision. Methods We have performed a liquid-chromatography (C18-RP-HPLC) mass spectrometry
(ESI-IT-TOF/MS) based approach in order to biochemically characterize
N. mandalayensis venom. Results A wide variety of three-finger toxins (cardiotoxins) and metallopeptidases
were detected. Less abundant, but still representative, were cysteine-rich
secretory proteins, L-amino-acid oxidases, phospholipases A2,
venom 5'-nucleotidase and a serine peptidase inhibitor. Other proteins were
present, but were detected in a relatively small concentration. Conclusion The present study set the basis for a better comprehension of the
envenomation from a molecular perspective and, by increasing the interest
and information available for this species, allows future venom comparisons
among cobras and their diverse venom proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emídio Beraldo
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Graduation Program in Science - Toxinology, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Juliana Mozer Sciani
- Multidisciplinary Research Laboratory, São Francisco University, Bragança Paulista, SP, Brazil
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29
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Le HQ, Nguyen NTT, Vo TNA, Van Nguyen T, Do KTN, Ho TTC, Nguyen SN, Phan XT, Nguyen DLM, Kieu DN, Ngo HD, Warrell DA. Envenoming by king cobras (Ophiophagus hannah) in Vietnam with cardiac complications and necrotizing fasciitis. Toxicon 2021; 200:127-133. [PMID: 34302855 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) bite is well-known for its potentially fatal neurotoxicity. However, fatalities still occur, despite specific antivenom and respiratory support. Cardiovascular disturbances, which have attracted little attention in published reports of O. hannah envenoming, could contribute to fatality. We present two cases of confirmed O. hannah envenoming in Southern Vietnam in which there were cardiac abnormalities including arrhythmias and electrocardiographic changes, as well as elevated markers of myocardial damage. Cardiac pacing was required. One patient developed critical multi-organ dysfunctions partly explained by extensive necrotizing fasciitis/myositis originating from an Aeromonas sobria wound infection. This resulted in rhabdomyolysis, disseminated intravascular coagulation and acute kidney injury. Specific antivenom reversed neurotoxic effects of envenoming. Additional therapeutic interventions included antibiotics, surgical debridement, continuous renal replacement therapy and therapeutic plasma exchange. Both patients eventually made full recoveries. Apart from the critical problem of rapidly evolving and severe neurotoxicity, our case reports also emphasises the risk of cardiotoxic envenoming, and the complications of an overwhelming secondary bacterial wound infection. We suggest a practical approach to diagnosis and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hung Quoc Le
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Ngan Thi Thuy Nguyen
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam; Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, 764 Vo Van Kiet, Quan 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam.
| | - Tho Ngoc Anh Vo
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Thuan Van Nguyen
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Khanh Thi Ngoc Do
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Thanh Thi Chi Ho
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Sang Ngoc Nguyen
- Department of Tropical Diseases, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Xuan Thi Phan
- Central Intensive Care Unit, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Duy Ly Minh Nguyen
- Central Intensive Care Unit, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Dung Ngoc Kieu
- Department of Arrhythmia, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - Hiep Duc Ngo
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Cho Ray Hospital, 201B Nguyen Chi Thanh, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
| | - David A Warrell
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, UK
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30
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Zhao HY, Wen L, Miao YF, Du Y, Sun Y, Yin Y, Lin CX, Lin LH, Ji X, Gao JF. Venom-gland transcriptomic, venomic, and antivenomic profiles of the spine-bellied sea snake (Hydrophis curtus) from the South China Sea. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:520. [PMID: 34238212 PMCID: PMC8268360 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07824-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A comprehensive evaluation of the -omic profiles of venom is important for understanding the potential function and evolution of snake venom. Here, we conducted an integrated multi-omics-analysis to unveil the venom-transcriptomic and venomic profiles in a same group of spine-bellied sea snakes (Hydrophis curtus) from the South China Sea, where the snake is a widespread species and might generate regionally-specific venom potentially harmful to human activities. The capacity of two heterologous antivenoms to immunocapture the H. curtus venom was determined for an in-depth evaluation of their rationality in treatment of H. curtus envenomation. In addition, a phylogenetic analysis by maximum likelihood was used to detect the adaptive molecular evolution of full-length toxin-coding unigenes. Results A total of 90,909,384 pairs of clean reads were generated via Illumina sequencing from a pooled cDNA library of six specimens, and yielding 148,121 unigenes through de novo assembly. Sequence similarity searching harvested 63,845 valid annotations, including 63,789 non-toxin-coding and 56 toxin-coding unigenes belonging to 22 protein families. Three protein families, three-finger toxins (3-FTx), phospholipase A2 (PLA2), and cysteine-rich secretory protein, were detected in the venom proteome. 3-FTx (27.15% in the transcriptome/41.94% in the proteome) and PLA2 (59.71%/49.36%) were identified as the most abundant families in the venom-gland transcriptome and venom proteome. In addition, 24 unigenes from 11 protein families were shown to have experienced positive selection in their evolutionary history, whereas four were relatively conserved throughout evolution. Commercial Naja atra antivenom exhibited a stronger capacity than Bungarus multicinctus antivenom to immunocapture H. curtus venom components, especially short neurotoxins, with the capacity of both antivenoms to immunocapture short neurotoxins being weaker than that for PLA2s. Conclusions Our study clarified the venom-gland transcriptomic and venomic profiles along with the within-group divergence of a H. curtus population from the South China Sea. Adaptive evolution of most venom components driven by natural selection appeared to occur rapidly during evolutionary history. Notably, the utility of commercial N. atra and B. multicinctus antivenoms against H. curtus toxins was not comprehensive; thus, the development of species-specific antivenom is urgently needed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-07824-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Yan Zhao
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lin Wen
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yu-Feng Miao
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yu Du
- Hainan Key Laboratory of Herpetological Research, College of Fisheries and Life Science, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya, 572022, Hainan, China.,MOE Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation for Tropical Marine Bioresources, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya, 572022, Hainan, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Sun
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yin Yin
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chi-Xian Lin
- Hainan Key Laboratory of Herpetological Research, College of Fisheries and Life Science, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya, 572022, Hainan, China.,MOE Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation for Tropical Marine Bioresources, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya, 572022, Hainan, China
| | - Long-Hui Lin
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiang Ji
- MOE Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation for Tropical Marine Bioresources, Hainan Tropical Ocean University, Sanya, 572022, Hainan, China. .,Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu, China. .,College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, 325035, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Jian-Fang Gao
- Hangzhou Key Laboratory for Animal Adaptation and Evolution, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, Zhejiang, China.
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31
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Samgina TY, Vasileva ID, Kovalev SV, Trebse P, Torkar G, Surin AK, Zubarev RA, Lebedev AT. Differentiation of Central Slovenian and Moscow populations of Rana temporaria frogs using peptide biomarkers of temporins family. Anal Bioanal Chem 2021; 413:5333-5347. [PMID: 34235566 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-021-03506-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Skin secretion represents the only means of defense for the majority of frog species. That phenomenon is based on the fact that the main components of the secretion are peptides demonstrating greatly varying types of bioactivity. They fulfill regulatory functions, fight microorganisms and may be even helpful against predators. These peptides are considered to be rather promising pharmaceuticals of future generation as according to the present knowledge microorganisms are unlikely to develop resistance to them. Mass spectrometry sequencing of these peptides is the most efficient first step of their study providing reliably their primary structures, i.e., amino acids sequence and S-S bond motif. Besides discovering new bioactive peptides, mass spectrometry appears to be an efficient tool of taxonomy studies, allowing for distinguishing not only between closely related species, but also between populations of the same species. Application of several tandem mass spectrometry tools (CID, HCD, ETD, EThcD) available with Orbitrap mass analyzer allowed us to obtain full sequence of about 60 peptides in the secretion of Slovenian population of brown ranid frog Rana temporaria. The problem of sequence inside C-terminal cycle formed by two Cys and differentiation of isomeric Leu and Ile residues was done in top-down mode without any derivatization steps. Besides general biomarkers of Rana temporaria species, Central Slovenian population of Rana temporaria demonstrates six novel temporins and one brevinin 1, which may be treated as biomarkers of that population.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Yu Samgina
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991, Moscow, Russia.
| | - I D Vasileva
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - S V Kovalev
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | - P Trebse
- University of Ljubljana Faculty of Health Sciences, Zdravstvena pot 5, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - G Torkar
- Department for Biology, Chemistry and Home Economics, University of Ljubljana Faculty of Education, Kardeljeva ploščad 16, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - A K Surin
- Pushchino Branch, Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Prospekt Nauki 6, Pushchino, Moscow, 142290, Russia
| | - R A Zubarev
- Department of Medicinal Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Molecular Biometry, Karolinska Institutet, 17177, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pharmacological & Technological Chemistry, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, 119146, Russia
| | - A T Lebedev
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991, Moscow, Russia.
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Hatakeyama DM, Jorge Tasima L, da Costa Galizio N, Serino-Silva C, Fabri Bittencourt Rodrigues C, Rodrigues Stuginski D, Stefanini Sant’Anna S, Fernandes Grego K, Tashima AK, Nishiduka ES, de Morais-Zani K, Tanaka-Azevedo AM. From birth to adulthood: An analysis of the Brazilian lancehead (Bothrops moojeni) venom at different life stages. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253050. [PMID: 34111213 PMCID: PMC8191990 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253050] [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: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The Brazilian lancehead (Bothrops moojeni) has a wide distribution in Brazil and represents a serious public health hazard. Previous works reported that the symptoms of snakebites caused by B. moojeni juveniles’ bites were mainly related to coagulation, while those caused by adults’ bites had a more prominent local damage. In this work, we analyzed the venoms of B. moojeni at different life stages to better understand the ontogeny shift in this species. Snakes were grouped by age and sex, and venom pools were formed accordingly. Compositional analyses by one-dimensional electrophoresis (1-DE), chromatography, and mass spectrometry revealed that ontogenetic changes might be mostly related to phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and metalloproteases. Regarding the venoms functional aspect, proteolytic, L-amino acid oxidase, PLA2, and coagulant in vitro activities were assayed, but only the first and the last ones showed age-related changes, with the venom of snakes up to 1 year-old displaying lower proteolytic and higher coagulant activities, while those from 2 years-old onward presented the opposite relation. The venoms of 3 years-old snakes were exceptions to the compositional and functional pattern of adults as both venoms presented profiles similar to neonates. Sex-related differences were observed in specific groups and were not age-related. In vivo experiments (median lethal dose and hemorrhagic activity) were statistically similar between neonates and adults, however we verified that the adult venom killed mice faster comparing to the neonates. All venoms were mostly recognized by the antibothropic serum and displayed similar profiles to 1-DE in western blotting. In conclusion, the Brazilian lancehead venom showed ontogenetic shift in its composition and activities. Furthermore, this change occurred in snakes from 1 to 2 years-old, and interestingly the venom pools from 3 years-old snakes had particular characteristics, which highlights the importance of comprehensive studies to better understand venom variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Miki Hatakeyama
- Laboratório de Herpetologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lídia Jorge Tasima
- Laboratório de Herpetologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Nathália da Costa Galizio
- Laboratório de Herpetologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Caroline Serino-Silva
- Laboratório de Herpetologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Caroline Fabri Bittencourt Rodrigues
- Laboratório de Herpetologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Karen de Morais-Zani
- Laboratório de Herpetologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Anita Mitico Tanaka-Azevedo
- Laboratório de Herpetologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Snake venom vascular endothelial growth factors (svVEGFs): Unravelling their molecular structure, functions, and research potential. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2021; 60:133-143. [PMID: 34090786 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2021.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key regulator of angiogenesis, a physiological process characterized by the formation of new vessels from a preexisting endothelium. VEGF has also been implicated in pathologic states, such as neoplasias, intraocular neovascular disorders, among other conditions. VEGFs are distributed in seven different families: VEGF-A, B, C, D, and PIGF (placental growth factor), which are identified in mammals; VEGF-E, which are encountered in viruses; and VEGF-F or svVEGF (snake venom VEGF) described in snake venoms. This is the pioneer review of svVEGF family, exploring its distribution among the snake venoms, molecular structure, main functions, and potential applications.
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Patra A, Mukherjee AK. Assessment of snakebite burdens, clinical features of envenomation, and strategies to improve snakebite management in Vietnam. Acta Trop 2021; 216:105833. [PMID: 33485869 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.105833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The sheer paucity of scientific documentation of herpetofauna in Vietnam and the rudimentary healthcare response to snakebite have stimulated this review. Over six decades of data culled from public data bases and search engines, have been used to assess snakebite burdens, clinical features of envenomation, and strategies for snakebite management in Vietnam. In addition, biochemical and proteomic analyses to decipher venom composition, rapid analytical techniques to be used for clinical diagnosis of snakebite in Vietnam have been discussed in detail. The assessment of efficacy, safety, and quality of commercial antivenom produced in Vietnam and improvement of antivenom production to meet the national requirement has been critically examined. It is apparent that snake bite incidence in Vietnam is exacerbated by mismatch in demand and supply of antivenom therapy, insufficient medical facilities, preference for traditional healers and poor management of clinical records. The impediments arising from geographical and species-specific variation in venom composition can be overcome by the 'Omics approach', and scientific documentation of pathophysiological manifestations post envenomation. The development of next generation of therapeutics, encouraging clinical research, novel approaches and social awareness against snakebite and its treatments have been suggested to significantly reduce the snakebite mortality and morbidity in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparup Patra
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784028, Assam, India.
| | - Ashis K Mukherjee
- Microbial Biotechnology and Protein Research Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784028, Assam, India; Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Vigyan Path Garchuk, Paschim Boragaon, Guwahati, Assam 781035, India.
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Mouchbahani-Constance S, Sharif-Naeini R. Proteomic and Transcriptomic Techniques to Decipher the Molecular Evolution of Venoms. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:154. [PMID: 33669432 PMCID: PMC7920473 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13020154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Nature's library of venoms is a vast and untapped resource that has the potential of becoming the source of a wide variety of new drugs and therapeutics. The discovery of these valuable molecules, hidden in diverse collections of different venoms, requires highly specific genetic and proteomic sequencing techniques. These have been used to sequence a variety of venom glands from species ranging from snakes to scorpions, and some marine species. In addition to identifying toxin sequences, these techniques have paved the way for identifying various novel evolutionary links between species that were previously thought to be unrelated. Furthermore, proteomics-based techniques have allowed researchers to discover how specific toxins have evolved within related species, and in the context of environmental pressures. These techniques allow groups to discover novel proteins, identify mutations of interest, and discover new ways to modify toxins for biomimetic purposes and for the development of new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Reza Sharif-Naeini
- Department of Physiology and Cell Information Systems Group, Alan Edwards Center for Research on Pain, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada;
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Liu CC, Yang YH, Hsiao YC, Wang PJ, Liu JC, Liu CH, Hsieh WC, Lin CC, Yu JS. Rapid and Efficient Enrichment of Snake Venoms from Human Plasma Using a Strong Cation Exchange Tip Column to Improve Snakebite Diagnosis. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13020140. [PMID: 33668416 PMCID: PMC7917991 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13020140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Snake envenomation is a serious public health issue in many tropical and subtropical countries. Accurate diagnosis and immediate antivenom treatment are critical for effective management. However, the venom concentration in the victims' plasma is usually low, representing one of the bottlenecks in developing clinically applicable assays for venom detection and snakebite diagnosis. In this study, we attempted to develop a simple method for rapid enrichment of venom proteins from human plasma to facilitate detection. Our experiments showed that several major protein components of both Naja atra (N. atra) and Bungarus multicinctus (B. multicinctus) venoms have higher isoelectric point (pI) values relative to high-abundance human plasma proteins and could be separated via strong cation exchange-high-performance liquid chromatography (SCX-HPLC). Based on this principle, we developed an SCX tip column-based protocol for rapid enrichment of N. atra and B. multicinctus venom proteins from human plasma. Application of liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) led to the identification of cytotoxin and beta-bungarotoxin as the major proteins enriched by the SCX tip column in each venom sample. The entire process of venom enrichment could be completed within 10-15 min. Combination of this method with our previously developed lateral flow strip assays (rapid test) significantly enhanced the sensitivity of the rapid test, mainly via depletion of the plasma protein background, as well as increase in venom protein concentration. Notably, the SCX tip column-based enrichment method has the potential to efficiently enrich other Elapidae snake venoms containing proteins with higher pI values, thereby facilitating venom detection with other assays. This simple and rapid sample preparation method should aid in improving the clinical utility of diagnostic assays for snakebite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chien-Chun Liu
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (C.-C.L.); (Y.-C.H.); (P.-J.W.)
| | - Ya-Han Yang
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Yung-Chin Hsiao
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (C.-C.L.); (Y.-C.H.); (P.-J.W.)
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Po-Jung Wang
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (C.-C.L.); (Y.-C.H.); (P.-J.W.)
| | - Jo-Chuan Liu
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Chien-Hsin Liu
- Center for Research, Diagnostics and Vaccine Development of Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei 10050, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (W.-C.H.)
| | - Wen-Chin Hsieh
- Center for Research, Diagnostics and Vaccine Development of Centers for Disease Control, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei 10050, Taiwan; (C.-H.L.); (W.-C.H.)
| | - Chih-Chuan Lin
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
| | - Jau-Song Yu
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan; (C.-C.L.); (Y.-C.H.); (P.-J.W.)
- Liver Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Linkou, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan;
- Research Center for Food and Cosmetic Safety, College of Human Ecology, Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-3-211-8800 (ext. 5171); Fax: +886-3-2118891
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Tan CH, Tan KY. De Novo Venom-Gland Transcriptomics of Spine-Bellied Sea Snake ( Hydrophis curtus) from Penang, Malaysia-Next-Generation Sequencing, Functional Annotation and Toxinological Correlation. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13020127. [PMID: 33572266 PMCID: PMC7915529 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13020127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Envenomation resulted from sea snake bite is a highly lethal health hazard in Southeast Asia. Although commonly caused by sea snakes of Hydrophiinae, each species is evolutionarily distinct and thus, unveiling the toxin gene diversity within individual species is important. Applying next-generation sequencing, this study investigated the venom-gland transcriptome of Hydrophis curtus (spine-bellied sea snake) from Penang, West Malaysia. The transcriptome was de novo assembled, followed by gene annotation and sequence analyses. Transcripts with toxin annotation were only 96 in number but highly expressed, constituting 48.18% of total FPKM in the overall transcriptome. Of the 21 toxin families, three-finger toxins (3FTX) were the most abundantly expressed and functionally diverse, followed by phospholipases A2. Lh_FTX001 (short neurotoxin) and Lh_FTX013 (long neurotoxin) were the most dominant 3FTXs expressed, consistent with the pathophysiology of envenomation. Lh_FTX001 and Lh_FTX013 were variable in amino acid compositions and predicted epitopes, while Lh_FTX001 showed high sequence similarity with the short neurotoxin from Hydrophis schistosus, supporting cross-neutralization effect of Sea Snake Antivenom. Other toxins of low gene expression, for example, snake venom metalloproteinases and L-amino acid oxidases not commonly studied in sea snake venom were also identified, enriching the knowledgebase of sea snake toxins for future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Choo Hock Tan
- Venom Research and Toxicoogy Lab, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- Correspondence:
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Lab, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
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Kazandjian TD, Petras D, Robinson SD, van Thiel J, Greene HW, Arbuckle K, Barlow A, Carter DA, Wouters RM, Whiteley G, Wagstaff SC, Arias AS, Albulescu LO, Plettenberg Laing A, Hall C, Heap A, Penrhyn-Lowe S, McCabe CV, Ainsworth S, da Silva RR, Dorrestein PC, Richardson MK, Gutiérrez JM, Calvete JJ, Harrison RA, Vetter I, Undheim EAB, Wüster W, Casewell NR. Convergent evolution of pain-inducing defensive venom components in spitting cobras. Science 2021; 371:386-390. [PMID: 33479150 PMCID: PMC7610493 DOI: 10.1126/science.abb9303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Convergent evolution provides insights into the selective drivers underlying evolutionary change. Snake venoms, with a direct genetic basis and clearly defined functional phenotype, provide a model system for exploring the repeated evolution of adaptations. While snakes use venom primarily for predation, and venom composition often reflects diet specificity, three lineages of cobras have independently evolved the ability to spit venom at adversaries. Using gene, protein, and functional analyses, we show that the three spitting lineages possess venoms characterized by an up-regulation of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) toxins, which potentiate the action of preexisting venom cytotoxins to activate mammalian sensory neurons and cause enhanced pain. These repeated independent changes provide a fascinating example of convergent evolution across multiple phenotypic levels driven by selection for defense.
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Affiliation(s)
- T D Kazandjian
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - D Petras
- Collaborative Mass Spectrometry Innovation Center, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - S D Robinson
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - J van Thiel
- Institute of Biology, University of Leiden, Leiden 2333BE, Netherlands
| | - H W Greene
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - K Arbuckle
- Department of Biosciences, College of Science, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
| | - A Barlow
- School of Science and Technology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham NG11 8NS, UK
- Molecular Ecology and Fisheries Genetics Laboratory, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - D A Carter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - R M Wouters
- Institute of Biology, University of Leiden, Leiden 2333BE, Netherlands
| | - G Whiteley
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - S C Wagstaff
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
- Research Computing Unit, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - A S Arias
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501, Costa Rica
| | - L-O Albulescu
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - A Plettenberg Laing
- Molecular Ecology and Fisheries Genetics Laboratory, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - C Hall
- Molecular Ecology and Fisheries Genetics Laboratory, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - A Heap
- Molecular Ecology and Fisheries Genetics Laboratory, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - S Penrhyn-Lowe
- Molecular Ecology and Fisheries Genetics Laboratory, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - C V McCabe
- School of Earth Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1RL, UK
| | - S Ainsworth
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - R R da Silva
- Collaborative Mass Spectrometry Innovation Center, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
- Núcleo de Pesquisa em Produtos Naturais e Sintéticos (NPPNS), Molecular Sciences Department, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - P C Dorrestein
- Collaborative Mass Spectrometry Innovation Center, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - M K Richardson
- Institute of Biology, University of Leiden, Leiden 2333BE, Netherlands
| | - J M Gutiérrez
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José 11501, Costa Rica
| | - J J Calvete
- Evolutionary and Translational Venomics Laboratory, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, 46010 Valencia, Spain
| | - R A Harrison
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK
| | - I Vetter
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - E A B Undheim
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, 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, Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway
| | - W Wüster
- Molecular Ecology and Fisheries Genetics Laboratory, School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2UW, UK
| | - N R Casewell
- Centre for Snakebite Research and Interventions, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L3 5QA, UK.
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Proteomic Investigations of Two Pakistani Naja Snake Venoms Species Unravel the Venom Complexity, Posttranslational Modifications, and Presence of Extracellular Vesicles. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12110669. [PMID: 33105837 PMCID: PMC7690644 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12110669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Latest advancement of omics technologies allows in-depth characterization of venom compositions. In the present work we present a proteomic study of two snake venoms of the genus Naja i.e., Naja naja (black cobra) and Naja oxiana (brown cobra) of Pakistani origin. The present study has shown that these snake venoms consist of a highly diversified proteome. Furthermore, the data also revealed variation among closely related species. High throughput mass spectrometric analysis of the venom proteome allowed to identify for the N. naja venom 34 protein families and for the N. oxiana 24 protein families. The comparative evaluation of the two venoms showed that N. naja consists of a more complex venom proteome than N. oxiana venom. Analysis also showed N-terminal acetylation (N-ace) of a few proteins in both venoms. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study revealing this posttranslational modification in snake venom. N-ace can shed light on the mechanism of regulation of venom proteins inside the venom gland. Furthermore, our data showed the presence of other body proteins, e.g., ankyrin repeats, leucine repeats, zinc finger, cobra serum albumin, transferrin, insulin, deoxyribonuclease-2-alpha, and other regulatory proteins in these venoms. Interestingly, our data identified Ras-GTpase type of proteins, which indicate the presence of extracellular vesicles in the venom. The data can support the production of distinct and specific anti-venoms and also allow a better understanding of the envenomation and mechanism of distribution of toxins. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD018726.
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Kinetic analysis of effects of temperature and time on the regulation of venom expression in Bungarus multicinctus. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14142. [PMID: 32839510 PMCID: PMC7445180 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70565-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Venom gland is a highly efficient venom production system to maintain their predatory arsenal. Venom toxins mRNA has been shown to increase abruptly in snake after venom expenditure, while the dynamics of venom accumulation during synthesis are poorly understood. Here, PacBio long-read sequencing, Illumina RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and label-free proteome quantification were used to investigate the composition landscape and time- and temperature-dependent dynamics changes of the Bungarus multicinctus venom gland system. Transcriptome data (19.5223 Gb) from six adult B. multicinctus tissues were sequenced using PacBio RS II to generate a reference assembly, and average 7.28 Gb of clean RNA-seq data was obtained from venom glands by Illumina sequencing. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) mainly were protein processing rather than venom toxins. Post-translational modifications provided the evidence of the significantly different proportions of toxins in the venom proteome with the changing of replenishment time and temperature, but constant of venom toxins mRNA in the venom gland transcriptome. Dynamic of toxins and genes involved in venom gland contraction suggesting the formation of the mature venom gland system would take at least 9 days. In addition, 59 toxin processing genes were identified, peptidylprolyl isomerase B of which underwent positive selection in Toxicofera. These results provide a reference for determining the extraction time of venom, production of polyclonal and monoclonal antibody for precise treatment plans of venomous snakebites, and construction of an in vitro synthesis system for snake venom protein.
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Pruksaphon K, Tan KY, Tan CH, Simsiriwong P, Gutiérrez JM, Ratanabanangkoon K. An in vitro α-neurotoxin-nAChR binding assay correlates with lethality and in vivo neutralization of a large number of elapid neurotoxic snake venoms from four continents. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008581. [PMID: 32857757 PMCID: PMC7535858 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop an in vitro assay for use in place of in vivo assays of snake venom lethality and antivenom neutralizing potency. A novel in vitro assay has been developed based on the binding of post-synaptically acting α-neurotoxins to nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR), and the ability of antivenoms to prevent this binding. The assay gave high correlation in previous studies with the in vivo murine lethality tests (Median Lethal Dose, LD50), and the neutralization of lethality assays (Median Effective Dose, ED50) by antisera against Naja kaouthia, Naja naja and Bungarus candidus venoms. Here we show that, for the neurotoxic venoms of 20 elapid snake species from eight genera and four continents, the in vitro median inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) for α-neurotoxin binding to purified nAChR correlated well with the in vivo LD50s of the venoms (R2 = 0.8526, p < 0.001). Furthermore, using this assay, the in vitro ED50s of a horse pan-specific antiserum against these venoms correlated significantly with the corresponding in vivo murine ED50s, with R2 = 0.6896 (p < 0.01). In the case of four elapid venoms devoid or having a very low concentration of α-neurotoxins, no inhibition of nAChR binding was observed. Within the philosophy of 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) in animal testing, the in vitro α-neurotoxin-nAChR binding assay can effectively substitute the mouse lethality test for toxicity and antivenom potency evaluation for neurotoxic venoms in which α-neurotoxins predominate. This will greatly reduce the number of mice used in toxicological research and antivenom production laboratories. The simpler, faster, cheaper and less variable in vitro assay should also expedite the development of pan-specific antivenoms against various medically important snakes in many parts of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kritsada Pruksaphon
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choo Hock Tan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - José María Gutiérrez
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Kavi Ratanabanangkoon
- Laboratory of Immunology, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Lertwanakarn T, Suntravat M, Sanchez EE, Boonhoh W, Solaro RJ, Wolska BM, Martin JL, de Tombe PP, Tachampa K. Suppression of cardiomyocyte functions by β-CTX isolated from the Thai king cobra ( Ophiophagus hannah) venom via an alternative method. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2020; 26:e20200005. [PMID: 32742278 PMCID: PMC7375408 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2020-0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Beta-cardiotoxin (β-CTX), the three-finger toxin isolated from king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) venom, possesses β-blocker activity as indicated by its negative chronotropy and its binding property to both β-1 and β-2 adrenergic receptors and has been proposed as a novel β-blocker candidate. Previously, β-CTX was isolated and purified by FPLC. Here, we present an alternative method to purify this toxin. In addition, we tested its cytotoxicity against different mammalian muscle cell types and determined the impact on cardiac function in isolated cardiac myocyte so as to provide insights into the pharmacological action of this protein. Methods β-CTX was isolated from the crude venom of the Thai king cobra using reverse-phased and cation exchange HPLC. In vitro cellular viability MTT assays were performed on mouse myoblast (C2C12), rat smooth muscle (A7r5), and rat cardiac myoblast (H9c2) cells. Cell shortening and calcium transient dynamics were recorded on isolated rat cardiac myocytes over a range of β-CTX concentration. Results Purified β-CTX was recovered from crude venom (0.53% w/w). MTT assays revealed 50% cytotoxicity on A7r5 cells at 9.41 ± 1.14 µM (n = 3), but no cytotoxicity on C2C12 and H9c2 cells up to 114.09 µM. β-CTX suppressed the extend of rat cardiac cell shortening in a dose-dependent manner; the half-maximal inhibition concentration was 95.97 ± 50.10 nM (n = 3). In addition, the rates of cell shortening and re-lengthening were decreased in β-CTX treated myocytes concomitant with a prolongation of the intracellular calcium transient decay, indicating depression of cardiac contractility secondary to altered cardiac calcium homeostasis. Conclusion We present an alternative purification method for β-CTX from king cobra venom. We reveal cytotoxicity towards smooth muscle and depression of cardiac contractility by this protein. These data are useful to aid future development of pharmacological agents derived from β-CTX.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuchakorn Lertwanakarn
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Montamas Suntravat
- National Natural Toxins Research Center, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX, USA.,Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX, USA
| | - Elda E Sanchez
- National Natural Toxins Research Center, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX, USA.,Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Kingsville, TX, USA
| | - Worakan Boonhoh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - R John Solaro
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Beata M Wolska
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jody L Martin
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Pieter P de Tombe
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kittipong Tachampa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Ratanabanangkoon K, Tan KY, Pruksaphon K, Klinpayom C, Gutiérrez JM, Quraishi NH, Tan CH. A pan-specific antiserum produced by a novel immunization strategy shows a high spectrum of neutralization against neurotoxic snake venoms. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11261. [PMID: 32647261 PMCID: PMC7347863 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66657-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenomation is a neglected tropical disease of high mortality and morbidity largely due to insufficient supply of effective and affordable antivenoms. Snake antivenoms are mostly effective against the venoms used in their production. It is thus crucial that effective and affordable antivenom(s) with wide para-specificity, capable of neutralizing the venoms of a large number of snakes, be produced. Here we studied the pan-specific antiserum prepared previously by a novel immunization strategy involving the exposure of horses to a ‘diverse toxin repertoire’ consisting of 12 neurotoxic Asian snake toxin fractions/ venoms from six species. This antiserum was previously shown to exhibit wide para-specificity by neutralizing 11 homologous and 16 heterologous venoms from Asia and Africa. We now show that the antiserum can neutralize 9 out of 10 additional neurotoxic venoms. Altogether, 36 snake venoms belonging to 10 genera from 4 continents were neutralized by the antiserum. Toxin profiles previously generated using proteomic techniques of these 36 venoms identified α-neurotoxins, β-neurotoxins, and cytotoxins as predominant toxins presumably neutralized by the antiserum. The bases for the wide para-specificity of the antiserum are discussed. These findings indicate that it is feasible to generate antivenoms of wide para-specificity against elapid neurotoxic venoms from different regions in the world and raises the possibility of a universal neurotoxic antivenom. This should reduce the mortality resulting from neurotoxic snakebite envenomation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavi Ratanabanangkoon
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama 6 Road, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand. .,Laboratory of Immunology, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok, 10210, Thailand.
| | - Kae Yi Tan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia
| | - Kritsada Pruksaphon
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Chaiya Klinpayom
- Veterinary Hospital, The Veterinary and Remount Department, The Royal Thai Army, Nakorn Pathom, 73000, Thailand
| | - José María Gutiérrez
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Naeem H Quraishi
- Anti Snake Venom/Anti Rabies Serology Laboratory, People's University of Medical and Health Sciences for Women, Nawabshah, Pakistan
| | - Choo Hock Tan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia.
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Hia YL, Tan KY, Tan CH. Comparative venom proteomics of banded krait (Bungarus fasciatus) from five geographical locales: Correlation of venom lethality, immunoreactivity and antivenom neutralization. Acta Trop 2020; 207:105460. [PMID: 32278639 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The banded krait, Bungarus fasciatus is a medically important venomous snake in Asia. The wide distribution of this species in Southeast Asia and southern China indicates potential geographical variation of the venom which may impact the clinical management of snakebite envenomation. This study investigated the intraspecific venom variation of B. fasciatus from five geographical locales through a venom decomplexing proteomic approach, followed by toxinological and immunological studies. The venom proteomes composed of a total of 9 toxin families, comprising 22 to 31 proteoforms at varying abundances. The predominant proteins were phospholipase A2 (including beta-bungarotoxin), Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor (KSPI) and three-finger toxins (3FTx), which are toxins that cause neurotoxicity and lethality. The venom lethality varied with geographical origins of the snake, with intravenous median lethal doses (LD50) ranging from 0.45-2.55 µg/g in mice. The Thai Bungarus fasciatus monovalent antivenom (BFMAV) demonstrated a dose-dependent increasing immunological binding activity toward all venoms; however, its in vivo neutralization efficacy varied vastly with normalized potency values ranging from 3 to 28 mg/g, presumably due to the compositional differences of dominant proteins in the different venoms. The findings support that antivenom use should be optimized in different geographical areas. The development of a pan-regional antivenom may be a more sustainable solution for the treatment of snakebite envenomation.
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45
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Modahl CM, Roointan A, Rogers J, Currier K, Mackessy SP. Interspecific and intraspecific venom enzymatic variation among cobras (Naja sp. and Ophiophagus hannah). Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2020; 232:108743. [PMID: 32194156 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2020.108743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The genera Ophiophagus and Naja comprise part of a clade of snakes referred to as cobras, dangerously venomous front-fanged snakes in the family Elapidae responsible for significant human mortality and morbidity throughout Asia and Africa. We evaluated venom enzyme variation for eleven cobra species and three N. kaouthia populations using SDS-PAGE venom fingerprinting and numerous enzyme assays. Acetylcholinesterase and PLA2 activities were the most variable between species, and PLA2 activity was significantly different between Malaysian and Thailand N. kaouthia populations. Venom metalloproteinase activity was low and significantly different among most species, but levels were identical for N. kaouthia populations; minor variation in venom L-amino acid oxidase and phosphodiesterase activities were seen between cobra species. Naja siamensis venom lacked the α-fibrinogenolytic activity common to other cobra venoms. In addition, venom from N. siamensis had no detectable metalloproteinase activity and exhibited an SDS-PAGE profile with reduced abundance of higher mass proteins. Venom profiles from spitting cobras (N. siamensis, N. pallida, and N. mossambica) exhibited similar reductions in higher mass proteins, suggesting the evolution of venoms of reduced complexity and decreased enzymatic activity among spitting cobras. Generally, the venom proteomes of cobras show highly abundant three-finger toxin diversity, followed by large quantities of PLA2s. However, PLA2 bands and activity were very reduced for N. haje, N. annulifera and N. nivea. Venom compositionalenzy analysis provides insight into the evolution, diversification and distribution of different venom phenotypes that complements venomic data, and this information is critical for the development of effective antivenoms and snakebite treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra M Modahl
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th St., Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543, Singapore
| | - Amir Roointan
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, 14 Science Drive 4, 117543, Singapore; Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Jessica Rogers
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th St., Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA
| | - Katelyn Currier
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th St., Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA
| | - Stephen P Mackessy
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Colorado, 501 20th St., Greeley, CO 80639-0017, USA.
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Tan KY, Ng TS, Bourges A, Ismail AK, Maharani T, Khomvilai S, Sitprija V, Tan NH, Tan CH. Geographical variations in king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah) venom from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and China: On venom lethality, antivenom immunoreactivity and in vivo neutralization. Acta Trop 2020; 203:105311. [PMID: 31862461 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The wide distribution of king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah), a medically important venomous snake in Asia could be associated with geographical variation in the toxicity and antigenicity of the venom. This study investigated the lethality of king cobra venoms (KCV) from four geographical locales (Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, China), and the immunological binding as well as in vivo neutralization activities of three antivenom products (Thai Ophiophagus hannah monovalent antivenom, OHMAV; Indonesian Serum Anti Bisa Ular, SABU; Chinese Naja atra monovalent antivenom, NAMAV) toward the venoms. The Indonesian and Chinese KCV were more lethal (median lethal dose, LD50 ~0.5 μg/g) than those from Malaysia and Thailand (LD50 ~1.0 μg/g). The antivenoms, composed of F(ab)'2, were variably immunoreactive toward the KCV from all locales, with OHMAV exhibited the highest immunological binding activity. In mice, OHMAV neutralized the neurotoxic lethality of Thai KCV most effectively (normalized potency = 118 mg venom neutralized per g antivenom) followed by Malaysian, Indonesian and Chinese KCV. In comparison, the hetero-specific SABU was remarkably less potent by at least 6 to10 folds, whereas NAMAV appeared to be non-effective. The finding supports that a specific king cobra antivenom is needed for the effective treatment of king cobra envenomation in each region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kae Yi Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Tzu Shan Ng
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Aymeric Bourges
- Venom Research & Toxicology Lab, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Khaldun Ismail
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Tri Maharani
- Department of Emergency, Daha Husada Hospital, Kediri, East Java Province, Indonesia
| | - Sumana Khomvilai
- Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Visith Sitprija
- Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nget Hong Tan
- Protein and Interactomics Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choo Hock Tan
- Venom Research & Toxicology Lab, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Raaymakers C, Stijlemans B, Martin C, Zaman S, Ballet S, Martel A, Pasmans F, Roelants K. A New Family of Diverse Skin Peptides from the Microhylid Frog Genus Phrynomantis. Molecules 2020; 25:E912. [PMID: 32085597 PMCID: PMC7070584 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25040912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
A wide range of frogs produce skin poisons composed of bioactive peptides for defence against pathogens, parasites and predators. While several frog families have been thoroughly screened for skin-secreted peptides, others, like the Microhylidae, have remained mostly unexplored. Previous studies of microhylids found no evidence of peptide secretion, suggesting that this defence adaptation was evolutionarily lost. We conducted transcriptome analyses of the skins of Phrynomantis bifasciatus and Phrynomantis microps, two African microhylid species long suspected to be poisonous. Our analyses reveal 17 evolutionary related transcripts that diversified from to those of cytolytic peptides found in other frog families. The 19 peptides predicted to be processed from these transcripts, named phrynomantins, show a striking structural diversity that is distinct from any previously identified frog skin peptide. Functional analyses of five phrynomantins confirm the loss of a cytolytic function and the absence of insecticidal or proinflammatory activity, suggesting that they represent an evolutionary transition to a new, yet unknown function. Our study shows that peptides have been retained in the defence poison of at least one microhylid lineage and encourages research on similarly understudied taxa to further elucidate the diversity and evolution of skin defence molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constantijn Raaymakers
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene, Belgium; (C.R.); (S.Z.)
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; (A.M.); (F.P.)
| | - Benoit Stijlemans
- Unit of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene, Belgium;
- Myeloid Cell Immunology Lab, VIB Centre for Inflammation Research, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Martin
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Department of Bio-engineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene, Belgium; (C.M.); (S.B.)
| | - Shabnam Zaman
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene, Belgium; (C.R.); (S.Z.)
| | - Steven Ballet
- Research Group of Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Department of Bio-engineering Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene, Belgium; (C.M.); (S.B.)
| | - An Martel
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; (A.M.); (F.P.)
| | - Frank Pasmans
- Wildlife Health Ghent, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; (A.M.); (F.P.)
| | - Kim Roelants
- Amphibian Evolution Lab, Biology Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene, Belgium; (C.R.); (S.Z.)
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Modahl CM, Brahma RK, Koh CY, Shioi N, Kini RM. Omics Technologies for Profiling Toxin Diversity and Evolution in Snake Venom: Impacts on the Discovery of Therapeutic and Diagnostic Agents. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2019; 8:91-116. [PMID: 31702940 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-021419-083626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Snake venoms are primarily composed of proteins and peptides, and these toxins have developed high selectivity to their biological targets. This makes venoms interesting for exploration into protein evolution and structure-function relationships. A single venom protein superfamily can exhibit a variety of pharmacological effects; these variations in activity originate from differences in functional sites, domains, posttranslational modifications, and the formations of toxin complexes. In this review, we discuss examples of how the major venom protein superfamilies have diversified, as well as how newer technologies in the omics fields, such as genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, can be used to characterize both known and unknown toxins.Because toxins are bioactive molecules with a rich diversity of activities, they can be useful as therapeutic and diagnostic agents, and successful examples of toxin applications in these areas are also reviewed. With the current rapid pace of technology, snake venom research and its applications will only continue to expand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra M Modahl
- Protein Science Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Singapore, Singapore 119077; , ,
| | - Rajeev Kungur Brahma
- Protein Science Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Singapore, Singapore 119077; , ,
| | - Cho Yeow Koh
- Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 119077;
| | - Narumi Shioi
- Protein Science Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Singapore, Singapore 119077; , , .,Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka 814-0180, Japan;
| | - R Manjunatha Kini
- Protein Science Lab, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Singapore, Singapore 119077; , ,
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Comparative proteomes, immunoreactivities and neutralization of procoagulant activities of Calloselasma rhodostoma (Malayan pit viper) venoms from four regions in Southeast Asia. Toxicon 2019; 169:91-102. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2019.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Revised: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Medina-Santos R, Guerra-Duarte C, de Almeida Lima S, Costal-Oliveira F, Alves de Aquino P, Oliveira do Carmo A, Ferreyra CB, Gonzalez-Kozlova EE, Kalapothakis E, Chávez-Olórtegui C. Diversity of astacin-like metalloproteases identified by transcriptomic analysis in Peruvian Loxosceles laeta spider venom and in vitro activity characterization. Biochimie 2019; 167:81-92. [PMID: 31476328 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2019.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Loxosceles spiders are found in almost all countries of South America. In Peru, Loxosceles laeta species is the main responsible for the accidents caused by poisonous animals, being known as "killer spiders", due to the large number of fatal accidents observed. Astacin-like metalloproteases, named LALPs (Loxosceles astacin-like metalloproteases) are highly expressed in Loxosceles spiders venom gland. These proteases may be involved in hemorrhage and venom spreading, being relevant to the envenoming proccess. Thus, the aim of this work was to analyze Peruvian L. laeta venom gland transcripts using bioinformatics tools, focusing on LALPs. A cDNA library from Peruvian L. laeta venom glands was constructed and sequenced by MiSeq (Illumina) sequencer. After assembly, the resulting sequences were annotated, seeking out for similarity with previously described LALPs. Nine possible LALPs isoforms from Peruvian L. laeta venom were identified and the results were validated by in silico and in vitro experiments. This study contributes to a better understanding of the molecular diversity of Loxosceles venom and provide insights about the action of LALPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raíssa Medina-Santos
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil; Genetic, Ecology and Evolution Department, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - César Bonilla Ferreyra
- Univesidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Facultad de Odontología, Lima, Peru; Instituto Nacional de Salud, Lima, Peru
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