Structural, functional, and bioinformatics studies reveal a new snake venom homologue phospholipase A2class

Elucidating on the quaternary structure of viper venom phospholipase A2 enzymes in aqueous solution

This study focuses on the quaternary structure of the viper-secreted phospholipase A2 (PLA2), a central toxin in viper envenomation. PLA2 enzymes catalyze the hydrolysis of the sn-2 ester bond of membrane phospholipids. Small-molecule inhibitors that act as snakebite antidotes, such as varespladib, are currently in clinical trials. These inhibitors likely bind to the enzyme in the aqueous cytosol prior to membrane-binding. Thus, understanding its controversial solution structure is key for drug design. Crystal structures of PLA2 in the PDB show at least four different dimeric conformations, the most well-known being "extended" and "compact". This variability among enzymes with >50 % sequence identity raises questions about their transferability to aqueous solution. Therefore, we performed extensive molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of several PLA2 enzymes in water to determine their quaternary structure under physiological conditions. The MD simulations strongly indicate that PLA2 enzymes adopt a "semi-compact" conformation in cytosol, a hybrid between extended and compact conformations. To our knowledge, this is the first study that determines the most favorable dimeric conformation of PLA2 enzymes in solution, providing a basis for advancements in snakebite envenoming treatment. Recognizing snakebite envenoming as a neglected tropical disease has driven the search for efficient, affordable alternatives to the current antivenoms. Therefore, understanding the main drug targets within snake venom is crucial to this achievement.

Inhibitors and activators for myotoxic phospholipase A2-like toxins from snake venoms - A structural overview

Snakebite envenomations result in acute and chronic physical and psychological health effects on their victims, leading to a substantial socio-economic burden in tropical and subtropical countries. Local necrosis is one of the serious effects caused by envenomation, primarily induced by snake venoms from the Viperidae family through the direct action of components collectively denominated as myotoxins, including the phopholipase A2-like (PLA2-like) toxins. Considering the limitations of antivenoms in preventing the rapid development of local tissue damage caused by envenomation, the use of small molecule therapeutics has been suggested as potential first-aid treatments or as adjuvants to antivenom therapy. In this review, we provide an overview of the structural interactions of molecules exhibiting inhibitory activity toward PLA2-like toxins. Additionally, we discuss the implications for the myotoxic mechanism of PLA2-like toxins and the molecules involved in their activation, highlighting key differences between activators and inhibitors. Finally, we integrate all these results to propose a classification of inhibitors into three different classes and five sub-classes. Taking into account the structural and affinity information, we compare the different inhibitors/ligands to gain a deeper understanding of the structural basis for the effective inhibition of PLA2-like toxins. By offering these insights, we aim to contribute to the search for new and efficient inhibitor molecules to complement and improve current therapy by conventional antivenoms.

Temperature effect in the inhibition of PLA2 activity of Bothrops brazili venom by Rosmarinic and Chlorogenic acids, experimental and computational approaches

Myotoxicity caused by snakebite envenoming emerges as one of the main problems of ophidic accidents as it is not well neutralized by the current serum therapy. A promising alternative is to search for efficient small molecule inhibitors that can act against multiple venom components. Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is frequently found in snake venom and is usually associated with myotoxicity. Thus it represents an excellent target for the search of new treatments. This work reports the effect of temperature in the inhibition of catalytic properties of PLA2 from Bothrops brazili venom by Rosmarinic (RSM) and Chlorogenic (CHL) acids through experimental and computational approaches. Three temperatures were evaluated (25, 37 and 50 °C). In the experimental section, enzymatic assays showed that RSM is a better inhibitor in all three temperatures. At 50 °C, the inhibition efficiency decayed significantly for both acids. Docking studies revealed that both ligands bind to the hydrophobic channel of the protein dimer where the phospholipid binds in the catalytic process, interacting with several functional residues. In this context, RSM presents better interaction energies due to stronger interactions with chain B of the dimer. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that RSM can establish selective interactions with ARG112B of PLA2, which is located next to residues of the putative Membrane Disruption Site in PLA2-like structures. The affinity of RSM and CHL acids towards PLA2 is mainly driven by electrostatic interactions, especially salt bridge interactions established with residues ARG33B (for CHL) and ARG112B (RSM) and hydrogen bonds with residue ASP89A. The inability of CHL to establish a stable interaction with ARG112B was identified as the reason for its lower inhibition efficiency compared to RSM at the three temperatures. Furthermore, extensive structural analysis was performed to explain the lower inhibition efficiency at 50 °C for both ligands. The analysis performed in this work provides important information for the future design of new inhibitors.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Viper Venom Phospholipase A2 Database: The Structural and Functional Anatomy of a Primary Toxin in Envenomation

Viper venom phospholipase A2 enzymes (vvPLA2s) and phospholipase A2-like (PLA2-like) proteins are two of the principal toxins in viper venom that are responsible for the severe myotoxic and neurotoxic effects caused by snakebite envenoming, among other pathologies. As snakebite envenoming is the deadliest neglected tropical disease, a complete understanding of these proteins' properties and their mechanisms of action is urgently needed. Therefore, we created a database comprising information on the holo-form, cofactor-bound 3D structure of 217 vvPLA2 and PLA2-like proteins in their physiologic environment, as well as 79 membrane-bound viper species from 24 genera, which we have made available to the scientific community to accelerate the development of new anti-snakebite drugs. In addition, the analysis of the sequenced, 3D structure of the database proteins reveals essential aspects of the anatomy of the proteins, their toxicity mechanisms, and the conserved binding site areas that may anchor universal interspecific inhibitors. Moreover, it pinpoints hypotheses for the molecular origin of the myotoxicity of the PLA2-like proteins. Altogether, this study provides an understanding of the diversity of these toxins and how they are conserved, and it indicates how to develop broad, interspecies, efficient small-molecule inhibitors to target the toxin's many mechanisms of action.

Lys49 myotoxins, secreted phospholipase A2-like proteins of viperid venoms: A comprehensive review

Muscle necrosis is a potential clinical complication of snakebite envenomings, which in severe cases can lead to functional or physical sequelae such as disability or amputation. Snake venom proteins with the ability to directly damage skeletal muscle fibers are collectively referred to as myotoxins, and include three main types: cytolysins of the "three-finger toxin" protein family expressed in many elapid venoms, the so-called "small" myotoxins found in a number of rattlesnake venoms, and the widespread secreted phospholipase A₂ (sPLA₂) molecules. Among the latter, protein variants that conserve the sPLA₂ structure, but lack such enzymatic activity, have been increasingly found in the venoms of many viperid species. Intriguingly, these sPLA₂-like proteins are able to induce muscle necrosis by a mechanism independent of phospholipid hydrolysis. They are commonly referred to as "Lys49 myotoxins" since they most often present, among other substitutions, the replacement of the otherwise invariant residue Asp49 of sPLA₂s by Lys. This work comprehensively reviews the historical developments and current knowledge towards deciphering the mechanism of action of Lys49 sPLA₂-like myotoxins, and points out main gaps to be filled for a better understanding of these multifaceted snake venom proteins, to hopefully lead to improved treatments for snakebites.

Egyptian cobra (Naja haje haje) venom phospholipase A2: a promising antiviral agent with potent virucidal activity against simian rotavirus and bovine coronavirus

Viral infections are linked to a variety of human diseases. Despite the achievements made in drug and vaccine development, several viruses still lack preventive vaccines and efficient antiviral compounds. Thus, developing novel antiviral agents is of great concern, particularly the natural products that are promising candidates for such discoveries. In this study, we have purified an approximately 15 kDa basic phospholipase A2 (PLA2) enzyme from the Egyptian cobra Naja haje haje venom. The purified N. haje PLA2 showed a specific activity of 22 units/mg protein against 6 units/mg protein for the whole crude venom with 3.67-fold purification. The antiviral activity of purified N. haje PLA2 has been investigated in vitro against bovine coronavirus (BCoV) and simian rotavirus (RV SA-11). Our results showed that the CC50 of PLA2 were 33.6 and 29 µg/ml against MDBK and MA104 cell lines, respectively. Antiviral analysis of N. haje PLA2 showed an inhibition of BCoV and RV SA-11 infections with a therapeutic index equal to 33.6 and 16, respectively. Moreover, N. haje PLA2 decreased the BCoV and RV SA-11 titers by 4.25 log10 TCID50 and 2.5 log10 TCID50, respectively. Thus, this research suggests the potential antiviral activity of purified N. haje PLA2 against BCoV and RV SA-11 infections in vitro.

BthTX-II from Bothrops jararacussu venom has variants with different oligomeric assemblies: An example of snake venom phospholipases A2 versatility

Phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s) are found in almost every venomous snake family. In snakebites, some PLA₂s can quickly cause local myonecrosis, which may lead to permanent sequelae if antivenom is administered belatedly. They hydrolyse phospholipids in membranes through a catalytic calcium ions-dependent mechanism. BthTX-II is a basic PLA₂ and the second major component in the venom of Bothrops jararacussu. Herein, using the software SEQUENCE SLIDER, which integrates crystallographic, mass spectrometry and genetic data, we characterized the primary, tertiary and quaternary structure of two BthTX-II variants (called a and b), which diverge in 7 residues. Crystallographic structure BthTX-IIa is in a Tense-state with its distorted calcium binding loop buried in the dimer interface, contrarily, the novel BthTX-IIb structure is a monomer in a Relax-state with a fatty acid in the hydrophobic channel. Structural data in solution reveals that both variants are monomeric in neutral physiological conditions and mostly dimeric in an acidic environment, being catalytic active in both situations. Therefore, we propose two myotoxic mechanisms for BthTX-II, a catalytic one associated with the monomeric assembly, whereas the other has a calcium independent activity related to its C-terminal region, adopting a dimeric conformation similar to PLA₂-like proteins.

Gallic acid anti-myotoxic activity and mechanism of action, a snake venom phospholipase A2 toxin inhibitor, isolated from the medicinal plant Anacardium humile

Snakebite envenoming is the cause of an ongoing health crisis in several regions of the world, particularly in tropical and neotropical countries. This scenario creates an urgent necessity for new practical solutions to address the limitations of current therapies. The current study investigated the isolation, phytochemical characterization, and myotoxicity inhibition mechanism of gallic acid (GA), a myotoxin inhibitor obtained from Anacardium humile. The identification and isolation of GA was achieved by employing analytical chromatographic separation, which exhibited a compound with retention time and nuclear magnetic resonance spectra compatible with GA's commercial standard and data from the literature. GA alone was able to inhibit the myotoxic activity induced by the crude venom of Bothrops jararacussu and its two main myotoxins, BthTX-I and BthTX-II. Circular dichroism (CD), fluorescence spectroscopy (FS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and interaction studies by molecular docking suggested that GA forms a complex with BthTX-I and II. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) kinetics assays showed that GA has a high affinity for BthTX-I with a K_D of 9.146 × 10^-7 M. Taken together, the two-state reaction mode of GA binding to BthTX-I, and CD, FS and DLS assays, suggest that GA is able to induce oligomerization and secondary structure changes for BthTX-I and -II. GA and other tannins have been shown to be effective inhibitors of snake venoms' toxic effects, and herein we demonstrated GA's ability to bind to and inhibit a snake venom PLA₂, thus proposing a new mechanism of PLA₂ inhibition, and presenting more evidence of GA's potential as an antivenom compound.

From birth to adulthood: An analysis of the Brazilian lancehead (Bothrops moojeni) venom at different life stages

The Brazilian lancehead (Bothrops moojeni) has a wide distribution in Brazil and represents a serious public health hazard. Previous works reported that the symptoms of snakebites caused by B. moojeni juveniles’ bites were mainly related to coagulation, while those caused by adults’ bites had a more prominent local damage. In this work, we analyzed the venoms of B. moojeni at different life stages to better understand the ontogeny shift in this species. Snakes were grouped by age and sex, and venom pools were formed accordingly. Compositional analyses by one-dimensional electrophoresis (1-DE), chromatography, and mass spectrometry revealed that ontogenetic changes might be mostly related to phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) and metalloproteases. Regarding the venoms functional aspect, proteolytic, L-amino acid oxidase, PLA₂, and coagulant in vitro activities were assayed, but only the first and the last ones showed age-related changes, with the venom of snakes up to 1 year-old displaying lower proteolytic and higher coagulant activities, while those from 2 years-old onward presented the opposite relation. The venoms of 3 years-old snakes were exceptions to the compositional and functional pattern of adults as both venoms presented profiles similar to neonates. Sex-related differences were observed in specific groups and were not age-related. In vivo experiments (median lethal dose and hemorrhagic activity) were statistically similar between neonates and adults, however we verified that the adult venom killed mice faster comparing to the neonates. All venoms were mostly recognized by the antibothropic serum and displayed similar profiles to 1-DE in western blotting. In conclusion, the Brazilian lancehead venom showed ontogenetic shift in its composition and activities. Furthermore, this change occurred in snakes from 1 to 2 years-old, and interestingly the venom pools from 3 years-old snakes had particular characteristics, which highlights the importance of comprehensive studies to better understand venom variability.

The synthetic varespladib molecule is a multi-functional inhibitor for PLA2 and PLA2-like ophidic toxins

BACKGROUND

The treatment for snakebites is early administration of antivenom, which can be highly effective in inhibiting the systemic effects of snake venoms, but is less effective in the treatment of extra-circulatory and local effects. To complement standard-of-care treatments such as antibody-based antivenoms, natural and synthetic small molecules have been proposed for the inhibition of key venom components such as phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) and PLA₂-like toxins. Varespladib (compound LY315920) is a synthetic molecule developed and clinically tested aiming to block inflammatory cascades of several diseases associated with high PLA₂s. Recent studies have demonstrated this molecule is able to potently inhibit snake venom catalytic PLA₂ and PLA₂-like toxins.

METHODS

In vivo and in vitro techniques were used to evaluate the inhibitory effect of varespladib against MjTX-I. X-ray crystallography was used to reveal details of the interaction between these molecules. A new methodology that combines crystallography, mass spectroscopy and phylogenetic data was used to review its primary sequence.

RESULTS

Varespladib was able to inhibit the myotoxic and cytotoxic effects of MjTX-I. Structural analysis revealed a particular inhibitory mechanism of MjTX-I when compared to other PLA₂-like myotoxin, presenting an oligomeric-independent function.

CONCLUSION

Results suggest the effectiveness of varespladib for the inhibition of MjTX-I, in similarity with other PLA₂ and PLA₂-like toxins.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

Varespladib appears to be a promissory molecule in the treatment of local effects led by PLA₂ and PLA₂-like toxins (oligomeric dependent and independent), indicating that this is a multifunctional or broadly specific inhibitor for different toxins within this superfamily.

Design, synthesis and pharmacological assessment of new pyrazole compounds

AIMS

This study investigated the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of new pyrazole compounds LQFM011(5), LQFM043(6) and LQFM044(7) as well as the mechanisms of action and acute in vitro toxicity.

MAIN METHODS

The antinociceptive activity was evaluated using the acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing test, formalin-induced pain test and the Randall-Selitto test. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using models of paw oedema and pleurisy induced by carrageenan; cell migration, the levels of tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) enzyme activity were evaluated. In addition, the ability to inhibit phospholipase A2 (PLA2) in vitro and docking in PLA2 were used. Acute oral systemic toxicity in mice was evaluated through the neutral red uptake assay.

KEY FINDINGS

The synthesised compounds (5-7), delivered via gavage (p.o.) at 70, 140 or 280 µmol/kg, decreased the number of writhings induced by acetic acid; the three compounds (280 µmol/kg p.o.) reduced the paw licking time in the first and second phase of the formalin test and decreased the nociceptive threshold variation in the Randall-Selitto test. Furthermore, this dose reduced oedema formation, leucocyte migration (specifically through reduction in polymorphonuclear cell movement) and increased mononuclear cells. MPO activity and the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α were decreased. Evaluation of PLA2 inhibition via the docking simulation revealed more interactions of LQFM043R(6) and LQFM044(7), data that corroborated the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of PLA2 inhibition in vitro. Therefore, LQFM011(5), LQFM043(6) and LQFM044(7) were classified with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) as category 4.

Secretory Phospholipases A2 in Plants

Secreted phospholipases (sPLA2s) in plants are a growing group of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of sn-2 glycerophospholipids to lysophospholipids and free fatty acids. Until today, around only 20 sPLA2s were reported from plants. This review discusses the newly acquired information on plant sPLA2s including molecular, biochemical, catalytic, and functional aspects. The comparative analysis also includes phylogenetic, evolutionary, and tridimensional structure. The observations with emphasis in Glycine max sPLA2 are compared with the available data reported for all plants sPLA2s and with those described for animals (mainly from pancreatic juice and venoms sources).

Prospective study of a Bothrops jararacussu venom batch (Bj2015) - phospholipase A2 activity, immunogenicity, neurotoxicity, and myotoxicity parameters

Bothrops jararacussu venom's (Bj2015) batch was biomonitored quarterly for one year to assess phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) activity, immunogenicity, neurotoxicity, and myotoxicity. In silico models were applied to evaluate losses using decay model and recoveries by predictive trend analysis. Mice were immunized with Bj2015. Antibodies were detected by double-immunodiffusion and total protein and albumin were measured. Neuromuscular blockade-induced by 40 μg mL^-1 venom solution was carried out using mouse nerve phrenic-diaphragm preparation. Resulting muscles were submitted to light microscopy to evaluate the myotoxicity. PLA₂ activity of 0.1 mg mL^-1 Bj2015 was measured using 4-nitro-3-(octanoyloxy)benzoic acid as substrate. Over time, greater losses occurred in neurotoxicity than PLA₂, but not in myotoxicity and immunogenicity. Concluding, the neurotoxicity decrease can be related to enzymatic losses, including PLA₂. Depending on the purpose of use, the collected venom responds on a long time, avoiding unnecessary new collections, improving life quality of animals in captivity and increasing their longevity.

Can Inhibitors of Snake Venom Phospholipases A₂ Lead to New Insights into Anti-Inflammatory Therapy in Humans? A Theoretical Study

Human phospholipase A₂ (hPLA₂) of the IIA group (HGIIA) catalyzes the hydrolysis of membrane phospholipids, producing arachidonic acid and originating potent inflammatory mediators. Therefore, molecules that can inhibit this enzyme are a source of potential anti-inflammatory drugs, with different action mechanisms of known anti-inflammatory agents. For the study and development of new anti-inflammatory drugs with this action mechanism, snake venom PLA₂ (svPLA₂) can be employed, since the svPLA₂ has high similarity with the human PLA₂ HGIIA. Despite the high similarity between these secretory PLA₂s, it is still not clear if these toxins can really be employed as an experimental model to predict the interactions that occur with the human PLA₂ HGIIA and its inhibitors. Thus, the present study aims to compare and evaluate, by means of theoretical calculations, docking and molecular dynamics simulations, as well as experimental studies, the interactions of human PLA₂ HGIIA and two svPLA₂s,Bothrops toxin II and Crotoxin B (BthTX-II and CB, respectively). Our theoretical findings corroborate experimental data and point out that the human PLA₂ HGIIA and svPLA₂ BthTX-II lead to similar interactions with the studied compounds. From our results, the svPLA₂ BthTX-II can be used as an experimental model for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs for therapy in humans.

Crystal structure of a phospholipase A2 from Bothrops asper venom: Insights into a new putative "myotoxic cluster"

Snake venoms from the Viperidae and Elapidae families often have several phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s), which may display different functions despite having a similar structural scaffold. These proteins are considered an important target for the development of drugs against local myotoxic damage because they are not efficiently neutralized by conventional serum therapy. PLA₂s from these venoms are generally divided into two classes: (i) catalytic PLA₂s (or Asp49-PLA₂s) and (ii) non-catalytic PLA₂-like toxins (or Lys49-PLA₂s). In many Viperidae venoms, a subset of the basic Asp49-PLA₂s displays some functional and structural characteristics of PLA₂-like proteins and group within the same phylogenetic clade, but their myotoxic mechanism is still largely unknown. In the present study, we have crystallized and solved the structure of myotoxin I (MT-I), a basic myotoxic Asp49-PLA₂ isolated from Bothrops asper venom. The structure presents a dimeric conformation that is compatible with that of previous dimers found for basic myotoxic Asp49-PLA₂s and Lys49-PLA₂s and has been confirmed by other biophysical and bioinformatics techniques. This arrangement suggests a possible cooperative action between both monomers to exert myotoxicity via two different sites forming a putative membrane-docking site (MDoS) and a putative membrane disruption site (MDiS). This mechanism would resemble that proposed for Lys49-PLA₂s, but the sites involved appear to be situated in a different region. Thus, as both sites are close to one another, they form a "myotoxic cluster", which is also found in two other basic myotoxic Asp49-PLA₂s from Viperidae venoms. Such arrangement may represent a novel structural strategy for the mechanism of muscle damage exerted by the group of basic, Asp49-PLA₂s found in viperid snake venoms.

Photobiomodulation Protects and Promotes Differentiation of C2C12 Myoblast Cells Exposed to Snake Venom

BACKGROUND

Snakebites is a neglected disease and in Brazil is considered a serious health problem, with the majority of the snakebites caused by the genus Bothrops. Antivenom therapy and other first-aid treatments do not reverse local myonecrose which is the main sequel caused by the envenomation. Several studies have shown the effectiveness of low level laser (LLL) therapy in reducing local myonecrosis induced by Bothropic venoms, however the mechanism involved in this effect is unknown. In this in vitro study, we aimed to analyze the effect of LLL irradiation against cytotoxicity induced by Bothrops jararacussu venom on myoblast C2C12 cells.

METHODOLOGY

C2C12 were utilized as a model target and were incubated with B. jararacussu venom (12.5 μg/mL) and immediately irradiated with LLL at wavelength of red 685 nm or infrared 830 nm with energy density of 2.0, 4.6 and 7.0 J/cm2. Effects of LLL on cellular responses of venom-induced cytotoxicity were examined, including cell viability, measurement of cell damage and intra and extracellular ATP levels, expression of myogenic regulatory factors, as well as cellular differentiation.

RESULTS

In non-irradiated cells, the venom caused a decrease in cell viability and a massive release of LDH and CK levels indicating myonecrosis. Infrared and red laser at all energy densities were able to considerably decrease venom-induced cytotoxicity. Laser irradiation induced myoblasts to differentiate into myotubes and this effect was accompanied by up regulation of MyoD and specially myogenin. Moreover, LLL was able to reduce the extracellular while increased the intracellular ATP content after venom exposure. In addition, no difference in the intensity of cytotoxicity was shown by non-irradiated and irradiated venom.

CONCLUSION

LLL irradiation caused a protective effect on C2C12 cells against the cytotoxicity caused by B. jararacussu venom and promotes differentiation of these cells by up regulation of myogenic factors. A modulatory effect of ATP synthesis may be suggested as a possible mechanism mediating cytoprotection observed under laser irradiation.

F. Huacca M, Fernandes CF, Calderon LA, Zuliani JP, Pereira da Silva LH, Soares AM, Stabeli RG, F. C. Fernandes C. Inhibition of the Myotoxicity Induced by Bothrops jararacussu Venom and Isolated Phospholipases A2 by Specific Camelid Single-Domain Antibody Fragments

Antivenoms, produced using animal hyperimmune plasma, remains the standard therapy for snakebites. Although effective against systemic damages, conventional antivenoms have limited efficacy against local tissue damage. Additionally, the hypersensitivity reactions, often elicited by antivenoms, the high costs for animal maintenance, the difficulty of producing homogeneous lots, and the instability of biological products instigate the search for innovative products for antivenom therapy. In this study, camelid antibody fragments (VHH) with specificity to Bothropstoxin I and II (BthTX-I and BthTX-II), two myotoxic phospholipases from Bothrops jararacussu venom, were selected from an immune VHH phage display library. After biopanning, 28 and 6 clones recognized BthTX-I and BthTX-II by ELISA, respectively. Complementarity determining regions (CDRs) and immunoglobulin frameworks (FRs) of 13 VHH-deduced amino acid sequences were identified, as well as the camelid hallmark amino acid substitutions in FR2. Three VHH clones (KF498607, KF498608, and KC329718) were capable of recognizing BthTX-I by Western blot and showed affinity constants in the nanomolar range against both toxins. VHHs inhibited the BthTX-II phospholipase A2 activity, and when tested for cross-reactivity, presented specificity to the Bothrops genus in ELISA. Furthermore, two clones (KC329718 and KF498607) neutralized the myotoxic effects induced by B. jararacussu venom, BthTX-I, BthTX-II, and by a myotoxin from Bothrops brazili venom (MTX-I) in mice. Molecular docking revealed that VHH CDRs are expected to bind the C-terminal of both toxins, essential for myotoxic activity, and to epitopes in the BthTX-II enzymatic cleft. Identified VHHs could be a biotechnological tool to improve the treatment for snake envenomation, an important and neglected world public health problem.

Structural and functional evidence for membrane docking and disruption sites on phospholipase A2-like proteins revealed by complexation with the inhibitor suramin

Local myonecrosis resulting from snakebite envenomation is not efficiently neutralized by regular antivenom administration. This limitation is considered to be a significant health problem by the World Health Organization. Phospholipase A2-like (PLA2-like) proteins are among the most important proteins related to the muscle damage resulting from several snake venoms. However, despite their conserved tertiary structure compared with PLA2s, their biological mechanism remains incompletely understood. Different oligomeric conformations and binding sites have been identified or proposed, leading to contradictory data in the literature. In the last few years, a comprehensive hypothesis has been proposed based on fatty-acid binding, allosteric changes and the presence of two different interaction sites. In the present study, a combination of techniques were used to fully understand the structural–functional characteristics of the interaction between suramin and MjTX-II (a PLA2-like toxin).In vitroneuromuscular studies were performed to characterize the biological effects of the protein–ligand interaction and demonstrated that suramin neutralizes the myotoxic activity of MjTX-II. The high-resolution structure of the complex identified the toxin–ligand interaction sites. Calorimetric assays showed two different binding events between the protein and the inhibitor. It is demonstrated for the first time that the inhibitor binds to the surface of the toxin, obstructing the sites involved in membrane docking and disruption according to the proposed myotoxic mechanism. Furthermore, higher-order oligomeric formation by interaction with interfacial suramins was observed, which may also aid the inhibitory process. These results further substantiate the current myotoxic mechanism and shed light on the search for efficient inhibitors of the local myonecrosis phenomenon.

Ac2-26 Mimetic Peptide of Annexin A1 Inhibits Local and Systemic Inflammatory Processes Induced by Bothrops moojeni Venom and the Lys-49 Phospholipase A2 in a Rat Model

Annexin A1 (AnxA1) is an endogenous glucocorticoid regulated protein that modulates anti-inflammatory process and its therapeutic potential has recently been recognized in a range of systemic inflammatory disorders. The effect of the N-terminal peptide Ac2-26 of AnxA1 on the toxic activities of Bothrops moojeni crude venom (CV) and its myotoxin II (MjTX-II) were evaluated using a peritonitis rat model. Peritonitis was induced by the intraperitoneal injection of either CV or MjTX-II, a Lys-49 phospholipase A2. Fifteen minutes after the injection, the rats were treated with either Ac2-26 or PBS. Four hours later, the CV and MjTX-II-induced peritonitis were characterized by neutrophilia (in the peritoneal exudate, blood and mesentery) and increased number of mesenteric degranulated mast cells and macrophages. At 24 hours post-injection, the local inflammatory response was attenuated in the CV-induced peritonitis while the MjTX-II group exhibited neutrophilia (peritoneal exudates and blood). Ac2-26 treatment prevented the influx of neutrophils in MjTX-II-induced peritonitis and diminished the proportion of mesenteric degranulated mast cells and macrophages in CV-induced peritonitis. Additionally, CV and MjTX-II promoted increased levels of IL-1β and IL-6 in the peritoneal exudates which were significantly reduced after Ac2-26 treatment. At 4 and 24 hours, the endogenous expression of AnxA1 was upregulated in the mesenteric neutrophils (CV and MjTX-II groups) and mast cells (CV group). In the kidneys, CV and MjTX-II administrations were associated with an increased number of macrophages and morphological alterations in the juxtamedullary nephrons in proximal and distal tubules. Ac2-26 promoted significant recovery of the juxtamedullary structures, decreased the number of macrophages and diminished the AnxA1 in epithelial cells from distal tubules and renal capsules. Our results show that Ac2-26 treatment significantly attenuates local and systemic inflammatory processes and indicate this peptide as a potential target for the development of new therapeutic strategies for the snakebite envenomation treatment.

Phospholipases a2 from Viperidae snakes: Differences in membranotropic activity between enzymatically active toxin and its inactive isoforms

We describe the interaction of various phospholipases A2 (PLA2) from snake venoms of the family Viperidae (Macrovipera lebetina obtusa, Vipera ursinii renardi, Bothrops asper) with giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) composed of natural brain phospholipids mixture, visualized through fluorescence microscopy. The membrane fluorescent probes 8-anilino-1-naphthalenesulfonicacid (ANS), LAUDRAN and PRODAN were used to assess the state of the membrane and specifically mark the lipid packing and membrane fluidity. Our results have shown that the three PLA2s which contain either of aspartic acid, serine, or lysine residues at position 49 in the catalytic center, have different effects on the vesicles. The PLA2 with aspartic acid at this position causes the oval deformation of the vesicles, while serine and lysine-containing enzymes lead to an appreciable increase of fluorescence intensity in the vesicles membrane, wherein the shape and dimensions of GUVs have not changed, but in this case GUV aggregation occurs. LAURDAN and PRODAN detect the extent of water penetration into the bilayer surface. We calculated generalized polarization function (GP), showing that for all cases (D49 PLA2, S49 PLA2 and K49 PLA2) both LAUDRAN and PRODAN GP values decrease. A higher LAURDAN GP is indicative of low water penetration in the lipid bilayer in case of K49 PLA2 compared with D49 PLA2, whereas the PRODAN mainly gives information when lipid is in liquid crystalline phase.

Synergism between basic Asp49 and Lys49 phospholipase A2 myotoxins of viperid snake venom in vitro and in vivo

Two subtypes of phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s) with the ability to induce myonecrosis, ‘Asp49’ and ‘Lys49’ myotoxins, often coexist in viperid snake venoms. Since the latter lack catalytic activity, two different mechanisms are involved in their myotoxicity. A synergism between Asp49 and Lys49 myotoxins from Bothrops asper was previously observed in vitro, enhancing Ca²⁺ entry and cell death when acting together upon C2C12 myotubes. These observations are extended for the first time in vivo, by demonstrating a clear enhancement of myonecrosis by the combined action of these two toxins in mice. In addition, novel aspects of their synergism were revealed using myotubes. Proportions of Asp49 myotoxin as low as 0.1% of the Lys49 myotoxin are sufficient to enhance cytotoxicity of the latter, but not the opposite. Sublytic amounts of Asp49 myotoxin also enhanced cytotoxicity of a synthetic peptide encompassing the toxic region of Lys49 myotoxin. Asp49 myotoxin rendered myotubes more susceptible to osmotic lysis, whereas Lys49 myotoxin did not. In contrast to myotoxic Asp49 PLA₂, an acidic non-toxic PLA₂ from the same venom did not markedly synergize with Lys49 myotoxin, revealing a functional difference between basic and acidic PLA₂ enzymes. It is suggested that Asp49 myotoxins synergize with Lys49 myotoxins by virtue of their PLA₂ activity. In addition to the membrane-destabilizing effect of this activity, Asp49 myotoxins may generate anionic patches of hydrolytic reaction products, facilitating electrostatic interactions with Lys49 myotoxins. These data provide new evidence for the evolutionary adaptive value of the two subtypes of PLA₂ myotoxins acting synergistically in viperid venoms.

A novel phospholipase A2 (D49) from the venom of the Crotalus oreganus abyssus (North American Grand canyon rattlesnake)

Currently, Crotalus viridis was divided into two species: Crotalus viridis and Crotalus oreganus. The current classification divides "the old" Crotalus viridis into two new and independent species: Crotalus viridis (subspecies: viridis and nuntius) and Crotalus oreganus (subspecies: abyssus, lutosus, concolor, oreganus, helleri, cerberus, and caliginis). The analysis of a product from cDNA (E6d), derived from the gland of a specie Crotalus viridis viridis, was found to produce an acid phospholipase A2. In this study we isolated and characterized a PLA2 (D49) from Crotalus oreganus abyssus venom. Our studies show that the PLA2 produced from the cDNA of Crotalus viridis viridis (named E6d) is exactly the same PLA2 primary sequence of amino acids isolated from the venom of Crotalus oreganus abyssus. Thus, the PLA2 from E6d cDNA is actually the same PLA2 presented in the venom of Crotalus oreganus abyssus and does not correspond to the venom from Crotalus viridis viridis. These facts highlight the importance of performing more studies on subspecies of Crotalus oreganus and Crotalus viridis, since the old classification may have led to mixed results or mistaken data.

Structural and phylogenetic studies with MjTX-I reveal a multi-oligomeric toxin--a novel feature in Lys49-PLA2s protein class

The mortality caused by snakebites is more damaging than many tropical diseases, such as dengue haemorrhagic fever, cholera, leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis and Chagas disease. For this reason, snakebite envenoming adversely affects health services of tropical and subtropical countries and is recognized as a neglected disease by the World Health Organization. One of the main components of snake venoms is the Lys49-phospholipases A₂, which is catalytically inactive but possesses other toxic and pharmacological activities. Preliminary studies with MjTX-I from Bothrops moojeni snake venom revealed intriguing new structural and functional characteristics compared to other bothropic Lys49-PLA₂s. We present in this article a comprehensive study with MjTX-I using several techniques, including crystallography, small angle X-ray scattering, analytical size-exclusion chromatography, dynamic light scattering, myographic studies, bioinformatics and molecular phylogenetic analyses.Based in all these experiments we demonstrated that MjTX-I is probably a unique Lys49-PLA₂, which may adopt different oligomeric forms depending on the physical-chemical environment. Furthermore, we showed that its myotoxic activity is dramatically low compared to other Lys49-PLA₂s, probably due to the novel oligomeric conformations and important mutations in the C-terminal region of the protein. The phylogenetic analysis also showed that this toxin is clearly distinct from other bothropic Lys49-PLA₂s, in conformity with the peculiar oligomeric characteristics of MjTX-I and possible emergence of new functionalities inresponse to environmental changes and adaptation to new preys.

Antitumoral potential of Tunisian snake venoms secreted phospholipases A2

Phospholipases type A₂ (PLA₂s) are the most abundant proteins found in Viperidae snake venom. They are quite fascinating from both a biological and structural point of view. Despite similarity in their structures and common catalytic properties, they exhibit a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities. Besides being hydrolases, secreted phospholipases A₂ (sPLA₂) are an important group of toxins, whose action at the molecular level is still a matter of debate. These proteins can display toxic effects by different mechanisms. In addition to neurotoxicity, myotoxicity, hemolytic activity, antibacterial, anticoagulant, and antiplatelet effects, some venom PLA₂s show antitumor and antiangiogenic activities by mechanisms independent of their enzymatic activity. This paper aims to discuss original finding against anti-tumor and anti-angiogenic activities of sPLA₂ isolated from Tunisian vipers: Cerastes cerastes and Macrovipera lebetina, representing new tools to target specific integrins, mainly, α5β1 and αv integrins.

In silico and in vitro characterization of phospholipase A₂ isoforms from soybean (Glycine max)

At the present, no secreted phospholipase A₂ (sPLA₂) from soybean (Glycine max) was investigated in detail. In this work we identified five sequences of putative secreted sPLA₂ from soybean after a BLAST search in G. max database. Sequence analysis showed a conserved PA2c domain bearing the Ca²⁺ binding loop and the active site motif. All the five mature proteins contain 12 cysteine residues, which are commonly conserved in plant sPLA₂s. We propose a phylogenetic tree based on sequence alignment of reported plant sPLA₂s including the novel enzymes from G. max. According to PLA₂ superfamily, two of G. max sPLA₂s are grouped as XIA and the rest of sequences as XIB, on the basis of differences found in their molecular weights and deviating sequences especially in the N- and C-terminal regions of the isoenzymes. Furthermore, we report the cloning, expression and purification of one of the putative isoenzyme denoted as GmsPLA₂-XIA-1. We demonstrate that this mature sPLA₂ of 114 residues had PLA₂ activity on Triton:phospholipid mixed micelles and determine the kinetic parameters for this system. We generate a model based on the known crystal structure of sPLA₂ from rice (isoform II), giving first insights into the three-dimensional structure of folded GmsPLA₂-XIA-1. Besides describing the spatial arrangement of highly conserved pair HIS-49/ASP-50 and the Ca⁺² loop domains, we propose the putative amino acids involved in the interfacial recognition surface. Additionally, molecular dynamics simulations indicate that calcium ion, besides its key function in the catalytic cycle, plays an important role in the overall stability of GmsPLA₂-XIA-1 structure.

Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of an acidic phospholipase A2 with vasoconstrictor activity from Agkistrodon halys pallas venom

Phospholipases A2 (PLA2s) are the major component of snake venoms and exert a variety of relevant toxic actions such as neurotoxicity and myotoxicity, amongst others. An acidic PLA2, here named AhV_aPA, was purified from Agkistrodon halys pallas venom by means of a three-step chromatographic procedure. AhV_aPA migrated as a single band on SDS-PAGE gels, with a molecular weight of about 14 kDa. Like other acidic aPLA2s, AhV_aPA has high enzymatic activity. Tension measurements of mouse thoracic aortic rings remarkably indicated that AhV_aPA could induce a further contractile response on the 60 mM K+-induced contraction, with an EC50 of 369 nmol l(-1). Rod-shaped crystals were obtained by the hanging-drop vapour-diffusion method and diffracted to a resolution limit of 2.30 Å. The crystals belonged to space group P222, with unit-cell parameters a=44.27, b=68.39, c=81.54 Å.

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of three myotoxic phospholipases A2 from Bothrops brazili venom

Two myotoxic and noncatalytic Lys49-phospholipases A(2) (braziliantoxin-II and MT-II) and a myotoxic and catalytic phospholipase A(2) (braziliantoxin-III) from the venom of the Amazonian snake Bothrops brazili were crystallized. The crystals diffracted to resolutions in the range 2.56-2.05 Å and belonged to space groups P3(1)21 (braziliantoxin-II), P6(5)22 (braziliantoxin-III) and P2(1) (MT-II). The structures were solved by molecular-replacement techniques. Both of the Lys49-phospholipases A(2) (braziliantoxin-II and MT-II) contained a dimer in the asymmetric unit, while the Asp49-phospholipase A(2) braziliantoxin-III contained a monomer in its asymmetric unit. Analysis of the quaternary assemblies of the braziliantoxin-II and MT-II structures using the PISA program indicated that both models have a dimeric conformation in solution. The same analysis of the braziliantoxin-III structure indicated that this protein does not dimerize in solution and probably acts as a monomer in vivo, similar to other snake-venom Asp49-phospholipases A(2).

Identification of linear B-cell epitopes on myotoxin II, a Lys49 phospholipase A₂ homologue from Bothrops asper snake venom

Knowledge on toxin immunogenicity at the molecular level can provide valuable information for the improvement of antivenoms, as well as for understanding toxin structure-function relationships. The aims of this study are two-fold: first, to identify the linear B-cell epitopes of myotoxin II from Bothrops asper snake venom, a Lys49 phospholipase A₂ homologue; and second, to use antibodies specifically directed against an epitope having functional relevance in its toxicity, to probe the dimeric assembly mode of this protein in solution. Linear B-cell epitopes were identified using a library of overlapping synthetic peptides spanning its complete sequence. Epitopes recognized by a rabbit antiserum to purified myotoxin II, and by three batches of a polyvalent (Crotalidae) therapeutic antivenom (prepared in horses immunized with a mixture of B. asper, Crotalus simus, and Lachesis stenophrys venoms) were mapped using an enzyme-immunoassay based on the capture of biotinylated peptides by immobilized streptavidin. Some of the epitopes identified were shared between the two species, whereas others were unique. Differences in epitope recognition were observed not only between the two species, but also within the three batches of equine antivenom. Epitope V, located at the C-terminal region of this protein, is known to be relevant for toxicity and neutralization. Affinity-purified rabbit antibodies specific for this site were able to immunoprecipitate myotoxin II, suggesting that the two copies of epitope V are simultaneously available to antibody binding, which would be compatible with the mode of dimerization known as "conventional" dimer.

Structural and functional studies of a bothropic myotoxin complexed to rosmarinic acid: new insights into Lys49-PLA₂ inhibition

Snakebite envenoming is an important public health problem in many tropical and subtropical countries, and is considered a neglected tropical disease by the World Health Organization. Most severe cases are inflicted by species of the families Elapidae and Viperidae, and lead to a number of systemic and local effects in the victim. One of the main problems regarding viperidic accidents is prominent local tissue damage whose pathogenesis is complex and involves the combined actions of a variety of venom components. Phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s) are the most abundant muscle-damaging components of these venoms. Herein, we report functional and structural studies of PrTX-I, a Lys49-PLA₂ from Bothops pirajai snake venom, and the influence of rosmarinic acid (RA) upon this toxin's activities. RA is a known active component of some plant extracts and has been reported as presenting anti-myotoxic properties related to bothopic envenomation. The myotoxic activity of Lys49-PLA₂s is well established in the literature and although no in vivo neurotoxicity has been observed among these toxins, in vitro neuromuscular blockade has been reported for some of these proteins. Our in vitro studies show that RA drastically reduces both the muscle damage and the neuromuscular blockade exerted by PrTX-I on mice neuromuscular preparations (by ∼80% and ∼90%, respectively). These results support the hypothesis that the two effects are closely related and lead us to suggest that they are consequences of the muscle membrane-destabilizing activity of the Lys49-PLA₂. Although the C-terminal region of these proteins has been reported to comprise the myotoxic site, we demonstrate by X-ray crystallographic studies that RA interacts with PrTX-I in a different region. Consequently, a new mode of Lys49-PLA₂ inhibition is proposed. Comparison of our results with others in the literature suggests possible new ways to inhibit bothropic snake venom myotoxins and improve serum therapy.