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Geng H, Li R, Teng L, Yu C, Wang W, Gao K, Li A, Liu S, Xing R, Yu H, Li P. Exploring the Efficacy of Hydroxybenzoic Acid Derivatives in Mitigating Jellyfish Toxin-Induced Skin Damage: Insights into Protective and Reparative Mechanisms. Mar Drugs 2024; 22:205. [PMID: 38786596 PMCID: PMC11122885 DOI: 10.3390/md22050205] [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: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The escalation of jellyfish stings has drawn attention to severe skin reactions, underscoring the necessity for novel treatments. This investigation assesses the potential of hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives, specifically protocatechuic acid (PCA) and gentisic acid (DHB), for alleviating Nemopilema nomurai Nematocyst Venom (NnNV)-induced injuries. By employing an in vivo mouse model, the study delves into the therapeutic efficacy of these compounds. Through a combination of ELISA and Western blot analyses, histological examinations, and molecular assays, the study scrutinizes the inflammatory response, assesses skin damage and repair mechanisms, and investigates the compounds' ability to counteract venom effects. Our findings indicate that PCA and DHB significantly mitigate inflammation by modulating critical cytokines and pathways, altering collagen ratios through topical application, and enhancing VEGF and bFGF levels. Furthermore, both compounds demonstrate potential in neutralizing NnNV toxicity by inhibiting metalloproteinases and phospholipase-A2, showcasing the viability of small-molecule compounds in managing toxin-induced injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Geng
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Rongfeng Li
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Lichao Teng
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chunlin Yu
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Wenjie Wang
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kun Gao
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Aoyu Li
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Song Liu
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Ronge Xing
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Huahua Yu
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Pengcheng Li
- CAS and Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Experimental Marine Biology, Center for Ocean Mega-Science, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266071, China; (H.G.)
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), No. 1 Wenhai Road, Qingdao 266237, China
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Barroso RA, Ramos L, Moreno H, Antunes A. Evolutionary Analysis of Cnidaria Small Cysteine-Rich Proteins (SCRiPs), an Enigmatic Neurotoxin Family from Stony Corals and Sea Anemones (Anthozoa: Hexacorallia). Toxins (Basel) 2024; 16:75. [PMID: 38393153 PMCID: PMC10892658 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16020075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Cnidarians (corals, sea anemones, and jellyfish) produce toxins that play central roles in key ecological processes, including predation, defense, and competition, being the oldest extant venomous animal lineage. Cnidaria small cysteine-rich proteins (SCRiPs) were the first family of neurotoxins detected in stony corals, one of the ocean's most crucial foundation species. Yet, their molecular evolution remains poorly understood. Moreover, the lack of a clear classification system has hindered the establishment of an accurate and phylogenetically informed nomenclature. In this study, we extensively surveyed 117 genomes and 103 transcriptomes of cnidarians to identify orthologous SCRiP gene sequences. We annotated a total of 168 novel putative SCRiPs from over 36 species of stony corals and 12 species of sea anemones. Phylogenetic reconstruction identified four distinct SCRiP subfamilies, according to strict discrimination criteria based on well-supported monophyly with a high percentage of nucleotide and amino acids' identity. Although there is a high prevalence of purifying selection for most SCRiP subfamilies, with few positively selected sites detected, a subset of Acroporidae sequences is influenced by diversifying positive selection, suggesting potential neofunctionalizations related to the fine-tuning of toxin potency. We propose a new nomenclature classification system relying on the phylogenetic distribution and evolution of SCRiPs across Anthozoa, which will further assist future proteomic and functional research efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Alexandre Barroso
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208 Porto, Portugal; (R.A.B.); (L.R.); (H.M.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Luana Ramos
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208 Porto, Portugal; (R.A.B.); (L.R.); (H.M.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Hugo Moreno
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208 Porto, Portugal; (R.A.B.); (L.R.); (H.M.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Agostinho Antunes
- CIIMAR/CIMAR, Interdisciplinary Centre of Marine and Environmental Research, University of Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208 Porto, Portugal; (R.A.B.); (L.R.); (H.M.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
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Lecaudey LA, Netzer R, Wibberg D, Busche T, Bloecher N. Metatranscriptome analysis reveals the putative venom toxin repertoire of the biofouling hydroid Ectopleura larynx. Toxicon 2024; 237:107556. [PMID: 38072317 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Cnidarians thriving in biofouling communities on aquaculture net pens represent a significant health risk for farmed finfish due to their stinging cells. The toxins coming into contact with the fish, during net cleaning, can adversely affect their behavior, welfare, and survival, with a particularly serious health risk for the gills, causing direct tissue damage such as formation of thrombi and increasing risks of secondary infections. The hydroid Ectopleura larynx is one of the most common fouling organisms in Northern Europe. However, despite its significant economic, environmental, and operational impact on finfish aquaculture, biological information on this species is scarce and its venom composition has never been investigated. In this study, we generated a whole transcriptome of E. larynx, and identified its putative expressed venom toxin proteins (predicted toxin proteins, not functionally characterized) based on in silico transcriptome annotation mining and protein sequence analysis. The results uncovered a broad and diverse repertoire of putative toxin proteins for this hydroid species. Its toxic arsenal appears to include a wide and complex selection of toxin proteins, covering a large panel of potential biological functions that play important roles in envenomation. The putative toxins identified in this species, such as neurotoxins, GTPase toxins, metalloprotease toxins, ion channel impairing toxins, hemorrhagic toxins, serine protease toxins, phospholipase toxins, pore-forming toxins, and multifunction toxins may cause various major deleterious effects in prey, predators, and competitors. These results provide valuable new insights into the venom composition of cnidarians, and venomous marine organisms in general, and offer new opportunities for further research into novel and valuable bioactive molecules for medicine, agronomics and biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roman Netzer
- SINTEF Ocean, Aquaculture Department, Brattørkaia 17c, 7010, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Daniel Wibberg
- Center for Biotechnology (CeBiTec), Bielefeld University, Universitätsstraße 25, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Tobias Busche
- Center for Biotechnology (CeBiTec), Bielefeld University, Universitätsstraße 25, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany; Medical School OWL, Bielefeld University, Morgenbreede 1, 33615, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Nina Bloecher
- SINTEF Ocean, Aquaculture Department, Brattørkaia 17c, 7010, Trondheim, Norway
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Thaikruea L. The Dermatological Effects of Box Jellyfish Envenomation in Stinging Victims in Thailand: Underestimated Severity. Wilderness Environ Med 2023; 34:462-472. [PMID: 37550104 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2023.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The dermatological effects of box jellyfish envenomation among stinging victims in Thailand are not well reported, particularly concerning chronic effects. For first aid, different recommendations indicate the necessity for the removal of tentacles in life-threatening situations. This study aimed to describe the dermatological effects of box jellyfish envenomation and propose recommendations regarding first aid for victims in urgent care or life-threatening situations. METHODS Surveillance systems and Toxic Jellyfish Networks were established to improve detection and investigation. The networks investigated all severe victims of jellyfish envenomation. A retrospective study was conducted, and victims of stinging by box jellyfish investigated from 1999 to 2021 were included. RESULTS One hundred and twenty-four victims were recorded. The majority of victims were males (55%), tourists (69%), and Thai nationals (49%). Direct contact had more severe consequences than indirect contact. Dermatological effects included edema, erythematous caterpillar track-like rash, blistering, bullae, papular eruption, necrosis, digital gangrene, recurrent dermatitis, dermal hypersensitivity, numbness, lichenification, hyperpigmentation, keloids, and scarring. Suffering and healing continued from several weeks to many years. Victims with multiple-tentacle box jellyfish stings had papular eruptions and greater severity of skin issues. All fatally envenomed victims collapsed within a few minutes and received incorrect/no first aid. The proposed first aid for life-threatening box jellyfish stings is continuous irrigation of the wound with vinegar for at least 30 s and initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation if there is no respiration or heartbeat. Tentacles often detach spontaneously, and removal is not always necessary, thus saving time. CONCLUSIONS The findings provide input for improving diagnosis and treatment guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakkana Thaikruea
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
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El Mhadi M, El Ouafi A. Palpebral jellyfish sting: A case report. J Fr Ophtalmol 2023; 46:e303-e305. [PMID: 37481445 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfo.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M El Mhadi
- Ophthalmology department, Moulay Ismail Military Hospital, Meknes, Morocco.
| | - A El Ouafi
- Ophthalmology department, Moulay Ismail Military Hospital, Meknes, Morocco
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Hérnández-Elizárraga VH, Vega-Tamayo JE, Olguín-López N, Ibarra-Alvarado C, Rojas-Molina A. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses reveal the first occurrence of diverse toxin groups in Millepora alcicornis. J Proteomics 2023; 288:104984. [PMID: 37536522 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2023.104984] [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: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Millepora alcicornis is a reef-forming cnidarian widely distributed in the Mexican Caribbean. Millepora species or "fire corals" inflict a painful stinging reaction in humans when touched. Even though hundreds of organic and polypeptide toxins have been characterized from sea anemones and jellyfish, there are few reports regarding the diversity of toxins synthesized by fire corals. Here, based on transcriptomic analysis of M. alcicornis, several predicted proteins that show amino acid sequence similarity to toxins were identified, including neurotoxins, metalloproteases, hemostasis-impairing toxins, serin proteases, cysteine-rich venom proteins, phospholipases, complement system-impairing toxins, phosphodiesterases, pore-forming toxins, and L-aminoacid oxidases. The soluble nematocyst proteome of this organism was shown to induce hemolytic, proteolytic, and phospholipase A2 effects by gel zymography. Protein bands or spots on 1D- and 2D-PAGE gels corresponding to zones of hemolytic and enzymatic activities were excised, subjected to in-gel digestion with trypsin, and analyzed by mass spectrometry. These proteins exhibited sequence homology to PLA2s, metalloproteinases, pore-forming toxins, and neurotoxins, such as actitoxins and CrTX-A. The complex array of venom-related transcripts that were identified in M. alcicornis, some of which are first reported in "fire corals", provide novel insight into the structural richness of Cnidarian toxins and their distribution among species. SIGNIFICANCE: Marine organisms are a promising source of bioactive compounds with valuable contributions in diverse fields such as human health, pharmaceuticals, and industrial application. Currently, not much attention has been paid to the study of fire corals, which possess a variety of molecules that exhibit diverse toxic effects and therefore have great pharmaceutical and biotechnological potential. The isolation and identification of novel marine-derived toxins by classical approaches are time-consuming and have low yields. Thus, next-generation strategies, like base-'omics technologies, are essential for the high-throughput characterization of venom compounds such as those synthesized by fire corals. This study moves the field forward because it provides new insights regarding the first occurrence of diverse toxin groups in Millepora alcicornis. The findings presented here will contribute to the current understanding of the mechanisms of action of Millepora toxins. This research also reveals important information related to the potential role of toxins in the defense and capture of prey mechanisms and for designing appropriate treatments for fire coral envenomation. Moreover, due to the lack of information on the taxonomic identification of Millepora, the insights presented here can advise the taxonomic classification of the species of this genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor Hugo Hérnández-Elizárraga
- Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Cerro de las Campanas S/N, C.P. 76010 Querétaro, Qro, Mexico; University of Minnesota Genomics Center, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | | | - Norma Olguín-López
- Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Cerro de las Campanas S/N, C.P. 76010 Querétaro, Qro, Mexico; División Química y Energías Renovables, Universidad Tecnológica de San Juan del Río. Av La Palma No 125 Vista Hermosa, 76800 San Juan del Río, Qro, Mexico.
| | - César Ibarra-Alvarado
- Laboratorio de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Cerro de las Campanas S/N, C.P. 76010 Querétaro, Qro, Mexico
| | - Alejandra Rojas-Molina
- Laboratorio de Investigación Química y Farmacológica de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Cerro de las Campanas S/N, C.P. 76010 Querétaro, Qro, Mexico.
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Thumtecho S, Suteparuk S, Sitprija V. Pulmonary involvement from animal toxins: the cellular mechanisms. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2023; 29:e20230026. [PMID: 37727535 PMCID: PMC10506740 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2023-0026] [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: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Venomous animals and their venom have always been of human interest because, despite species differences, coevolution has made them capable of targeting key physiological components of our bodies. Respiratory failure from lung injury is one of the serious consequences of envenomation, and the underlying mechanisms are rarely discussed. This review aims to demonstrate how toxins affect the pulmonary system through various biological pathways. Herein, we propose the common underlying cellular mechanisms of toxin-induced lung injury: interference with normal cell function and integrity, disruption of normal vascular function, and provocation of excessive inflammation. Viperid snakebites are the leading cause of envenomation-induced lung injury, followed by other terrestrial venomous animals such as scorpions, spiders, and centipedes. Marine species, particularly jellyfish, can also inflict such injury. Common pulmonary manifestations include pulmonary edema, pulmonary hemorrhage, and exudative infiltration. Severe envenomation can result in acute respiratory distress syndrome. Pulmonary involvement suggests severe envenomation, thus recognizing these mechanisms and manifestations can aid physicians in providing appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suthimon Thumtecho
- Division of Toxicology, Department of Medicine, Chulalongkorn
University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society,
Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Suchai Suteparuk
- Division of Toxicology, Department of Medicine, Chulalongkorn
University, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society,
Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Visith Sitprija
- Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute and King Chulalongkorn Memorial
Hospital, the Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, Thailand
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Peña M, Mesas C, Perazzoli G, Martínez R, Porres JM, Doello K, Prados J, Melguizo C, Cabeza L. Antiproliferative, Antioxidant, Chemopreventive and Antiangiogenic Potential of Chromatographic Fractions from Anemonia sulcata with and without Its Symbiont Symbiodinium in Colorectal Cancer Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11249. [PMID: 37511009 PMCID: PMC10379856 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Anemonia sulcata may be a source of marine natural products (MNPs) due to the antioxidant and antitumor activity of its crude homogenates shown in vitro in colon cancer cells. A bioguided chromatographic fractionation assay of crude Anemonia sulcata homogenates with and without its symbiont Symbiodinium was performed to characterize their bioactive composition and further determine their biological potential for the management of colorectal cancer (CRC). The 20% fractions retained the in vitro antioxidant activity previously reported for homogenates. As such, activation of antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes was also evaluated. The 40% fractions showed the greatest antiproliferative activity in T84 cells, synergistic effects with 5-fluoruracil and oxaliplatin, overexpression of apoptosis-related proteins, cytotoxicity on tumorspheres, and antiangiogenic activity. The predominantly polar lipids and toxins tentatively identified in the 20% and 40% fractions could be related to their biological activity in colon cancer cells although further characterizations of the active fractions are necessary to isolate and purify the bioactive compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Peña
- Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Cristina Mesas
- Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Gloria Perazzoli
- Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Rosario Martínez
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INyTA), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
| | - Jesús M Porres
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INyTA), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
| | - Kevin Doello
- Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
- Medical Oncology Service, Virgen de las Nieves Hospital, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Jose Prados
- Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Consolación Melguizo
- Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
| | - Laura Cabeza
- Institute of Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine (IBIMER), Center of Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Biosanitary Institute of Granada (ibs.GRANADA), SAS-University of Granada, 18014 Granada, Spain
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Yang K, Klausner JD. Case Report: Unusual Bullous Reaction to Physalia physalis Venom after Recurrent Envenomation. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2023; 109:201-204. [PMID: 37160271 PMCID: PMC10324016 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Physalia physalis, often referred to colloquially as Portuguese man-of-war or bluebottle jellyfish, is a jellyfish-like organism found in tropical and subtropical areas of the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans. Most often, envenomation by P. physalis tentacles results in painful but self-resolving epidermal stings. We report on two clinic visits of a patient who suffered from worsening reactions to recurrent P. physalis envenomation. The first clinical episode involved urticaria and severe pruritus that was worse than the pruritus the patient had experienced upon envenomation in the past. The second episode involved an unusual bullous reaction. Further study into the compounds present in P. physalis venom may help elucidate the mechanism of the present case and other abnormal reactions to envenomation. Patients and providers who care for patients at risk for recurrent stings (e.g., surfers, fishermen) should be cognizant of the potential for worsening reactions to envenomation. Further study into therapies such as oral antihistamines and Aloe vera gel may uncover additional appropriate treatments for symptomatic relief of P. physalis envenomation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Yang
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jeffrey D. Klausner
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
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Lauritano C, Galasso C. Microbial Interactions between Marine Microalgae and Fungi: From Chemical Ecology to Biotechnological Possible Applications. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:md21050310. [PMID: 37233504 DOI: 10.3390/md21050310] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemical interactions have been shown to regulate several marine life processes, including selection of food sources, defense, behavior, predation, and mate recognition. These chemical communication signals have effects not only at the individual scale, but also at population and community levels. This review focuses on chemical interactions between marine fungi and microalgae, summarizing studies on compounds synthetized when they are cultured together. In the current study, we also highlight possible biotechnological outcomes of the synthetized metabolites, mainly for human health applications. In addition, we discuss applications for bio-flocculation and bioremediation. Finally, we point out the necessity of further investigating microalgae-fungi chemical interactions because it is a field still less explored compared to microalga-bacteria communication and, considering the promising results obtained until now, it is worthy of further research for scientific advancement in both ecology and biotechnology fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Lauritano
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Via Acton n. 55, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Christian Galasso
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Calabria Marine Centre, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, C. da Torre Spaccata, 87071 Amendolara, Italy
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11
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Thaikruea L. Differences in clinical manifestations between cases stung by single-tentacle and multiple-tentacle box jellyfish over two decades. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16374. [PMID: 37251904 PMCID: PMC10208881 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16374] [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: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
There are no routine laboratory investigations to identify jellyfish species and toxins in Thailand. Distinguishing clinical manifestation is important for medical care and also recommendations for the population. This study aimed to describe the clinical manifestations of box jellyfish stinging cases and determine differences between cases stung by single- (SBJ) and multiple-tentacle box jellyfish (MBJ). This retrospective study was conducted in Thailand. Data regarding injuries and deaths eligible for inclusion were those pertinent to stinging by box jellyfish under the National Surveillance System of Injuries and Deaths Caused by Toxic Jellyfish. All cases detected by the Toxic Jellyfish Networks were investigated. There were 29 SBJ, 92 MBJ, and 3 SBJ/or MBJ cases in the period 1999 to 2021. In about half of the cases in each group had abnormal heart rates and about one-third had respiratory distress. The SBJ group had a high proportion of pain in the other parts of the body (38.2%), abdominal cramps (13.8%), fatigue (24.1%), anxiety/agitation (24.1%), and there was no death. The MBJ group had a high proportion of severe pain and severe burning pain at the site of the wounds (44.3%), swelling/edema at the affected organs/areas (46.8%), collapse/near-collapse (30.4%), worse outcomes (9.8%), and 9.8% deaths. In comparison to the MBJ group, the SBJ group were 13.4 times (95% Confidence Intervals of Relative Risk: 4.9, 36.6) and 6.1 times (1.2, 31.4) more likely to have pain in other parts of the body and abdominal cramps, subsequently. MBJ group was 1.8 times (1.4, 2.2) more likely to have pain at wounds than the SBJ group. Some initial symptoms might make health professionals misdiagnose SBJ as MBJ stinging. The Irukandji-like syndrome that appeared later among SBJ cases is the clue for correct diagnosis. These results are useful for the improvement of diagnosis, medical care, and surveillance.
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12
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Li J, Wang Q, Zou S, Song J, Zhang P, Wang F, Huang Y, He Q, Zhang L. Protective Effects of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) against the Jellyfish Nemopilema nomurai Envenoming. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:283. [PMID: 37104221 PMCID: PMC10142270 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15040283] [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: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Jellyfish stings are the most common marine animal injuries worldwide, with approximately 150 million envenomation cases annually, and the victims may suffer from severe pain, itching, swelling, inflammation, arrhythmias, cardiac failure, or even death. Consequently, identification of effective first aid reagents for jellyfish envenoming is urgently needed. Here, we found that the polyphenol epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) markedly antagonized the hemolytic toxicity, proteolytic activity, and cardiomyocyte toxicity of the jellyfish Nemopilema nomurai venom in vitro and could prevent and treat systemic envenoming caused by N. nomurai venom in vivo. Moreover, EGCG is a natural plant active ingredient and widely used as a food additive without toxic side effects. Hence, we suppose that EGCG might be an effective antagonist against systemic envenoming induced by jellyfish venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- Department of Marine Biomedicine and Polar Medicine, Naval Special Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China; (J.L.)
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Department of Marine Biomedicine and Polar Medicine, Naval Special Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China; (J.L.)
| | - Shuaijun Zou
- Department of Marine Biomedicine and Polar Medicine, Naval Special Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China; (J.L.)
| | - Juxingsi Song
- Department of Marine Biomedicine and Polar Medicine, Naval Special Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China; (J.L.)
| | - Peipei Zhang
- Department of Marine Biological Injury and Dermatology, Naval Special Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200052, China
| | - Fan Wang
- Department of Marine Biomedicine and Polar Medicine, Naval Special Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China; (J.L.)
| | - Yichao Huang
- Department of Marine Biomedicine and Polar Medicine, Naval Special Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China; (J.L.)
| | - Qian He
- The Third Affiliated Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Liming Zhang
- Department of Marine Biomedicine and Polar Medicine, Naval Special Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China; (J.L.)
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13
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Cadar E, Pesterau AM, Sirbu R, Negreanu-Pirjol BS, Tomescu CL. Jellyfishes—Significant Marine Resources with Potential in the Wound-Healing Process: A Review. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:md21040201. [PMID: 37103346 PMCID: PMC10142942 DOI: 10.3390/md21040201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The wound-healing process is a significant area of interest in the medical field, and it is influenced by both external and patient-specific factors. The aim of this review paper is to highlight the proven wound-healing potential of the biocompounds found in jellyfish (such as polysaccharide compounds, collagen, collagen peptides and amino acids). There are aspects of the wound-healing process that can benefit from polysaccharides (JSPs) and collagen-based materials, as these materials have been shown to limit exposure to bacteria and promote tissue regeneration. A second demonstrated benefit of jellyfish-derived biocompounds is their immunostimulatory effects on growth factors such as (TNF-α), (IFN-γ) and (TGF), which are involved in wound healing. A third benefit of collagens and polysaccharides (JSP) is their antioxidant action. Aspects related to chronic wound care are specifically addressed, and within this general theme, molecular pathways related to tissue regeneration are explored in depth. Only distinct varieties of jellyfish that are specifically enriched in the biocompounds involved in these pathways and live in European marine habitats are presented. The advantages of jellyfish collagens over mammalian collagens are highlighted by the fact that jellyfish collagens are not considered transmitters of diseases (spongiform encephalopathy) or various allergic reactions. Jellyfish collagen extracts stimulate an immune response in vivo without inducing allergic complications. More studies are needed to explore more varieties of jellyfish that can be exploited for their biocomponents, which may be useful in wound healing.
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14
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Zare A, Afshar A, Khoradmehr A, Baghban N, Mohebbi G, Barmak A, Daneshi A, Bargahi A, Nabipour I, Almasi-Turk S, Arandian A, Zibaii MI, Latifi H, Tamadon A. Chemical Compositions and Experimental and Computational Modeling of the Anticancer Effects of Cnidocyte Venoms of Jellyfish Cassiopea andromeda and Catostylus mosaicus on Human Adenocarcinoma A549 Cells. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:md21030168. [PMID: 36976217 PMCID: PMC10057638 DOI: 10.3390/md21030168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, major attention is being paid to curing different types of cancers and is focused on natural resources, including oceans and marine environments. Jellyfish are marine animals with the ability to utilize their venom in order to both feed and defend. Prior studies have displayed the anticancer capabilities of various jellyfish. Hence, we examined the anticancer features of the venom of Cassiopea andromeda and Catostylus mosaicus in an in vitro situation against the human pulmonary adenocarcinoma (A549) cancer cell line. The MTT assay demonstrated that both mentioned venoms have anti-tumoral ability in a dose-dependent manner. Western blot analysis proved that both venoms can increase some pro-apoptotic factors and reduce some anti-apoptotic molecules that lead to the inducing of apoptosis in A549 cells. GC/MS analysis demonstrated some compounds with biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer activities. Molecular docking and molecular dynamic showed the best position of each biologically active component on the different death receptors, which are involved in the process of apoptosis in A549 cells. Ultimately, this study has proven that both venoms of C. andromeda and C. mosaicus have the capability to suppress A549 cells in an in vitro condition and they might be utilized in order to design and develop brand new anticancer agents in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afshin Zare
- Student Research Committee, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 75, Iran
| | - Alireza Afshar
- Student Research Committee, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 75, Iran
- PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz 73, Iran
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 73, Iran
| | - Arezoo Khoradmehr
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 73, Iran
| | - Neda Baghban
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 73, Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Mohebbi
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 73, Iran
| | - Alireza Barmak
- Food Lab, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 73, Iran
| | - Adel Daneshi
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 73, Iran
| | - Afshar Bargahi
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 73, Iran
| | - Iraj Nabipour
- The Persian Gulf Marine Biotechnology Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 73, Iran
| | - Sahar Almasi-Turk
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr 73, Iran
- Correspondence: (S.A.-T.); (A.T.); Tel.: +98-77-3332-0657 (S.A.-T.); +98-21-2842-6122 (A.T.)
| | - Alireza Arandian
- Laser and Plasma Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran 11, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Latifi
- Laser and Plasma Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran 11, Iran
- Department of Physics, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran 11, Iran
| | - Amin Tamadon
- PerciaVista R&D Co., Shiraz 73, Iran
- Correspondence: (S.A.-T.); (A.T.); Tel.: +98-77-3332-0657 (S.A.-T.); +98-21-2842-6122 (A.T.)
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15
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The Case for Octopus Consciousness: Valence. NEUROSCI 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/neurosci3040047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Octopuses may demonstrate perceptual richness, neural unity, temporality, and finally, valence or affective evaluation, as the neural basis for consciousness. Octopuses attach a positive valence to food as ‘specializing generalists’ with long-term learning and flexible choices. They value shelter, yet modify, adapt and even transport it where necessary. They attach a negative valence to what may be described as pain, monitoring and protecting the damaged area and learning to associate locations with pain relief. Finally and surprisingly, octopuses attach a negative value to uncertainty so that they explore their environment before exploiting certain aspects of it and even exhibit motor play. This series of four papers, culminating in the present one, demonstrates in detail why the Cambridge Declaration of Consciousness has suggested octopuses might have the substrate for consciousness, although it is likely not similar to or as complex as that shown by ‘higher’ vertebrate lineages.
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16
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Righi S, Forti L, Simonini R, Ferrari V, Prevedelli D, Mucci A. Novel Natural Compounds and Their Anatomical Distribution in the Stinging Fireworm Hermodice carunculata (Annelida). Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20090585. [PMID: 36135774 PMCID: PMC9504318 DOI: 10.3390/md20090585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence in the field of bioprospection fosters the necessity of studying poorly investigated poisonous marine invertebrates to expand knowledge on animal venom biology. Among marine annelids, amphinomid fireworms are notorious for their bearded trunk equipped with a powerful stinging capacity. Here, a methodological workflow based on analytical chemistry techniques (compound isolation followed by mass spectrometry and spectroscopy analyses) was applied to gain new insights, leading to the identification and structural elucidation of an array of natural products from Mediterranean specimens of Hermodice carunculata. Eight betaine-derived unprecedented compounds, named “carunculines”, were detected, bearing two terminal ammonium groups tri-and disubstituted at the Cα (A, B) and a series of different alkyl chains (I–VIII). The mixture of chemicals was found in all the body parts of H. carunculata, supporting a mechanism of action triggered by their vehiculation inside the dorsal chaetae, and subsequent injection when chaetae break off on contact. Preliminary investigations to understand adaptive features were also performed, showing a trend in carunculine abundance that fits into the evolutionary history of these worms. These findings shed light on the chemical ecology of amphinomids, giving reasons for the success of H. carunculata in benthic environments and providing promising novel metabolites for biotechnological implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Righi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 213/D, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Luca Forti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Roberto Simonini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 213/D, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Ferrari
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 213/D, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Daniela Prevedelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 213/D, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Adele Mucci
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
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17
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Cunha SA, Dinis-Oliveira RJ. Raising Awareness on the Clinical and Forensic Aspects of Jellyfish Stings: A Worldwide Increasing Threat. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148430. [PMID: 35886286 PMCID: PMC9324653 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Jellyfish are ubiquitous animals registering a high and increasing number of contacts with humans in coastal areas. These encounters result in a multitude of symptoms, ranging from mild erythema to death. This work aims to review the state-of-the-art regarding pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, and relevant clinical and forensic aspects of jellyfish stings. There are three major classes of jellyfish, causing various clinical scenarios. Most envenomations result in an erythematous lesion with morphological characteristics that may help identify the class of jellyfish responsible. In rare cases, the sting may result in delayed, persistent, or systemic symptoms. Lethal encounters have been described, but most of those cases happened in the Indo-Pacific region, where cubozoans, the deadliest jellyfish class, can be found. The diagnosis is mostly clinical but can be aided by dermoscopy, skin scrapings/sticky tape, confocal reflectance microscopy, immunological essays, among others. Treatment is currently based on preventing further envenomation, inactivating the venom, and alleviating local and systemic symptoms. However, the strategy used to achieve these effects remains under debate. Only one antivenom is currently used and covers merely one species (Chironex fleckeri). Other antivenoms have been produced experimentally but were not tested on human envenomation settings. The increased number of cases, especially due to climate changes, justifies further research in the study of clinical aspects of jellyfish envenoming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Almeida Cunha
- Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; or
| | - Ricardo Jorge Dinis-Oliveira
- Department of Public Health and Forensic Sciences, and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; or
- TOXRUN—Toxicology Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), CESPU, CRL, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
- UCIBIO-REQUIMTE—Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- MTG Research and Development Lab, 4200-604 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +351-224-157-216
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18
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Chen Q, Liang Z, Yue Q, Wang X, Siu SWI, Pui-Man Hoi M, Lee SMY. A Neuropeptide Y/F-like Polypeptide Derived from the Transcriptome of Turbinaria peltata Suppresses LPS-Induced Astrocytic Inflammation. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2022; 85:1569-1580. [PMID: 35694811 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.2c00158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Neuropeptides are a group of neuronal signaling molecules that regulate physiological and behavioral processes in animals. Here, we used in silico mining to predict the polypeptide composition of available transcriptomic data of Turbinaria peltata. In total, 118 transcripts encoding putative peptide precursors were discovered. One neuropeptide Y/F-like peptide, named TpNPY, was identified and selected for in silico structural, in silico binding, and pharmacological studies. In our study, the anti-inflammation effect of TpNPY was evaluated using an LPS-stimulated C8-D1A astrocyte cell model. Our results demonstrated that TpNPY, at 0.75-3 μM, inhibited LPS-induced NO production and reduced the expression of iNOS in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, TpNPY reduced the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines. Additionally, treatment with TpNPY reduced LPS-mediated elevation of ROS production and the intracellular calcium concentration. Further investigation revealed that TpNPY downregulated the IKK/IκB/NF-κB signaling pathway and inhibited expression of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Through molecular docking and using an NPY receptor antagonist, TpNPY was shown to have the ability to interact with the NPY Y1 receptor. On the basis of these findings, we concluded that TpNPY might prevent LPS-induced injury in astrocytes through activation of the NPY-Y1R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Zirong Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Qian Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Xiufen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Shirley Weng In Siu
- Institute of Science and Environment, University of Saint Joseph, Macao, China
| | - Maggie Pui-Man Hoi
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Simon Ming-Yuen Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
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19
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Riccio G, Martinez KA, Martín J, Reyes F, D’Ambra I, Lauritano C. Jellyfish as an Alternative Source of Bioactive Antiproliferative Compounds. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20060350. [PMID: 35736153 PMCID: PMC9227539 DOI: 10.3390/md20060350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Jellyfish are commonly considered a nuisance for their negative effects on human activities (e.g., fisheries, power plants and tourism) and human health. However, jellyfish provide several benefits to humans and are commonly eaten in eastern countries. Additionally, recent studies have suggested that jellyfish may become a source of high-value molecules. In this study, we tested the effects of the methanolic extracts and enriched fractions, obtained by solid-phase extraction fractionation, from the scyphomedusae Pelagia noctiluca, Rhizostoma pulmo, Cotylorhiza tuberculata and the cubomedusa Caryddea marsupialis on different human cancer cell lines in order to evaluate a potential antiproliferative activity. Our results indicated that fraction C from Caryddea marsupialis-(CM) and C. tuberculata oral arms (CTOA) were the most active to reduce cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. LC/MS based dereplication analyses highlighted that both bioactive fractions contained mainly fatty acids and derivatives, with CM additionally containing small peptides (0.7–0.8 kDa), which might contribute to its higher biological activity. The mechanism of action behind the most active fraction was investigated using PCR arrays. Results showed that the fraction C of CM can reduce the expression of genes involved in apoptosis inhibition in melanoma-treated cells, which makes jellyfish a potential new source of antiproliferative drugs to be exploited in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Riccio
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Kevin A. Martinez
- Fundación MEDINA, Centro de Excelencia en Investigación de Medicamentos Innovadores en Andalucía, Avda. del Conocimiento 34, 18016 Granada, Spain; (K.A.M.); (J.M.); (F.R.)
| | - Jesús Martín
- Fundación MEDINA, Centro de Excelencia en Investigación de Medicamentos Innovadores en Andalucía, Avda. del Conocimiento 34, 18016 Granada, Spain; (K.A.M.); (J.M.); (F.R.)
| | - Fernando Reyes
- Fundación MEDINA, Centro de Excelencia en Investigación de Medicamentos Innovadores en Andalucía, Avda. del Conocimiento 34, 18016 Granada, Spain; (K.A.M.); (J.M.); (F.R.)
| | - Isabella D’Ambra
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Chiara Lauritano
- Department of Ecosustainable Marine Biotechnology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0815833221
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20
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Chen H, Siu SWI, Wong CTT, Qiu J, Cheung AKK, Lee SMY. Anti-epileptic Kunitz-like peptides discovered in the branching coral Acropora digitifera through transcriptomic analysis. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:2589-2608. [PMID: 35604417 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03311-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 50 million people are suffering from epilepsy worldwide. Corals have been used for treating epilepsy in traditional Chinese medicine, but the mechanism of this treatment is unknown. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptome of the branching coral Acropora digitifera and obtained its Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), EuKaryotic Orthologous Groups (KOG) and Gene Ontology (GO) annotation. Combined with multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis, we discovered three polypeptides, we named them AdKuz1, AdKuz2 and AdKuz3, from A. digitifera that showed a close relationship to Kunitz-type peptides. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation indicated that AdKuz1 to 3 could interact with GABAA receptor but AdKuz2-GABAA remained more stable than others. The biological experiments showed that AdKuz1 and AdKuz2 exhibited an anti-inflammatory effect by decreasing the aberrant level of nitric oxide (NO), IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β induced by LPS in BV-2 cells. In addition, the pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced epileptic effect on zebrafish was remarkably suppressed by AdKuz1 and AdKuz2. AdKuz2 particularly showed superior anti-epileptic effects compared to the other two peptides. Furthermore, AdKuz2 significantly decreased the expression of c-fos and npas4a, which were up-regulated by PTZ treatment. In addition, AdKuz2 reduced the synthesis of glutamate and enhanced the biosynthesis of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). In conclusion, the results indicated that AdKuz2 may affect the synthesis of glutamate and GABA and enhance the activity of the GABAA receptor to inhibit the symptoms of epilepsy. We believe, AdKuz2 could be a promising anti-epileptic agent and its mechanism of action should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanbin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.,Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shirley Weng In Siu
- Institute of Science and Environment, University of Saint Joseph, Macao, China
| | - Clarence Tsun Ting Wong
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianwen Qiu
- Department of Biology and Hong Kong Branch of the Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.,Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China
| | - Alex Kwok-Kuen Cheung
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Simon Ming Yuen Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China. .,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.
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21
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Santander MD, Maronna MM, Ryan JF, Andrade SCS. The state of Medusozoa genomics: current evidence and future challenges. Gigascience 2022; 11:6586816. [PMID: 35579552 PMCID: PMC9112765 DOI: 10.1093/gigascience/giac036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Medusozoa is a widely distributed ancient lineage that harbors one-third of Cnidaria diversity divided into 4 classes. This clade is characterized by the succession of stages and modes of reproduction during metagenic lifecycles, and includes some of the most plastic body plans and life cycles among animals. The characterization of traditional genomic features, such as chromosome numbers and genome sizes, was rather overlooked in Medusozoa and many evolutionary questions still remain unanswered. Modern genomic DNA sequencing in this group started in 2010 with the publication of the Hydra vulgaris genome and has experienced an exponential increase in the past 3 years. Therefore, an update of the state of Medusozoa genomics is warranted. We reviewed different sources of evidence, including cytogenetic records and high-throughput sequencing projects. We focused on 4 main topics that would be relevant for the broad Cnidaria research community: (i) taxonomic coverage of genomic information; (ii) continuity, quality, and completeness of high-throughput sequencing datasets; (iii) overview of the Medusozoa specific research questions approached with genomics; and (iv) the accessibility of data and metadata. We highlight a lack of standardization in genomic projects and their reports, and reinforce a series of recommendations to enhance future collaborative research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mylena D Santander
- Correspondence address. Mylena D. Santander, Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade São Paulo, 277 Rua do Matão, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil. E-mail:
| | - Maximiliano M Maronna
- Correspondence address. Maximiliano M. Maronna, Departamento de Zoologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, 101 Rua do Matão Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil. E-mail:
| | - Joseph F Ryan
- Whitney Laboratory for Marine Bioscience, University of Florida, 9505 Ocean Shore Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080, USA,Department of Biology, University of Florida, 220 Bartram Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Sónia C S Andrade
- Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade São Paulo, 277 Rua do Matão, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo 05508-090, Brazil
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22
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Xiao B, Guo Q, Zhai Y, Gu Z. Transcriptomic Insights into the Diversity and Evolution of Myxozoa (Cnidaria, Endocnidozoa) Toxin-like Proteins. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20050291. [PMID: 35621942 PMCID: PMC9144971 DOI: 10.3390/md20050291] [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: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Myxozoa is a speciose group of endoparasitic cnidarians that can cause severe ecological and economic effects. Their cnidarian affinity is affirmed by genetic relatedness and the presence of nematocysts, historically called “polar capsules”. Previous studies have revealed the presence of toxin-like proteins in myxozoans; however, the diversity and evolution of venom in Myxozoa are not fully understood. Here, we performed a comparative analysis using the newly sequenced transcriptomes of five Myxobolidae species as well as some public datasets. Toxin mining revealed that myxozoans have lost most of their toxin families, while most species retained Kunitz, M12B, and CRISP, which may play a role in endoparasitism. The venom composition of Endocnidozoa (Myxozoa + Polypodium) differs from that of free-living cnidarians and may be influenced by ecological and environmental factors. Phylogenetic analyses showed that toxin families of myxozoans and free-living cnidarians were clustered into different clades. Selection analyses showed that purifying selection was the dominant evolutionary pressure in toxins, while they were still influenced by episodic adaptive selection. This suggests that the potency or specificity of a particular toxin or species might increase. Overall, our findings provide a more comprehensive framework for understanding the diversity and evolution of Myxozoa venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Xiao
- Department of Aquatic Animal Medicine, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (B.X.); (Q.G.); (Y.Z.)
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center for Aquatic Animal Diseases Control and Prevention, Wuhan 430070, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Qingxiang Guo
- Department of Aquatic Animal Medicine, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (B.X.); (Q.G.); (Y.Z.)
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center for Aquatic Animal Diseases Control and Prevention, Wuhan 430070, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Yanhua Zhai
- Department of Aquatic Animal Medicine, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (B.X.); (Q.G.); (Y.Z.)
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center for Aquatic Animal Diseases Control and Prevention, Wuhan 430070, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Zemao Gu
- Department of Aquatic Animal Medicine, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (B.X.); (Q.G.); (Y.Z.)
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center for Aquatic Animal Diseases Control and Prevention, Wuhan 430070, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430070, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-027-8728-2114
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23
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Jellyfish from Fisheries By-Catches as a Sustainable Source of High-Value Compounds with Biotechnological Applications. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20040266. [PMID: 35447939 PMCID: PMC9029601 DOI: 10.3390/md20040266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The world’s population growth and consequent increased demand for food, energy and materials together with the decrease of some natural resources have highlighted the compelling need to use sustainably existing resources and find alternative sources to satisfy the needs of growing and longer-aging populations. In this review, we explore the potential use of a specific fisheries by-catch, jellyfish, as a sustainable source of high-value compounds. Jellyfish are often caught up with fish into fishing gear and nets, then sorted and discarded. Conversely, we suggest that this by-catch may be used to obtain food, nutraceutical products, collagen, toxins and fluorescent compounds to be used for biomedical applications and mucus for biomaterials. These applications are based on studies which indicate the feasibility of using jellyfish for biotechnology. Because jellyfish exhibit seasonal fluctuations in abundance, jellyfish by-catches likely follow the same pattern. Therefore, this resource may not be constantly available throughout the year, so the exploitation of the variable abundances needs to be optimized. Despite the lack of data about jellyfish by-catches, the high value of their compounds and their wide range of applications suggest that jellyfish by-catches are a resource which is discarded at present, but needs to be re-evaluated for exploitation within the context of a circular economy in the era of zero waste.
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24
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Colom-Casasnovas A, Garay E, Cisneros-Mejorado A, Aguilar MB, Lazcano-Pérez F, Arellano RO, Sánchez-Rodríguez J. Sea anemone Bartholomea annulata venom inhibits voltage-gated Na+ channels and activates GABAA receptors from mammals. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5352. [PMID: 35354863 PMCID: PMC8967859 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09339-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxin production in nematocysts by Cnidaria phylum represents an important source of bioactive compounds. Using electrophysiology and, heterologous expression of mammalian ion channels in the Xenopus oocyte membrane, we identified two main effects produced by the sea anemone Bartholomea annulata venom. Nematocysts isolation and controlled discharge of their content, revealed that venom had potent effects on both voltage-dependent Na+ (Nav) channels and GABA type A channel receptors (GABAAR), two essential proteins in central nervous system signaling. Unlike many others sea anemone toxins, which slow the inactivation rate of Nav channels, B. annulata venom potently inhibited the neuronal action potential and the Na+ currents generated by distinct Nav channels opening, including human TTX-sensitive (hNav1.6) and TTX-insensitive Nav channels (hNav1.5). A second effect of B. annulata venom was an agonistic action on GABAAR that activated distinct receptors conformed by either α1β2γ2, α3β2γ1 or, ρ1 homomeric receptors. Since GABA was detected in venom samples by ELISA assay at low nanomolar range, it was excluded that GABA from nematocysts directly activated the GABAARs. This revealed that substances in B. annulata nematocysts generated at least two potent and novel effects on mammalian ion channels that are crucial for nervous system signaling.
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25
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Romano G, Almeida M, Varela Coelho A, Cutignano A, Gonçalves LG, Hansen E, Khnykin D, Mass T, Ramšak A, Rocha MS, Silva TH, Sugni M, Ballarin L, Genevière AM. Biomaterials and Bioactive Natural Products from Marine Invertebrates: From Basic Research to Innovative Applications. Mar Drugs 2022; 20:md20040219. [PMID: 35447892 PMCID: PMC9027906 DOI: 10.3390/md20040219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquatic invertebrates are a major source of biomaterials and bioactive natural products that can find applications as pharmaceutics, nutraceutics, cosmetics, antibiotics, antifouling products and biomaterials. Symbiotic microorganisms are often the real producers of many secondary metabolites initially isolated from marine invertebrates; however, a certain number of them are actually synthesized by the macro-organisms. In this review, we analysed the literature of the years 2010–2019 on natural products (bioactive molecules and biomaterials) from the main phyla of marine invertebrates explored so far, including sponges, cnidarians, molluscs, echinoderms and ascidians, and present relevant examples of natural products of interest to public and private stakeholders. We also describe omics tools that have been more relevant in identifying and understanding mechanisms and processes underlying the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in marine invertebrates. Since there is increasing attention on finding new solutions for a sustainable large-scale supply of bioactive compounds, we propose that a possible improvement in the biodiscovery pipeline might also come from the study and utilization of aquatic invertebrate stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Romano
- Marine Biotechnology Department, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (G.R.); (L.B.)
| | - Mariana Almeida
- 3B’s Research Group, I3B’s—Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics of University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark—Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Barco, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal; (M.A.); (M.S.R.); (T.H.S.)
- ICVS/3B´s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Ana Varela Coelho
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal; (A.V.C.); (L.G.G.)
| | - Adele Cutignano
- Marine Biotechnology Department, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Naples, Italy;
- CNR-Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, Via Campi Flegrei 34, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Luis G Gonçalves
- ITQB NOVA, Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Av. da República, 2780-157 Oeiras, Portugal; (A.V.C.); (L.G.G.)
| | - Espen Hansen
- Marbio, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromso, Norway;
| | - Denis Khnykin
- Laboratory for Immunohistochemistry and Immunopathology (LIIPAT), Department of Pathology, Oslo University Hospital-Rikshospitalet, 0450 Oslo, Norway;
| | - Tali Mass
- Faculty of Natural Science, Department of Marine Biology, Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel;
| | - Andreja Ramšak
- National Institute of Biology, Marine Biology Station, Fornače 41, SI-6330 Piran, Slovenia;
| | - Miguel S. Rocha
- 3B’s Research Group, I3B’s—Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics of University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark—Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Barco, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal; (M.A.); (M.S.R.); (T.H.S.)
- ICVS/3B´s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Tiago H. Silva
- 3B’s Research Group, I3B’s—Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics of University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark—Parque de Ciência e Tecnologia, Barco, 4805-017 Guimarães, Portugal; (M.A.); (M.S.R.); (T.H.S.)
- ICVS/3B´s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Michela Sugni
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria, 2, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Loriano Ballarin
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Via U. Bassi 58/B, 35100 Padova, Italy
- Correspondence: (G.R.); (L.B.)
| | - Anne-Marie Genevière
- Biologie Intégrative des Organismes Marins (BIOM), Observatoire Océanologique de Banyuls-sur-Mer, Sorbonne Université, CNRS, 1 Avenue Pierre Fabre, 66650 Banyuls-sur-Mer, France;
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26
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New Insights into the Toxin Diversity and Antimicrobial Activity of the “Fire Coral” Millepora complanata. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14030206. [PMID: 35324703 PMCID: PMC8954376 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14030206] [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: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
To date, few studies have been carried out aimed at characterizing the toxins synthesized by hydrocorals of the genus Millepora. The purpose of this study was to explore the toxin diversity and antibacterial activity of the “fire coral” M. complanata using a transcriptomic data mining approach. In addition, the cytolytic and antibacterial activities of the M. complanata nematocyst proteome were experimentally confirmed. Cytolysins were predicted from the transcriptome by comparing against the Animal Toxin Annotation Project database, resulting in 190 putative toxins, including metalloproteases, hemostasis-impairing toxins, phospholipases, among others. The M. complanata nematocyst proteome was analyzed by 1D and 2D electrophoresis and zymography. The zymograms showed different zones of cytolytic activity: two zones of hemolysis at ~25 and ~205 kDa, two regions corresponding to phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity around 6 and 25 kDa, and a proteolytic zone was observed between 50 and 205 kDa. The hemolytic activity of the proteome was inhibited in the presence of PLA2 and proteases inhibitors, suggesting that PLA2s, trypsin, chymotrypsin, serine-proteases, and matrix metalloproteases are responsible for the hemolysis. On the other hand, antimicrobial peptide sequences were retrieved from their transcripts with the amPEPpy software. This analysis revealed the presence of homologs to SK84, cgUbiquitin, Ubiquicidin, TroTbeta4, SPINK9-v1, and Histone-related antimicrobials in the transcriptome of this cnidarian. Finally, by employing disk diffusion and microdilution assays, we found that the nematocyst peptidome of M. complanata showed inhibitory activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria including S. enteritidis, P. perfectomarina, E. coli, and C. xerosis, among others. This is the first transcriptomic data mining analysis to explore the diversity of the toxins synthesized by an organism of the genus Millepora. Undoubtedly, this work provides information that will broaden our general understanding of the structural richness of cnidarian toxins.
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27
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Guo Z, Liao X, Chen JY, He C, Lu Z. Binding Pattern Reconstructions of FGF-FGFR Budding-Inducing Signaling in Reef-Building Corals. Front Physiol 2022; 12:759370. [PMID: 35058792 PMCID: PMC8764167 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.759370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Reef-building corals play an important role in marine ecosystems. However, owing to climate change, ocean acidification, and predation by invasive crown-of-thorns starfish, these corals are declining. As marine animals comprise polyps, reproduction by asexual budding is pivotal in scleractinian coral growth. The fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling pathway is essential in coral budding morphogenesis. Here, we sequenced the full-length transcriptomes of four common and frequently dominant reef-building corals and screened out the budding-related FGF and FGFR genes. Thereafter, three-dimensional (3D) models of FGF and FGFR proteins as well as FGF-FGFR binding models were reconstructed. Based on our findings, the FGF8-FGFR3 binding models in Pocillopora damicornis, Montipora capricornis, and Acropora muricata are typical receptor tyrosine kinase-signaling pathways that are similar to the Kringelchen (FGFR) in hydra. However, in P. verrucosa, FGF8 is not the FGFR3 ligand, which is found in other hydrozoan animals, and its FGFR3 must be activated by other tyrosine kinase-type ligands. Overall, this study provides background on the potentially budding propagation signaling pathway activated by the applications of biological agents in reef-building coral culture that could aid in the future restoration of coral reefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuojun Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Liao
- Guangxi Key Lab of Mangrove Conservation and Utilization, Guangxi Mangrove Research Center, Beihai, China
| | - J-Y Chen
- Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology, Nanjing, China
| | - Chunpeng He
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zuhong Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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28
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Americus B, Hams N, Klompen AML, Alama-Bermejo G, Lotan T, Bartholomew JL, Atkinson SD. The cnidarian parasite Ceratonova shasta utilizes inherited and recruited venom-like compounds during infection. PeerJ 2022; 9:e12606. [PMID: 35003924 PMCID: PMC8684318 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cnidarians are the most ancient venomous organisms. They store a cocktail of venom proteins inside unique stinging organelles called nematocysts. When a cnidarian encounters chemical and physical cues from a potential threat or prey animal, the nematocyst is triggered and fires a harpoon-like tubule to penetrate and inject venom into the prey. Nematocysts are present in all Cnidaria, including the morphologically simple Myxozoa, which are a speciose group of microscopic, spore-forming, obligate parasites of fish and invertebrates. Rather than predation or defense, myxozoans use nematocysts for adhesion to hosts, but the involvement of venom in this process is poorly understood. Recent work shows some myxozoans have a reduced repertoire of venom-like compounds (VLCs) relative to free-living cnidarians, however the function of these proteins is not known. Methods We searched for VLCs in the nematocyst proteome and a time-series infection transcriptome of Ceratonova shasta, a myxozoan parasite of salmonid fish. We used four parallel approaches to detect VLCs: BLAST and HMMER searches to preexisting cnidarian venom datasets, the machine learning tool ToxClassifier, and structural modeling of nematocyst proteomes. Sequences that scored positive by at least three methods were considered VLCs. We then mapped their time-series expressions in the fish host and analyzed their phylogenetic relatedness to sequences from other venomous animals. Results We identified eight VLCs, all of which have closely related sequences in other myxozoan datasets, suggesting a conserved venom profile across Myxozoa, and an overall reduction in venom diversity relative to free-living cnidarians. Expression of the VLCs over the 3-week fish infection varied considerably: three sequences were most expressed at one day post-exposure in the fish’s gills; whereas expression of the other five VLCs peaked at 21 days post-exposure in the intestines, coinciding with the formation of mature parasite spores with nematocysts. Expression of VLC genes early in infection, prior to the development of nematocysts, suggests venoms in C. shasta have been repurposed to facilitate parasite invasion and proliferation within the host. Molecular phylogenetics suggested some VLCs were inherited from a cnidarian ancestor, whereas others were more closely related to sequences from venomous non-Cnidarian organisms and thus may have gained qualities of venom components via convergent evolution. The presence of VLCs and their differential expression during parasite infection enrich the concept of what functions a “venom” can have and represent targets for designing therapeutics against myxozoan infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Americus
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Nicole Hams
- Columbia River Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Vancouver, Washington, United States of America
| | - Anna M L Klompen
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, The University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Gema Alama-Bermejo
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America.,Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Tamar Lotan
- Marine Biology Department, The Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - Jerri L Bartholomew
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Stephen D Atkinson
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, United States of America
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Guo Q, Whipps CM, Zhai Y, Li D, Gu Z. Quantitative Insights into the Contribution of Nematocysts to the Adaptive Success of Cnidarians Based on Proteomic Analysis. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:91. [PMID: 35053089 PMCID: PMC8773148 DOI: 10.3390/biology11010091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nematocysts are secretory organelles in cnidarians that play important roles in predation, defense, locomotion, and host invasion. However, the extent to which nematocysts contribute to adaptation and the mechanisms underlying nematocyst evolution are unclear. Here, we investigated the role of the nematocyst in cnidarian evolution based on eight nematocyst proteomes and 110 cnidarian transcriptomes/genomes. We detected extensive species-specific adaptive mutations in nematocyst proteins (NEMs) and evidence for decentralized evolution, in which most evolutionary events involved non-core NEMs, reflecting the rapid diversification of NEMs in cnidarians. Moreover, there was a 33-55 million year macroevolutionary lag between nematocyst evolution and the main phases of cnidarian diversification, suggesting that the nematocyst can act as a driving force in evolution. Quantitative analysis revealed an excess of adaptive changes in NEMs and enrichment for positively selected conserved NEMs. Together, these findings suggest that nematocysts may be key to the adaptive success of cnidarians and provide a reference for quantitative analyses of the roles of phenotypic novelties in adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingxiang Guo
- Department of Aquatic Animal Medicine, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center for Aquatic Animal Diseases Control and Prevention, Wuhan 430070, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Christopher M Whipps
- SUNY-ESF, College of Environmental Science and Forestry, State University of New York, 246 Illick Hall, 1 Forestry Drive, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA
| | - Yanhua Zhai
- Department of Aquatic Animal Medicine, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center for Aquatic Animal Diseases Control and Prevention, Wuhan 430070, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Aquatic Animal Medicine, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center for Aquatic Animal Diseases Control and Prevention, Wuhan 430070, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Zemao Gu
- Department of Aquatic Animal Medicine, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center for Aquatic Animal Diseases Control and Prevention, Wuhan 430070, China
- Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, Wuhan 430070, China
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30
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Trial Assay for Safe First-Aid Protocol for the Stinging Sea Anemone Anemonia viridis (Cnidaria: Anthozoa) and a Severe Toxic Reaction. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14010027. [PMID: 35051004 PMCID: PMC8780947 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14010027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Anemonia viridis is an abundant and widely distributed temperate sea anemone that can form dense congregations of individuals. Despite the potential severity of its sting, few detailed cases have been reported. We report a case of a severe toxic reaction following an A. viridis sting in a 35-year-old oceanographer. She developed severe pain, itching, redness, and burning sensation, which worsened one week after treatment with anti-inflammatories, antihistamines and corticosteroids. Prompted by this event, and due to the insufficient risk prevention, lack of training for marine-environment users, and lack of research into sting-specific first-aid protocols, we evaluated the cnidocyst response to five different compounds commonly recommended as rinse solutions in first-aid protocols (seawater, vinegar, ammonia, baking soda, and freshwater) by means of the Tentacle Solution Assay. Vinegar and ammonia triggered an immediate and massive cnidocyst discharge after their application and were classified as activator solutions. Baking soda and freshwater were also classified as activator solutions, although with a lower intensity of discharge. Only seawater was classified as a neutral solution and therefore recommended as a rinse solution after A. viridis sting, at least until an inhibitory solution is discovered.
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Deep-Sea Anemones Are Prospective Source of New Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Compounds. Mar Drugs 2021; 19:md19120654. [PMID: 34940653 PMCID: PMC8704684 DOI: 10.3390/md19120654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The peculiarities of the survival and adaptation of deep-sea organisms raise interest in the study of their metabolites as promising drugs. In this work, the hemolytic, cytotoxic, antimicrobial, and enzyme-inhibitory activities of tentacle extracts from five species of sea anemones (Cnidaria, orders Actiniaria and Corallimorpharia) collected near the Kuril and Commander Islands of the Far East of Russia were evaluated for the first time. The extracts of Liponema brevicorne and Actinostola callosa demonstrated maximal hemolytic activity, while high cytotoxic activity against murine splenocytes and Ehrlich carcinoma cells was found in the extract of Actinostola faeculenta. The extracts of Corallimorphus cf. pilatus demonstrated the greatest activity against Ehrlich carcinoma cells but were not toxic to mouse spleen cells. Sea anemones C. cf. pilatus and Stomphia coccinea are promising sources of antimicrobial and antifungal compounds, being active against Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and yeast Candida albicans. Moreover, all sea anemones contain α-galactosidase inhibitors. Peptide mass fingerprinting of L. brevicorne and C. cf. pilatus extracts provided a wide range of peptides, predominantly with molecular masses of 4000–5900 Da, which may belong to a known or new structural class of toxins. The obtained data allow concluding that deep-sea anemones are a promising source of compounds for drug discovery.
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Mitchell SO, Bresnihan S, Scholz F. Mortality and skin pathology of farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) caused by exposure to the jellyfish Physalia physalis in Ireland. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2021; 44:1861-1864. [PMID: 34339050 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.13499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In October 2019, during Tropical Storm Lorenzo, an unusual bloom of Physalia physalis (commonly known as the Portuguese man o' war) appeared on the west coast of Ireland. The jellyfish were observed aggregating in high numbers surrounding salmon pens on two Atlantic salmon farms with tentacles extending underwater through the nets into the pens. Acute skin lesions and mortality were reported as a consequence of exposure to P. physalis on both sites. The impact of noxious zooplankton species such as P. physalis may pose a significant and more frequent threat in future if increased adverse weather events continue to transport these and other jellyfish outside their normal range. This is the first published record of Physalia physalis causing mortality in cultured fish.
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Saide A, Damiano S, Ciarcia R, Lauritano C. Promising Activities of Marine Natural Products against Hematopoietic Malignancies. Biomedicines 2021; 9:645. [PMID: 34198841 PMCID: PMC8228764 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9060645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the WHO classification of tumors, more than 150 typologies of hematopoietic and lymphoid tumors exist, and most of them remain incurable diseases that require innovative approaches to improve therapeutic outcome and avoid side effects. Marine organisms represent a reservoir of novel bioactive metabolites, but they are still less studied compared to their terrestrial counterparts. This review is focused on marine natural products with anticancer activity against hematological tumors, highlighting recent advances and possible perspectives. Until now, there are five commercially available marine-derived compounds for the treatment of various hematopoietic cancers (e.g., leukemia and lymphoma), two molecules in clinical trials, and series of compounds and/or extracts from marine micro- and macroorganisms which have shown promising properties. In addition, the mechanisms of action of several active compounds and extracts are still unknown and require further study. The continuous upgrading of omics technologies has also allowed identifying enzymes with possible bioactivity (e.g., l-asparaginase is currently used for the treatment of leukemia) or the enzymes involved in the synthesis of bioactive secondary metabolites which can be the target of heterologous expression and genetic engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assunta Saide
- Marine Biotechnology Department, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Sara Damiano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80137 Naples, Italy;
| | - Roberto Ciarcia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Productions, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80137 Naples, Italy;
| | - Chiara Lauritano
- Marine Biotechnology Department, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, 80121 Napoli, Italy;
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D’Ambrosio M, Gonçalves C, Calmão M, Rodrigues M, Costa PM. Localization and Bioreactivity of Cysteine-Rich Secretions in the Marine Gastropod Nucella lapillus. Mar Drugs 2021; 19:276. [PMID: 34063509 PMCID: PMC8156292 DOI: 10.3390/md19050276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine biodiversity has been yielding promising novel bioproducts from venomous animals. Despite the auspices of conotoxins, which originated the paradigmatic painkiller Prialt, the biotechnological potential of gastropod venoms remains to be explored. Marine bioprospecting is expanding towards temperate species like the dogwhelk Nucella lapillus, which is suspected to secrete immobilizing agents through its salivary glands with a relaxing effect on the musculature of its preferential prey, Mytilus sp. This work focused on detecting, localizing, and testing the bioreactivity of cysteine-rich proteins and peptides, whose presence is a signature of animal venoms and poisons. The highest content of thiols was found in crude protein extracts from the digestive gland, which is associated with digestion, followed by the peribuccal mass, where the salivary glands are located. Conversely, the foot and siphon (which the gastropod uses for feeding) are not the main organs involved in toxin secretion. Ex vivo bioassays with Mytilus gill tissue disclosed the differential bioreactivity of crude protein extracts. Secretions from the digestive gland and peribuccal mass caused the most significant molecular damage, with evidence for the induction of apoptosis. These early findings indicate that salivary glands are a promising target for the extraction and characterization of bioactive cysteine-rich proteinaceous toxins from the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariaelena D’Ambrosio
- UCIBIO–Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal; (C.G.); (M.C.); (M.R.)
| | | | | | | | - Pedro M. Costa
- UCIBIO–Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Departamento de Ciências da Vida, Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal; (C.G.); (M.C.); (M.R.)
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Rádis-Baptista G. Cell-Penetrating Peptides Derived from Animal Venoms and Toxins. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:147. [PMID: 33671927 PMCID: PMC7919042 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13020147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) comprise a class of short polypeptides that possess the ability to selectively interact with the cytoplasmic membrane of certain cell types, translocate across plasma membranes and accumulate in the cell cytoplasm, organelles (e.g., the nucleus and mitochondria) and other subcellular compartments. CPPs are either of natural origin or de novo designed and synthesized from segments and patches of larger proteins or designed by algorithms. With such intrinsic properties, along with membrane permeation, translocation and cellular uptake properties, CPPs can intracellularly convey diverse substances and nanomaterials, such as hydrophilic organic compounds and drugs, macromolecules (nucleic acids and proteins), nanoparticles (nanocrystals and polyplexes), metals and radionuclides, which can be covalently attached via CPP N- and C-terminals or through preparation of CPP complexes. A cumulative number of studies on animal toxins, primarily isolated from the venom of arthropods and snakes, have revealed the cell-penetrating activities of venom peptides and toxins, which can be harnessed for application in biomedicine and pharmaceutical biotechnology. In this review, I aimed to collate examples of peptides from animal venoms and toxic secretions that possess the ability to penetrate diverse types of cells. These venom CPPs have been chemically or structurally modified to enhance cell selectivity, bioavailability and a range of target applications. Herein, examples are listed and discussed, including cysteine-stabilized and linear, α-helical peptides, with cationic and amphipathic character, from the venom of insects (e.g., melittin, anoplin, mastoparans), arachnids (latarcin, lycosin, chlorotoxin, maurocalcine/imperatoxin homologs and wasabi receptor toxin), fish (pardaxins), amphibian (bombesin) and snakes (crotamine and cathelicidins).
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Affiliation(s)
- Gandhi Rádis-Baptista
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza 60165-081, Brazil
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Amreen Nisa S, Vinu D, Krupakar P, Govindaraju K, Sharma D, Vivek R. Jellyfish venom proteins and their pharmacological potentials: A review. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 176:424-436. [PMID: 33581202 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.02.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Several research in the organisms of marine invertebrates to assess the medicinal ability of its bio-active molecules have yielded very positive results in recent times. Jellyfish secreted venoms are rich sources of toxins intended to catch prey or deter predators among invertebrate species, but they may also have harmful effects on humans. The nematocyst, a complex intracellular system that injects a venomous mixture into prey or predators that come into contact with the tentacles or other parts of the body of cnidarians, determines the venomous existence of cnidarians. Nematocyst venoms are mixtures of peptides, proteins and other components that in laboratory animals can induce cytotoxicity, blockade of ion channels, membrane pore formation, in vivo cardiovascular failure and lethal effects. There are also valuable pharmacological and biological aspects of jellyfish venoms. In the present review, overviews of the variety of possible toxin families in cnidarian venoms are addressed in this analysis and these potential toxins are surveyed with those from other cnidarians that offer insight into their potential functions such as anti-oxidant, anti-cancer activity and much more. This research review will provide awareness of the growing repertoire of jellyfish venom proteins and will help to further isolate and classify particular proteins to understand its structure and functional relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Amreen Nisa
- Centre for Ocean Research, MoES - Earth Science and Technology Cell (ESTC), Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600 119, India.
| | - D Vinu
- Centre for Ocean Research, MoES - Earth Science and Technology Cell (ESTC), Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600 119, India.
| | - P Krupakar
- Centre for Drug Discovery and Development, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600 119, India.
| | - K Govindaraju
- Centre for Ocean Research, MoES - Earth Science and Technology Cell (ESTC), Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600 119, India.
| | - D Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, India.
| | - Rahul Vivek
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-, Madison, WI, USA.
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Lauritano C, Ianora A. Chemical Defense in Marine Organisms. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18100518. [PMID: 33080956 PMCID: PMC7589352 DOI: 10.3390/md18100518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
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