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Hagemann CL, Macedo AJ, Tasca T. Therapeutic potential of antimicrobial peptides against pathogenic protozoa. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:122. [PMID: 38311672 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08133-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Protozoal infections cause significant morbidity and mortality in humans and animals. The use of several antiprotozoal drugs is associated with serious adverse effects and resistance development, and drugs that are more effective are urgently needed. Microorganisms, mammalian cells and fluids, insects, and reptiles are sources of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) that act against pathogenic microorganisms; these AMPs have been widely studied as a promising alternative therapeutic option to conventional antibiotics, aiming to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant pathogens. One advantage of AMP molecules is their adaptability, as they can be easily fine-tuned for broad-spectrum or targeted activity by changing the amino acid residues in their sequence. Consequently, these variations in structural and physicochemical properties can alter the antimicrobial activities of AMPs and decrease resistance development. This article presents an overview of peptide activities against amebiasis, giardiasis, trichomoniasis, Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, malaria, and toxoplasmosis. AMPs and their analogs demonstrate great potential as therapeutics, with potent and selective activity, when compared with commercially available drugs, and hold the potential to act as new scaffolds for the development of novel anti-protozoal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corina Lobato Hagemann
- Faculdade de Farmácia and Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Avenida Ipiranga, 2752, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Alexandre José Macedo
- Faculdade de Farmácia and Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Avenida Ipiranga, 2752, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90610-000, Brazil
| | - Tiana Tasca
- Faculdade de Farmácia and Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Avenida Ipiranga, 2752, Porto Alegre, RS, CEP 90610-000, Brazil.
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Fernández-García M, Mesquita I, Ferreira C, Araújo M, Saha B, Rey-Stolle MF, García A, Silvestre R, Barbas C. Leishmania donovani Induces Multiple Dynamic Responses in the Metabolome Associated with Amastigote Differentiation and Maturation Inside the Human Macrophage. J Proteome Res 2023. [PMID: 37339249 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.2c00845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Leishmania donovani infection of macrophages drives profound changes in the metabolism of both the host macrophage and the parasite, which undergoes different phases of development culminating in replication and propagation. However, the dynamics of this parasite-macrophage cometabolome are poorly understood. In this study, a multiplatform metabolomics pipeline combining untargeted, high-resolution CE-TOF/MS and LC-QTOF/MS with targeted LC-QqQ/MS was followed to characterize the metabolome alterations induced in L. donovani-infected human monocyte-derived macrophages from different donors at 12, 36, and 72 h post-infection. The set of alterations known to occur during Leishmania infection of macrophages, substantially expanded in this investigation, characterized the dynamics of the glycerophospholipid, sphingolipid, purine, pentose phosphate, glycolytic, TCA, and amino acid metabolism. Our results showed that only citrulline, arginine, and glutamine exhibited constant trends across all studied infection time points, while most metabolite alterations underwent a partial recovery during amastigote maturation. We determined a major metabolite response pointing to an early induction of sphingomyelinase and phospholipase activities and correlated with amino acid depletion. These data represent a comprehensive overview of the metabolome alterations occurring during promastigote-to-amastigote differentiation and maturation of L. donovani inside macrophages that contributes to our understanding of the relationship between L. donovani pathogenesis and metabolic dysregulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Fernández-García
- Centro de Metabolómica y Bioanálisis (CEMBIO), Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28660 Boadilla del Monte, España
- Departamento de Ciencias Médicas Básicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28660 Boadilla del Monte, España
| | - Inês Mesquita
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Carolina Ferreira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Marta Araújo
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Bhaskar Saha
- National Centre for Cell Science, 411007 Pune, India
| | - Ma Fernanda Rey-Stolle
- Centro de Metabolómica y Bioanálisis (CEMBIO), Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28660 Boadilla del Monte, España
| | - Antonia García
- Centro de Metabolómica y Bioanálisis (CEMBIO), Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28660 Boadilla del Monte, España
| | - Ricardo Silvestre
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
- ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909 Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Coral Barbas
- Centro de Metabolómica y Bioanálisis (CEMBIO), Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Urbanización Montepríncipe, 28660 Boadilla del Monte, España
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Antiprotozoal Effect of Snake Venoms and Their Fractions: A Systematic Review. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10121632. [PMID: 34959587 PMCID: PMC8707848 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10121632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Protozoal infection is a lingering public health issue of great concern, despite efforts to produce drugs and vaccines against it. Recent breakthrough research has discovered alternative antiprotozoal agents encompassing the use of snake venoms and their components to cure these infections. This study collated the existing literature to examine the antiprotozoal effect of snake venoms and their fractions. Methods: We conducted a systematic review following the PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed and Embase databases were searched from their inception until 13 October 2021. Articles were screened at the title, abstract and full-text phases. Some additional studies were obtained through the manual search process. Results: We identified 331 studies via the electronic database and manual searches, of which 55 reporting the antiprotozoal effect of snake venoms and their components were included in the review. Around 38% of studies examined the effect of whole crude venoms, and a similar percentage evaluated the effect of a proportion of enzymatic phospholipase A2 (PLA2). In particular, this review reports around 36 PLA2 activities and 29 snake crude venom activities. We also report the notable phenomenon of synergism with PLA2 isoforms of Bothrops asper. Importantly, limited attention has been given so far to the antiprotozoal efficacies of metalloproteinase, serine protease and three-finger toxins, although these venom components have been identified as significant components of the dominant venom families. Conclusion: This study highlights the impact of snake venoms and their fractions on controlling protozoal infections and suggests the need to examine further the effectiveness of other venom components, such as metalloproteinase, serine protease and three-finger toxins. Future research questions in this field must be redirected toward synergism in snake venom components, based on pharmacological usage and in the context of toxicology. Ascertaining the effects of snake venoms and their components on other protozoal species that have not yet been studied is imperative.
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Teixeira SC, da Silva MS, Gomes AAS, Moretti NS, Lopes DS, Ferro EAV, Rodrigues VDM. Panacea within a Pandora's box: the antiparasitic effects of phospholipases A 2 (PLA 2s) from snake venoms. Trends Parasitol 2021; 38:80-94. [PMID: 34364805 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic diseases affect millions of individuals worldwide, mainly in low-income regions. There is no cure for most of these diseases, and the treatment relies on drugs that have side effects and lead to drug resistance, emphasizing the urgency to find new treatments. Snake venom has been gaining prominence as a rich source of molecules with antiparasitic potentials, such as phospholipases A2 (PLA2s). Here, we compile the findings involving PLA2s with antiparasitic activities against helminths, Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, and trypanosomatids. We indicate their molecular features, highlighting the possible antiparasitic mechanisms of action of these proteins. We also demonstrate interactions between PLA2s and some parasite membrane components, shedding light on potential targets for drug design that may provide better treatment for the illnesses caused by parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Cota Teixeira
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia (UFU), MG, Brazil.
| | - Marcelo Santos da Silva
- DNA Replication and Repair Laboratory (DRRL), Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Biosciences Institute, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Nilmar Silvio Moretti
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Patógenos (LBMP), Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Daiana Silva Lopes
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Health, Anísio Teixeira Campus, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Vitória da Conquista, BA, Brazil
| | - Eloisa Amália Vieira Ferro
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Science, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia (UFU), MG, Brazil
| | - Veridiana de Melo Rodrigues
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Animal Toxins, Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
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The Effect of Naja naja oxiana Snake Venom Against Leishmania tropica Confirmed by Advanced Assays. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:475-486. [PMID: 33159262 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-020-00301-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to explore the activity of Naja naja oxiana venom on Leishmania tropica and its modes of action. METHODS Different fractions of Naja naja oxiana venom (NNOV) were prepared and characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography. The superior component, fraction k (FK) was selected. The activity of the fraction was assessed using advanced assays. RESULTS Interleukin (IL)-12, TNF-α and iNOS gene expression as the indicators of Th1 significantly increased. In contrast, the level of IL-10, as the marker of T helper 2 substantially decreased (p < 0.001). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection showed a significant increase (p < 0.001) after treatment with different concentrations of NNOV-FK, unlike arginase (L-ARG) activity which showed a significant reduction (p < 0.001). The NNOV-FK showed significant lethal activity on the L. tropica stages. CONCLUSION The findings demonstrated that NNOV-FK represented a strong leishmanicidal activity on L. tropica stages. The major modes of NNOV-FK action are multidimensional, which perceives the induction of a synergistic response and upregulation of the immune-modulatory role towards Th1 response against L. tropica stages as well as apoptotic and anti-metabolic action as a model drug to generate ROS, block the polyamine synthesis and lead to parasite death.
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Garza-Tovar TF, Sacriste-Hernández MI, Juárez-Durán ER, Arenas R. An overview of the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Fac Rev 2021; 9:28. [PMID: 33659960 PMCID: PMC7886081 DOI: 10.12703/r/9-28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by species of Leishmania, with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, such as cutaneous, visceral, and mucocutaneous presentations. Many drugs are used for its treatment, and a current effective one is a pentavalent antimonial, especially in developing countries. In this review, we discuss recent proposed therapies as well as their side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eder R Juárez-Durán
- Mycology Section, "Dr. Manuel Gea Gonzalez" General Hospital, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Roberto Arenas
- Mycology Section, "Dr. Manuel Gea Gonzalez" General Hospital, Mexico City, Mexico
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Katz S, Barbiéri CL, Soler FPM, Soares AM, Chavantes MC, Zamuner SR. Effect of Isolated Proteins from Crotalus Durissus Terrificus Venom on Leishmania (Leishmania) Amazonensis-Infected Macrophages. Protein Pept Lett 2021; 27:718-724. [PMID: 31994997 DOI: 10.2174/0929866527666200129152954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis are parasitic diseases characterized by skin manifestations. In Brazil, Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis is one of the etiological agents of cutaneous leishmaniasis. The therapeutic arsenal routinely employed to treat infected patients is unsatisfactory, especially for pentavalent antimonials, as they are often highly toxic, poorly tolerated and of variable effectiveness. This study aimed to evaluate in vitro the leishmanicidal activity of toxins isolated from Crotalus durissus terrificus venom as a new approach for the treatment of leishmaniasis. METHODS The comparative effects of crotamine, crotoxin, gyrotoxin, convulxin and PLA2 on bone marrow-derived macrophages infected with L. (L.) amazonensis as well as the release of TGF-β from the treated macrophages were studied. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Crotamine had the strongest inhibitory effect on parasite growth rate (IC50: 25.65±0.52 μg/mL), while convulxin showed the weakest inhibitory effect (IC50: 52.7±2.21 μg/mL). In addition, TGF-β was significantly reduced after the treatment with all toxins evaluated. CONCLUSION The Crotalus durissus terrificus toxins used in this study displayed significant activity against L. (L.) amazonensis, indicating that all of them could be a potential alternative for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Katz
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 235, 01504-000, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Clara Lúcia Barbiéri
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Paula Martins Soler
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 235, 01504-000, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Cristina Chavantes
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 235, 01504-000, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Stella Regina Zamuner
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Nove de Julho (UNINOVE), Rua Vergueiro, 235, 01504-000, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Mendes B, Almeida JR, Vale N, Gomes P, Gadelha FR, Da Silva SL, Miguel DC. Potential use of 13-mer peptides based on phospholipase and oligoarginine as leishmanicidal agents. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2019; 226:108612. [PMID: 31454702 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2019.108612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Phospholipase A2 toxins present in snake venoms interact with biological membranes and serve as structural models for the design of small peptides with anticancer, antibacterial and antiparasitic properties. Oligoarginine peptides are capable of increasing cell membrane permeability (cell penetrating peptides), and for this reason are interesting delivery systems for compounds of pharmacological interest. Inspired by these two families of bioactive molecules, we have synthesized two 13-mer peptides as potential antileishmanial leads gaining insights into structural features useful for the future design of more potent peptides. The peptides included p-Acl, reproducing a natural segment of a Lys49 PLA2 from Agkistrodon contortrix laticinctus snake venom, and its p-AclR7 analogue where all seven lysine residues were replaced by arginines. Both peptides were active against promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania (L.) amazonensis and L. (L.) infantum, while displaying low cytotoxicity for primary murine macrophages. Spectrofluorimetric studies suggest that permeabilization of the parasite's cell membrane is the probable mechanism of action of these biomolecules. Relevantly, the engineered peptide p-AclR7 was more active in both life stages of Leishmania and induced higher rates of ethidium bromide incorporation than its native template p-Acl. Taken together, the results suggest that short peptides based on phospholipase toxins are potential scaffolds for development of antileishmanial candidates. Moreover, specific amino acid substitutions, such those herein employed, may enhance the antiparasitic action of these cationic peptides, encouraging their future biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Mendes
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José R Almeida
- Universidad Regional Amazónica Ikiam, Km 7 Via Muyuna, Tena, Napo, Ecuador
| | - Nuno Vale
- Laboratório de Farmacologia, Departamento de Ciências do Medicamento, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Portugal; IPATIMUP/Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Universidade do Porto, Portugal
| | - Paula Gomes
- LAQV/REQUIMTE, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Portugal
| | - Fernanda R Gadelha
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Tecidual, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Saulo L Da Silva
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad de Cuenca, Cuenca/Azuay, Ecuador.; Centro de Innovación de la Salud - EUS/EP, Cuenca/Azuay, Ecuador
| | - Danilo C Miguel
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Sabiá Júnior EF, Menezes LFS, de Araújo IFS, Schwartz EF. Natural Occurrence in Venomous Arthropods of Antimicrobial Peptides Active against Protozoan Parasites. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E563. [PMID: 31557900 PMCID: PMC6832604 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11100563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Arthropoda is a phylum of invertebrates that has undergone remarkable evolutionary radiation, with a wide range of venomous animals. Arthropod venom is a complex mixture of molecules and a source of new compounds, including antimicrobial peptides (AMPs). Most AMPs affect membrane integrity and produce lethal pores in microorganisms, including protozoan pathogens, whereas others act on internal targets or by modulation of the host immune system. Protozoan parasites cause some serious life-threatening diseases among millions of people worldwide, mostly affecting the poorest in developing tropical regions. Humans can be infected with protozoan parasites belonging to the genera Trypanosoma, Leishmania, Plasmodium, and Toxoplasma, responsible for Chagas disease, human African trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, malaria, and toxoplasmosis. There is not yet any cure or vaccine for these illnesses, and the current antiprotozoal chemotherapeutic compounds are inefficient and toxic and have been in clinical use for decades, which increases drug resistance. In this review, we will present an overview of AMPs, the diverse modes of action of AMPs on protozoan targets, and the prospection of novel AMPs isolated from venomous arthropods with the potential to become novel clinical agents to treat protozoan-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Ferreira Sabiá Júnior
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil.
| | - Luis Felipe Santos Menezes
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil.
| | - Israel Flor Silva de Araújo
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil.
| | - Elisabeth Ferroni Schwartz
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70910-900, Brazil.
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Dietz JDC, Almeida DAD, Cintra LC, Oliveira BFRD, Magalhães MR, Jesuíno RSA. EVALUATION OF THE ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF Crotalus durissus terrificus CRUDE VENOM. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/1809-6891v19e-51322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract Snake venoms are recognized as a promising source of pharmacologically active substances and are potentially useful for the development of new antimicrobial drugs. This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial activity of the venom from the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus against several bacteria. Antibacterial activity was determined by using the plate microdilution method and the activity on the bacterial envelope structure was screened by using the crystal violet assay. The proteins in crude venom were separated by electrophoresis and characterized regarding their proteolytic activity. C. d. terrificus venom exhibited antimicrobial action against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. MIC values were defined for Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 (62.5 µg/mL), Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 (125 µg/mL), and Micrococcus luteus ATCC 9341 (≤500 µg/mL). For Salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium ATCC 14028 and Corynebacterium glutamicum ATCC 13032, the decrease in bacterial growth was not detected visually, but was statistically significant. The crystal violet assay demonstrated that the crude venom increased bacterial cell permeability and the secreted protein profile agreed with previous reports. The results suggest that the proteins with lytic activity against bacteria in C. d. terrificus venom deserve further characterization as they may offer reinforcements to the weak therapeutic arsenal used to fight microbial multidrug resistance.
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Bordon MLAC, Laurenti MD, Ribeiro SP, Toyama MH, Toyama DDO, Passero LFD. Effect of phospholipase A 2 inhibitors during infection caused by Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2018; 24:21. [PMID: 30181736 PMCID: PMC6112134 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-018-0156-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Lipid metabolites play an important role in parasite differentiation and virulence. Studies have revealed that Leishmania sp. uses prostaglandins to evade innate barriers, thus enabling the parasites to survive inside immune cells. Despite the role of the enzyme Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) in prostaglandins production, few studies have investigated the role of parasite PLA2 during the interaction between L. (L.) amazonensis and the host (in vitro and in vivo) immune cells. Methods In the present work, the leishmanicidal effect of PLA2 inhibitors, methyl arachidonyl fluorophosphonate (MAFP), bromoenol lactone (BEL) and aristolochic acid (AA) were investigated in vitro (promastigote and intracellular amastigote forms of L. (L.) amazonensis) and during in vivo infection using BALB/c mice. Results The aforementioned inhibitors were deleterious to promastigote and amastigote forms of the L. (L.) amazonensis and were non-toxic to peritoneal macrophages from BALB/c mice. L. (L.) amazonensis-infected BALB/c mice treated with the inhibitor BEL presented decreased lesion size and skin parasitism; however, BEL treatment induced hepatotoxicity in BALB/c mice. Conclusions Results presented herein suggested that PLA2 inhibitors altered L. (L.) amazonensis viability. In spite of liver toxicity, treatment with BEL was the most selective compound in vitro, as well in vivo, resulting in lower skin parasitism in the infected mice. These findings corroborate the role of PLA2 in parasite virulence and maintenance in vertebrate hosts, and suggest that molecules structurally related to BEL should be considered when planning compounds against Leishmania sp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria L A C Bordon
- 1Laboratory of Pathology of Infectious Diseases (LIM-50), Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 455, São Paulo, SP CEP 01246903 Brazil.,3São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, São Vicente, Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n, 11330-900 São Vicente, SP Brazil
| | - Márcia D Laurenti
- 1Laboratory of Pathology of Infectious Diseases (LIM-50), Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 455, São Paulo, SP CEP 01246903 Brazil
| | - Susan Pereira Ribeiro
- 2Pathology Department, Case Western Reserve University, 2103 Cornell Rd, room 5503, Cleveland, OH 44106 USA
| | - Marcos H Toyama
- 3São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, São Vicente, Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n, 11330-900 São Vicente, SP Brazil
| | - Daniela de O Toyama
- 4School of Dentistry, Camilo Castelo Branco University (Unicastelo), Rua Carolina Fonseca, 584, São Paulo, SP CEP 08230-030 Brazil
| | - Luiz Felipe D Passero
- 3São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Biosciences, São Vicente, Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n, 11330-900 São Vicente, SP Brazil
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12
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan M. Akef
- National Organization for Research and Control of Biologicals (NORCB), Giza, Egypt
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13
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Crotoxin stimulates an M1 activation profile in murine macrophages during Leishmania amazonensis infection. Parasitology 2017. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182017000944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYAmerican tegumentary leishmaniasis is caused by different species of Leishmania. This protozoan employs several mechanisms to subvert the microbicidal activity of macrophages and, given the limited efficacy of current therapies, the development of alternative treatments is essential. Animal venoms are known to exhibit a variety of pharmacological activities, including antiparasitic effects. Crotoxin (CTX) is the main component of Crotalus durissus terrificus venom, and it has several biological effects. Nevertheless, there is no report of CTX activity during macrophage – Leishmania interactions. Thus, the main objective of this study was to evaluate whether CTX has a role in macrophage M1 polarization during Leishmania infection murine macrophages, Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes and L. amazonensis-infected macrophages were challenged with CTX. MTT [3-(4,5dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrasodium bromide] toxicity assays were performed on murine macrophages, and no damage was observed in these cells. Promastigotes, however, were affected by treatment with CTX (IC50 = 22·86 µg mL−1) as were intracellular amastigotes. Macrophages treated with CTX also demonstrated increased reactive oxygen species production. After they were infected with Leishmania, macrophages exhibited an increase in nitric oxide production that converged into an M1 activation profile, as suggested by their elevated production of the cytokines interleukin-6 and tumour necrosis factor-α and changes in their morphology. CTX was able to reverse the L. amazonensis-mediated inhibition of macrophage immune responses and is capable of polarizing macrophages to the M1 profile, which is associated with a better prognosis for cutaneous leishmaniasis treatment.
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Santos-Filho NA, Santos CT. Alpha-type phospholipase A 2 inhibitors from snake blood. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2017; 23:19. [PMID: 28344595 PMCID: PMC5364564 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-017-0110-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
It is of popular and scientific knowledge that toxins from snake venom (among them the PLA2 and myotoxins) are neutralized by various compounds, such as antibodies and proteins purified from animal blood. Venomous and nonvenomous snakes have PLA2 inhibitory proteins, called PLIs, in their blood serum. One hypothesis that could explain the presence of these PLIs in the serum of venomous snakes would be self-protection against the enzymes of their own venom, which eventually could reach the circulatory system. However, the presence of PLIs in non-venomous snakes suggests that their physiological role might not be restricted to protection against PLA2 toxins, but could be extended to other functions, as in the innate immune system and local regulation of PLA2s. The present study aimed to review the currently available literature on PLA2 and myotoxin alpha inhibitors present in snake plasma, thus helping to improve the research on these molecules. Furthermore, this review includes current information regarding the mechanism of action of these inhibitors in an attempt to better understand their application, and proposes the use of these molecules as new models in snakebite therapy. These molecules may help in the neutralization of different types of phospholipases A2 and myotoxins, complementing the conventional serum therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norival A. Santos-Filho
- Institute of Chemistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP – Univ Estadual Paulista), Araraquara, SP Brazil
| | - Claudia T. Santos
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP – Univ Estadual Paulista), Araraquara, SP Brazil
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Khunsap S, Khow O, Buranapraditkun S, Suntrarachun S, Puthong S, Boonchang S. Anticancer properties of phospholipase A2 from Daboia siamensis venom on human skin melanoma cells. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2016; 22:7. [PMID: 26884744 PMCID: PMC4754985 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-016-0061-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is a major component of the Daboia siamensis venom, which is able to hydrolyse the membrane of various cells. For this reason, the activity of PLA2 was investigated regarding its pharmaceutical properties. This study was conducted to explore the pharmacological properties of a PLA2 from Daboia siamensis (dssPLA2) venom on human skin melanoma cell line (SK-MEL-28). Methods dssPLA2 was isolated by ion exchange and gel filtration columns. Various concentrations of dssPLA2 were investigated for cytotoxic activity and inhibition of migration on SK-MEL-28 cells. Cell death analysis, mRNA expression levels of Notch I-III and BRAF V600E genes were also determined. Results dssPLA2 exhibited cytotoxicity on SK-MEL-28 for 24 and 72 h as compared with untreated cells. However, it had no toxic effects on CCD-1064sk cells under the same conditions. dssPLA2 (0.25 and 0.5 μg/mL) induced 17.16 and 30.60 % of apoptosis, while activated 6.53 and 7.05 % of necrotic cells. dssPLA2 at 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2 μg/mL could inhibit migration on SK-MEL-28 cells for 24 h by 31.06, 41.66, 50 and 68.75 %, respectively. The action of dssPLA2 significantly reduced the levels of Notch I and BRAF V600E genes expression on SK-MEL-28 cells compared with untreated cells at 72 h. Conclusions This study indicates that dssPLA2 had potential effects of apoptosis, necrosis, cytotoxicity and inhibition of migration on SK-MEL-28 cells. dssPLA2 could possibly be a selective agent that targets cancer cells without affecting normal cells. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s40409-016-0061-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchitra Khunsap
- Research and Development, Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Orawan Khow
- Research and Development, Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Supranee Buranapraditkun
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cellular Immunology Laboratory Allergy and Clinical Immunology Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Sunutcha Suntrarachun
- Research and Development, Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Songchan Puthong
- Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Chulalongkorn University Institute, Building 3, Phayathai Road, Patumwan, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Supatsorn Boonchang
- Research and Development, Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
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Pereira AV, de Barros G, Pinto EG, Tempone AG, Orsi RDO, Dos Santos LD, Calvi S, Ferreira RS, Pimenta DC, Barraviera B. Melittin induces in vitro death of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum by triggering the cellular innate immune response. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2016; 22:1. [PMID: 26752985 PMCID: PMC4706697 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-016-0055-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Apis mellifera venom, which has already been recommended as an alternative anti-inflammatory treatment, may be also considered an important source of candidate molecules for biotechnological and biomedical uses, such as the treatment of parasitic diseases. METHODS Africanized honeybee venom from Apis mellifera was fractionated by RP-C18-HPLC and the obtained melittin was incubated with promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes of Leishmania (L.) infantum. Cytotoxicity to mice peritoneal macrophages was evaluated through mitochondrial oxidative activity. The production of anti- and pro-inflammatory cytokines, NO and H2O2 by macrophages was determined. RESULTS Promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes were susceptible to melittin (IC50 28.3 μg.mL(-1) and 1.4 μg.mL(-1), respectively), but also showed mammalian cell cytotoxicity with an IC50 value of 5.7 μg.mL(-1). Uninfected macrophages treated with melittin increased the production of IL-10, TNF-α, NO and H2O2. Infected melittin-treated macrophages increased IL-12 production, but decreased the levels of IL-10, TNF-α, NO and H2O2. CONCLUSIONS The results showed that melittin acts in vitro against promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes of Leishmania (L.) infantum. Furthermore, they can act indirectly on intracellular amastigotes through a macrophage immunomodulatory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Vieira Pereira
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Gustavo de Barros
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Erika Gracielle Pinto
- Department of Parasitology, Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo, SP Brazil ; Laboratory of Protozoology, Institute for Tropical Medicine, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP Brazil
| | | | - Ricardo de Oliveira Orsi
- Department of Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Husbandry, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil ; Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Rua José Barbosa de Barros, 1780, 18610-307 Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Lucilene Delazari Dos Santos
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil ; Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Rua José Barbosa de Barros, 1780, 18610-307 Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Sueli Calvi
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil ; Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Rua José Barbosa de Barros, 1780, 18610-307 Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | - Rui Seabra Ferreira
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil ; Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Rua José Barbosa de Barros, 1780, 18610-307 Botucatu, SP Brazil
| | | | - Benedito Barraviera
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu, SP Brazil ; Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), Rua José Barbosa de Barros, 1780, 18610-307 Botucatu, SP Brazil
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