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Hejníková M, Tomčala A, Černý J, Kodrík D. Melittin-The principal toxin of honeybee venom-Is also produced in the honeybee fat body. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 281:109928. [PMID: 38649084 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2024.109928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Melittin is a powerful toxin present in honeybee venom that is active in a wide range of animals, from insects to humans. Melittin exerts numerous biological, toxicological, and pharmacological effects, the most important of which is destruction of the cell membrane. The phospholipase activity of melittin and its ability to activate phospholipases in the venom contribute to these actions. Using analytical methods, we discovered that the honeybee Apis mellifera produces melittin not only in the venom gland but also in its fat body cells, which remain resistant to this toxin's effects. We suggest that melittin acts as an anti-bacterial agent, since its gene expression is significantly upregulated when honeybees are infected with Escherichia coli and Listeria monocytogenes bacteria; additionally, melittin effectively kills these bacteria in the disc diffusion test. We hypothesize that the chemical and physicochemical properties of the melittin molecule (hydrophilicity, lipophilicity, and capacity to form tetramers) in combination with reactive conditions (melittin concentration, salt concentration, pH, and temperature) are responsible for the targeted destruction of bacterial cells and apparent tolerance towards own tissue cells. Considering that melittin is an important current and, importantly, potential broad-spectrum medication, a thorough understanding of the observed phenomena may significantly increase its use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markéta Hejníková
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Centre, CAS, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Aleš Tomčala
- University of South Bohemia, Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Water, CENAKVA, Institute of Aquaculture and Protection of Waters, Na Sádkách 1780, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Černý
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Centre, CAS, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; University of South Bohemia, Faculty of Science, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Dalibor Kodrík
- Institute of Entomology, Biology Centre, CAS, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; University of South Bohemia, Faculty of Science, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
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2
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Ahmed MBM, El-ssayad MF, Yousef SY, Salem SH. Bee venom: A potential natural alternative to conventional preservatives for prolonging the shelf-life of soft cheese 'Talaga'. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28968. [PMID: 38601605 PMCID: PMC11004823 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The study aims to explore bee venom (honey-BV) as a potential natural preservative for "Tallaga" soft cheese. Characterization of the active compounds in honey-BV was conducted via chromatographic analyses. Antimicrobial efficacy against pathogenic bacteria and fungi was evaluated, and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined. Subsequently, honey-BV was applied to Tallaga cheese at 15 mg/g concentrations. The main active ingredients identified in bee venom were apamin (2%) and melittin (48.7%). Both concentrations of bee venom (100 and 200 mg/mL) exhibited significant antifungal and antibacterial properties against tested organisms, with MIC values varied from 0.2 to 0.5 mg/mL for bacteria to 3-13 mg/mL for fungi. Application of honey-BV in Tallaga cheese resulted in complete elimination of Staphylococcal populations after 2 weeks of cold storage, with no detectable growth of molds or yeasts throughout the storage period. Additionally, a steady decrease in aerobic plate count was observed over time. In summary, honey-BV holds promise as a natural preservative for soft cheese, however, more investigation is required to optimize the concentration for economic viability, taking into account health benefits and safety considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Bedair M. Ahmed
- Department of Food Toxicology and Contaminants, National Research Centre, 33 El-Bohouth St., P.O. Box: 12622, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Fathy El-ssayad
- Dairy Sciences Department, National Research Centre, 33 El-Bohouth St., P.O. Box: 12622, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Salah H. Salem
- Department of Food Toxicology and Contaminants, National Research Centre, 33 El-Bohouth St., P.O. Box: 12622, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
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Dashevsky D, Baumann K, Undheim EAB, Nouwens A, Ikonomopoulou MP, Schmidt JO, Ge L, Kwok HF, Rodriguez J, Fry BG. Functional and Proteomic Insights into Aculeata Venoms. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15030224. [PMID: 36977115 PMCID: PMC10053895 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15030224] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Aculeate hymenopterans use their venom for a variety of different purposes. The venom of solitary aculeates paralyze and preserve prey without killing it, whereas social aculeates utilize their venom in defence of their colony. These distinct applications of venom suggest that its components and their functions are also likely to differ. This study investigates a range of solitary and social species across Aculeata. We combined electrophoretic, mass spectrometric, and transcriptomic techniques to characterize the compositions of venoms from an incredibly diverse taxon. In addition, in vitro assays shed light on their biological activities. Although there were many common components identified in the venoms of species with different social behavior, there were also significant variations in the presence and activity of enzymes such as phospholipase A2s and serine proteases and the cytotoxicity of the venoms. Social aculeate venom showed higher presence of peptides that cause damage and pain in victims. The venom-gland transcriptome from the European honeybee (Apis mellifera) contained highly conserved toxins which match those identified by previous investigations. In contrast, venoms from less-studied taxa returned limited results from our proteomic databases, suggesting that they contain unique toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Dashevsky
- Australian National Insect Collection, Commonwealth Scientific & Industrial Research Organisation, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
- Correspondence: (D.D.); (B.G.F.)
| | - Kate Baumann
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Eivind A. B. Undheim
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Bioscience, University of Oslo, N-0316 Oslo, Norway
| | - Amanda Nouwens
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Maria P. Ikonomopoulou
- Translational Venomics Group, Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies in Food, 4075 Madrid, Spain
| | - Justin O. Schmidt
- Southwestern Biological Institute, 1961 W. Brichta Dr., Tucson, AZ 85745, USA
| | - Lilin Ge
- State Key Laboratory Cultivation Base for TCM Quality and Efficacy, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 138 Xianlin Avenue, Qixia District, Nanjing 210046, China
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau
| | - Hang Fai Kwok
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau
| | - Juanita Rodriguez
- Australian National Insect Collection, Commonwealth Scientific & Industrial Research Organisation, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Bryan G. Fry
- Venom Evolution Lab, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
- Correspondence: (D.D.); (B.G.F.)
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4
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Therapeutic Use of Bee Venom and Potential Applications in Veterinary Medicine. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10020119. [PMID: 36851423 PMCID: PMC9965945 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10020119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Apitherapy is a branch of alternative medicine that consists of the treatment of diseases through products collected, processed, and secreted by bees, specifically pollen, propolis, honey, royal jelly, and bee venom. In traditional medicine, the virtues of honey and propolis have been well-known for centuries. The same, however, cannot be said for venom. The use of bee venom is particularly relevant for many therapeutic aspects. In recent decades, scientific studies have confirmed and enabled us to understand its properties. Bee venom has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, central nervous system inhibiting, radioprotective, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, among others. Numerous studies have often been summarised in reviews of the scientific literature that have focused on the results obtained with mouse models and their subsequent transposition to the human patient. In contrast, few reviews of scientific work on the use of bee venom in veterinary medicine exist. This review aims to take stock of the research achievements in this particular discipline, with a view to a recapitulation and stabilisation in the different research fields.
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Wings and stings: Hymenoptera on vacation. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2023; 130:429-437. [PMID: 36702244 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2023.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Traveling to different regions, one might encounter a species to which they have a known allergy, or other related and unrelated species. A first-time systemic reaction can occur while on vacation, even in those with previous asymptomatic stings. Three main groups of Hymenoptera are responsible for most sting reactions. Honey bee species are virtually identical around the world. Among social wasps (family Vespidae), the yellowjacket (genus Vespula and Dolichovespula) and hornet (genus Vespa) venoms have almost complete cross-reactivity, whereas paper wasp (genus Polistes) venoms show only partial cross-reactivity with other vespid venoms. Venom immunotherapy (VIT) confers 80% to 95% protection against related insects, though isolated species of paper wasps and yellowjackets exist in every country that may be distinct from the ones at home. Those allergic to imported fire ants (genus Solenopsis) in the United States should not react to other ant species around the world. Stinging ants belong to several unrelated subfamilies in different geographic regions, which do not have cross-reactive venom. The chances of encountering specific species of Hymenoptera at a traveler's destination vary by location, planned activities, and season. In this article, we discuss special considerations for traveling, including distribution of stinging insects around the world, risk factors for more severe reactions, ways to prepare for a trip, and when allergist examination or treatment may be helpful before travel.
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Jang H, Ghosh S, Sun S, Cheon KJ, Mohamadzade Namin S, Jung C. Chlorella-supplemented diet improves the health of honey bee (Apis mellifera). Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.922741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Nutritional stress is one of the major factors affecting the health of honey bees. Supplementing the pollen patty with microalgae enhances the protein content of the patty and therefore is supposed to improve bee’s health. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of Chlorella as a dietary supplement on the health and physiology of the honey bee (Apis mellifera). We formulated the honey bee feed by supplementing Chlorella sorokiniana, obtained commercially, with commercially available rapeseed pollen patty in different amounts—0.5, 2, 5, and 10%, and the treatment groups were named P0.5, P2, P5, and P10, respectively. Pollen patty was set as a positive control and only 50% sucrose solution (no protein) was set as a negative control. Diets were supplied ad libitum to newly emerged workers in cages; food consumption patterns; longevity; and physiology including the development of the brain in terms of protein (i.e., total amino acids), thorax muscle, fat body mass, and glands (hypopharyngeal and venom); and gene expression of nutrition-related gene vitellogenin (Vg) of honey bee at different points of time of their age were observed. The addition of Chlorella significantly increased the food consumption pattern, longevity, gland development, muscle formation, and Vg gene expression significantly in comparison to only a pollen or sugar diet. However, the response varied depending on the level of Chlorella supplementation. As depicted in most of the cases, P2, that is, the pollen diet with 2% of Chlorella supplement exhibited the best outcome in terms of all the tested parameters. Therefore, based on the results obtained in the present study, we concluded that 2% Chlorella supplementation to pollen patty could enhance the health of honey bees, which in turn improves their performance.
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Starkl P, Gaudenzio N, Marichal T, Reber LL, Sibilano R, Watzenboeck ML, Fontaine F, Mueller AC, Tsai M, Knapp S, Galli SJ. IgE antibodies increase honeybee venom responsiveness and detoxification efficiency of mast cells. Allergy 2022; 77:499-512. [PMID: 33840121 PMCID: PMC8502784 DOI: 10.1111/all.14852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In contrast to their clearly defined roles in allergic diseases, the physiologic functions of Immunoglobulin E antibodies (IgEs) and mast cells (MCs) remain enigmatic. Recent research supports the toxin hypothesis, showing that MCs and IgE-related type 2 immune responses can enhance host defense against certain noxious substances, including honeybee venom (BV). However, the mechanisms by which MCs can interfere with BV toxicity are unknown. In this study, we assessed the role of IgE and certain MC products in MC-mediated BV detoxification. METHODS We applied in vitro and in vivo fluorescence microscopyimaging, and flow cytometry, fibroblast-based toxicity assays and mass spectrometry to investigate IgE-mediated detoxification of BV cytotoxicity by mouse and human MCs in vitro. Pharmacologic strategies to interfere with MC-derived heparin and proteases helped to define the importance of specific detoxification mechanisms. RESULTS Venom-specific IgE increased the degranulation and cytokine responses of MCs to BV in vitro. Passive serum sensitization enhanced MC degranulation in vivo. IgE-activated mouse or human MCs exhibited enhanced potential for detoxifying BV by both proteolytic degradation and heparin-related interference with toxicity. Mediators released by IgE-activated human MCs efficiently degraded multiple BV toxins. CONCLUSIONS Our results both reveal that IgE sensitization enhances the MC's ability to detoxify BV and also assign efficient toxin-neutralizing activity to MC-derived heparin and proteases. Our study thus highlights the potential importance of IgE, MCs, and particular MC products in defense against BV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Starkl
- Laboratory of Infection Biology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- CeMM - Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicolas Gaudenzio
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, INSERM UMR1291, CNRS, UMR5051, University of Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Thomas Marichal
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- GIGA-Research and Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liege, Liege, Belgium
| | - Laurent L. Reber
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, INSERM UMR1291, CNRS, UMR5051, University of Toulouse III, Toulouse, France
| | - Riccardo Sibilano
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Martin L. Watzenboeck
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Frédéric Fontaine
- CeMM - Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - André C. Mueller
- CeMM - Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mindy Tsai
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Sylvia Knapp
- Laboratory of Infection Biology, Department of Medicine I, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- CeMM - Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stephen J. Galli
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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Kida M, Nakamura T, Fujiwara Y, Nakamura M, Murata T. PGD 2 /CRTH2 signaling promotes acquired immunity against bee venom by enhancing IgE production. FASEB J 2021; 35:e21616. [PMID: 33978990 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002748rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
IgE-dependent/independent activation of mast cell (MC) has been assumed to play a host defensive role against venom injection in skin. However, its detailed mechanisms remain unknown. We aimed to investigate the contribution of MC-derived prostaglandin D2 (PGD2 )-mediated signaling in host defense against bee venom (BV). To achieve this, we utilized gene-deficient mice of a PGD2 receptor, chemoattractant receptor-homologous molecule expressed on Th2 cells (CRTH2). We first confirmed that subcutaneous injection of BV produced PGD2 equally in wild-type (WT) and CRTH2-deficient (Crth2-/- ) mice skins. The BV injection dropped body temperature and impaired kidney equally in both lines of mice. In WT mice, pre-injection of BV (3 weeks) significantly inhibited the hypothermia and kidney impairment caused by second BV injection. In contrast, this pre-injection was not effective for the second BV injection in Crth2-/- mice. We also found that BV injections increased serum BV-specific IgE levels in WT mice, and its serum transfused mice improved the BV-induced hypothermia in naïve WT mice. In contrast, serum BV-specific IgE level was significantly lower in Crth2-/- mice. FACS analysis showed the BV injection stimulate migration of dendritic cells (DCs) into regional lymph nodes in WT mice. In Crth2-/- mice, its number was significantly smaller than that of WT mice. In conclusion, PGD2 /CRTH2 signaling plays defensive role against second BV injection. This signaling promotes BV-specific IgE production at least partially by promoting DCs migration into regional lymph node.
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Affiliation(s)
- Misato Kida
- Animal Radiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuro Nakamura
- Animal Radiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Fujiwara
- Animal Radiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masataka Nakamura
- Human Gene Sciences Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahisa Murata
- Animal Radiology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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Scaccabarozzi D, Dods K, Le TT, Gummer JPA, Lussu M, Milne L, Campbell T, Wafujian BP, Priddis C. Factors driving the compositional diversity of Apis mellifera bee venom from a Corymbia calophylla (marri) ecosystem, Southwestern Australia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0253838. [PMID: 34191849 PMCID: PMC8244862 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0253838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bee venom (BV) is the most valuable product harvested from honeybees ($30 - $300 USD per gram) but marginally produced in apiculture. Though widely studied and used in alternative medicine, recent efforts in BV research have focused on its therapeutic and cosmetic applications, for the treatment of degenerative and infectious diseases. The protein and peptide composition of BV is integral to its bioactivity, yet little research has investigated the ecological factors influencing the qualitative and quantitative variations in the BV composition. Bee venom from Apis mellifera ligustica (Apidae), collected over one flowering season of Corymbia calophylla (Myrtaceae; marri) was characterized to test if the protein composition and amount of BV variation between sites is influenced by i) ecological factors (temperature, relative humidity, flowering index and stage, nectar production); ii) management (nutritional supply and movement of hives); and/or iii) behavioural factors. BV samples from 25 hives across a 200 km-latitudinal range in Southwestern Australia were collected using stimulatory devices. We studied the protein composition of BV by mass spectrometry, using a bottom-up proteomics approach. Peptide identification utilised sequence homology to the A. mellifera reference genome, assembling a BV peptide profile representative of 99 proteins, including a number of previously uncharacterised BV proteins. Among ecological factors, BV weight and protein diversity varied by temperature and marri flowering stage but not by index, this latter suggesting that inter and intra-year flowering index should be further explored to better appreciate this influence. Site influenced BV protein diversity and weight difference in two sites. Bee behavioural response to the stimulator device impacted both the protein profile and weight, whereas management factors did not. Continued research using a combination of proteomics, and bio-ecological approaches is recommended to further understand causes of BV variation in order to standardise and improve the harvest practice and product quality attributes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Scaccabarozzi
- Research Service, ChemCentre, Resources and Chemistry Precinct, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Kenneth Dods
- Research and Innovation Division, ChemCentre, Resources and Chemistry Precinct, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Thao T. Le
- School of Science, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Joel P. A. Gummer
- Research and Innovation Division, ChemCentre, Resources and Chemistry Precinct, Bentley, WA, Australia
- School of Science, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Michele Lussu
- Regional Institute for Floriculture (IRF), San Remo, Italy
| | - Lynne Milne
- Research Service, ChemCentre, Resources and Chemistry Precinct, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | - Tristan Campbell
- Research Service, ChemCentre, Resources and Chemistry Precinct, Bentley, WA, Australia
| | | | - Colin Priddis
- Research and Innovation Division, ChemCentre, Resources and Chemistry Precinct, Bentley, WA, Australia
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Lethality of Honey Bee Stings to Heavily Armored Hornets. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10060484. [PMID: 34072577 PMCID: PMC8229339 DOI: 10.3390/biology10060484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The heat ball defense of honey bees against their sympatric hornet predators is a classic and spectacular outcome of a co-evolutionary race. Hundreds of bees can encapsulate a hornet within a large ball that kills it with elevated heat. However, the role of stinging in this defense has been discounted, even though sting venom is an important weapon in bees. Surprisingly, no studies have tested the role of bee sting venom alone or in conjunction with elevated temperature on hornet survival. We surveyed dead Vespa velutina hornets found near and inside Apis cerana colonies and found stings retained in hornet bodies, most often in an intersegmental neck-like region, the veracervix. Experimentally stinging hornets in this region with A. cerana and Apis mellifera guards significantly increased hornet mortality. The combination of sting venom and elevated heat ball temperature (44 °C) was the most lethal, although there was no synergistic interaction between sting venom and temperature. As expected, hornet mortality increased when they were stung more often. The average amount of venom per insect species and the length of stinger lancets correlated with insect mass. Sting venom thus remains important in the arms race between bees and their hornet predators.
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11
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The anticoagulant effect of Apis mellifera phospholipase A 2 is inhibited by CORM-2 via a carbon monoxide-independent mechanism. J Thromb Thrombolysis 2020; 49:100-107. [PMID: 31679116 DOI: 10.1007/s11239-019-01980-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Bee venom phospholipase A2 (PLA2) has potential for significant morbidity. Ruthenium (Ru)-based carbon monoxide releasing molecules (CORM) inhibit snake venoms that are anticoagulant and contain PLA2. In addition to modulating heme-bearing proteins with carbon monoxide, these CORM generate reactive Ru species that form adducts with histamine residues resulting in changes in protein function. This study sought to identify anticoagulant properties of bee venom PLA2 via catalysis of plasma phospholipids required for thrombin generation. Another goal was to determine if Ru-based CORM inhibit bee venom PLA2 via carbon monoxide release or via potential binding of reactive Ru species to a key histidine residue in the catalytic site of the enzyme. Anticoagulant activity of bee venom PLA2 was assessed via thrombelastography with normal plasma. Bee venom PLA2 was then exposed to different CORM and a metheme forming agent and anticoagulant activity was reassessed. Using Ru, boron and manganese-based CORM and a metheme forming agent, it was demonstrated that it was unlikely that carbon monoxide interaction with a heme group attached to PLA2 was responsible for inhibition of anticoagulant activity by Ru-based CORM. Exposure of PLA2 to a Ru-based CORM in the presence of histidine-rich human albumin resulted in loss of inhibition of PLA2. Ru-based CORM likely inhibit bee venom PLA2 anticoagulant activity via formation of reactive Ru species that bind to histidine residues of the enzyme.
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12
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de Roodt AR, Lanari LC, Lago NR, Bustillo S, Litwin S, Morón-Goñi F, Gould EG, van Grootheest JH, Dokmetjian JC, Dolab JA, Irazú L, Damin CF. Toxicological study of bee venom (Apis mellifera mellifera) from different regions of the province of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Toxicon 2020; 188:27-38. [PMID: 33007351 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Samples of Apis mellifera mellifera venom from different hives in two regions of the Buenos Aires province and its pool were analyzed for their lethal potency, myotoxic, defibrinogenating, hemolytic and inflammatory-edematizing activity and for the histological alterations they produce in the heart, lungs, kidneys, skeletal muscle and liver of mice. In vitro studies focused on the venom's hemolytic activity in different systems and species (horse, man, sheep and rabbit), the cytotoxicity in cellular lines, and on the proteolytic and coagulant activity in plasma and fibrinogen. Hemolytic activity, either observed in vitro or in vivo, showed similar toxicity levels for all samples. Erythrocytes of different species varied in their sensitivity to the venom pool, equines being the most sensitive and sheep the most resistant to direct hemolytic action. Local and systemic myotoxicity was evidenced by either the elevation of serum creatine kinase and/or histopathological lesions, observed in different muscles. All samples caused significant pathological alterations; pulmonary, cardiac, renal and skeletal muscle lesions were substantive and can be related to the pathophysiological mechanisms of envenomation. The venoms from different apiaries and regions of the Buenos Aires province showed very similar toxicological characteristics. These results suggest that severity of envenomation in case of a swarming could therefore be more related to the number of bees than to the differential toxicity of the venom from different regions of the province. This is the first study on the toxicity and toxicological characteristics of Apis mellifera venom in Argentina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adolfo R de Roodt
- Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos, ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Ministerio de Salud, Argentina; Primera Cátedra de Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Centro de Patología Experimental y Aplicada, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Laura C Lanari
- Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos, ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Ministerio de Salud, Argentina
| | - Néstor R Lago
- Centro de Patología Experimental y Aplicada, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Soledad Bustillo
- Grupo de Investigaciones Biológicas y Moleculares (GIByM) - IQUIBA, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina
| | - Silvana Litwin
- Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos, ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Ministerio de Salud, Argentina
| | - Fernando Morón-Goñi
- Primera Cátedra de Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Jantine H van Grootheest
- Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos, ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Ministerio de Salud, Argentina
| | - José Ch Dokmetjian
- Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos, ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Ministerio de Salud, Argentina
| | - Jorge A Dolab
- Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos, ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Ministerio de Salud, Argentina
| | - Lucía Irazú
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Infecciosas - ANLIS "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Ministerio de Salud, Argentina
| | - Carlos F Damin
- Primera Cátedra de Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Melittin from Apis florea Venom as a Promising Therapeutic Agent for Skin Cancer Treatment. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9080517. [PMID: 32823904 PMCID: PMC7460526 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9080517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Melittin, a major component found in bee venom, is produced by the Apis species of the honey bee. In this study, the effect of melittin derived from Apis florea (Mel-AF), which is a wild honey bee species that is indigenous to Thailand, was investigated against human malignant melanoma (A375) cells. In this study, Mel-AF exhibited considerable potential in the anti-proliferative action of A375 cells. Subsequently, the cellular mechanism of Mel-AF that induced cell death was investigated in terms of apoptosis. As a result, gene and protein expression levels, which indicated the activation of cytochrome-c release and caspase-9 expression, eventually triggered the release of the caspase-3 executioner upon Mel-AF. We then determined that apoptosis-mediated cell death was carried out through the intrinsic mitochondrial pathway. Moreover, advanced abilities, including cell motility and invasion, were significantly suppressed. Mel-AF manipulated the actin arrangement via the trapping of stress fibers that were found underneath the membrane, which resulted in the defective actin cytoskeleton organization. Consequently, the expression of EGFR, a binding protein to F-actin, was also found to be suppressed. This outcome strongly supports the effects of Mel-AF in the inhibition of progressive malignant activity through the disruption of actin cytoskeleton-EGFR interaction and the EGFR signaling system. Thus, the findings of our current study indicate the potential usefulness of Mel-AF in cancer treatments as an apoptosis inducer and a potential actin-targeting agent.
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Honeybee Stings in the Era of Killer Bees: Anaphylaxis and Toxic Envenomation. Am J Med 2020; 133:621-626. [PMID: 31715166 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2019.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Twenty-six years after the arrival of "killer bees" in Arizona, the entire state with the exception of high elevations in the north is populated with this bee variety and 11 people have died at the scene of massive bee attacks. METHODS Because of the aggressive behavior of these bees we studied bee stings reported to the Arizona Poison and Drug Information Center. The center received 399 calls regarding 312 victims of bee stings from January 2017 to June 2019. Calls originated from private residences and emergency centers. RESULTS Stings occurred at victims' home residences in 272 (84.7%) of cases and 24 (7.5%) in public areas; 251 people suffered 1 sting; 42 individuals, 2-10 stings, 4 had 11-49 stings, and 13 individuals had >50 stings (so-called massive stinging). Three individuals were admitted to intensive care units (ICU) and one 35-year-old man died of anaphylaxis after 1 sting; moderate clinical effects occurred in 32 individuals including 6 admitted to the hospital but not in the intensive care unit. Anaphylaxis occurred in 30 (9.6%) of individuals, 16 receiving 1 sting. Toxic effects, tachycardia, elevated creatinine, or rhabdomyolysis occurred in 13 (4.2%) individuals. CONCLUSIONS In the past, individuals stung more than 50 times were beekeepers working with European honeybees, whereas, in the current era, single as well as massive stings are the result of feral "killer bees." This change in epidemiology requires a new approach to sting victims: those with massive stinging should be evaluated and observed for anaphylaxis and serial laboratory values obtained for days to detect the toxic effects of envenomation.
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Schmidt JO. Pain and Lethality Induced by Insect Stings: An Exploratory and Correlational Study. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11070427. [PMID: 31330893 PMCID: PMC6669698 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11070427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain is a natural bioassay for detecting and quantifying biological activities of venoms. The painfulness of stings delivered by ants, wasps, and bees can be easily measured in the field or lab using the stinging insect pain scale that rates the pain intensity from 1 to 4, with 1 being minor pain, and 4 being extreme, debilitating, excruciating pain. The painfulness of stings of 96 species of stinging insects and the lethalities of the venoms of 90 species was determined and utilized for pinpointing future directions for investigating venoms having pharmaceutically active principles that could benefit humanity. The findings suggest several under- or unexplored insect venoms worthy of future investigations, including: those that have exceedingly painful venoms, yet with extremely low lethality—tarantula hawk wasps (Pepsis) and velvet ants (Mutillidae); those that have extremely lethal venoms, yet induce very little pain—the ants, Daceton and Tetraponera; and those that have venomous stings and are both painful and lethal—the ants Pogonomyrmex, Paraponera, Myrmecia, Neoponera, and the social wasps Synoeca, Agelaia, and Brachygastra. Taken together, and separately, sting pain and venom lethality point to promising directions for mining of pharmaceutically active components derived from insect venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin O Schmidt
- Southwestern Biological Institute, 1961 W. Brichta Dr., Tucson, AZ 85745, USA.
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Neurotherapeutic Effects of Bee Venom in a Rotenone-Induced Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease. NEUROPHYSIOLOGY+ 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11062-019-09777-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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17
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Perez-Riverol A, Lasa AM, Dos Santos-Pinto JRA, Palma MS. Insect venom phospholipases A1 and A2: Roles in the envenoming process and allergy. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2019; 105:10-24. [PMID: 30582958 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2018.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Insect venom phospholipases have been identified in nearly all clinically relevant social Hymenoptera, including bees, wasps and ants. Among other biological roles, during the envenoming process these enzymes cause the disruption of cellular membranes and induce hypersensitive reactions, including life threatening anaphylaxis. While phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is a predominant component of bee venoms, phospholipase A1 (PLA1) is highly abundant in wasps and ants. The pronounced prevalence of IgE-mediated reactivity to these allergens in sensitized patients emphasizes their important role as major elicitors of Hymenoptera venom allergy (HVA). PLA1 and -A2 represent valuable marker allergens for differentiation of genuine sensitizations to bee and/or wasp venoms from cross-reactivity. Moreover, in massive attacks, insect venom phospholipases often cause several pathologies that can lead to fatalities. This review summarizes the available data related to structure, model of enzymatic activity and pathophysiological roles during envenoming process of insect venom phospholipases A1 and -A2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amilcar Perez-Riverol
- Center of the Study of Social Insects, Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rio Claro, SP, 13500, Brazil
| | - Alexis Musacchio Lasa
- Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Biomedical Research Division, Department of System Biology, Ave. 31, e/158 and 190, P.O. Box 6162, Cubanacan, Playa, Havana, 10600, Cuba
| | - José Roberto Aparecido Dos Santos-Pinto
- Center of the Study of Social Insects, Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rio Claro, SP, 13500, Brazil
| | - Mario Sergio Palma
- Center of the Study of Social Insects, Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences of Rio Claro, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rio Claro, SP, 13500, Brazil.
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Clinical consequences of toxic envenomations by Hymenoptera. Toxicon 2018; 150:96-104. [PMID: 29782951 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Many familiar Hymenoptera are brightly colored and can sting painfully-thus, their threat and clinical importance may be exaggerated. Most stinging insects only sting to defend themselves or their colonies from predators. The clinical nature of Hymenoptera envenomations contrasts that of other venomous animals, including other arthropods, primarily because allergic reaction, not direct intoxication, is the usual main concern. This review focuses mainly on the clinical features of direct toxicity to Hymenoptera envenomations, which can induce a high incidence of acute renal failure, liver failure, multiple organ failures, and death. Toxic mass envenomations by honeybees usually entail many hundreds or more stings per victim. In contrast to honeybee toxic envenomations, hornet sting envenomations can be clinically threatening with only 20-200 stings needed to cause kidney and other organ failures. Many lethal envenomations by honeybees occur in rural areas in the New World and Africa and are not recorded or documented. In contrast, deaths by hornets occur mainly to Asia. The most frequent and important envenomating taxa are honeybees, hornets, yellowjacket wasps, paper wasps, fire ants, and jack jumper ants. Occasional envenomating taxa include bumblebees, bullet ants, harvester ants, solitary wasps, solitary bees, and various ants of lesser clinical importance. Envenomations by Hymenoptera usually can be avoided if one considers that bees, wasps and ants "view" us as potential threats or predators, and that with information about the biology of stinging Hymenoptera, humans can minimize adverse incidents.
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Kularatne SAM, Shahmy S, Rathnayake SS, Dawson AH. Clinico-epidemiology of arthropod stings and bites in primary hospitals of North Western province of Sri Lanka. Clin Toxicol (Phila) 2018; 56:880-885. [PMID: 29508631 DOI: 10.1080/15563650.2018.1447120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Arthropod stinging and bites are common environmental hazards in Sri Lanka. However, their medical importance has not been fully evaluated yet. This study aims to study the burden, epidemiology, and outcome of stings and bites in primary hospitals in the Kurunegala district in North Western Province (NWP) of Sri Lanka. METHODOLOGY The study was conducted one year from 25th May 2013 to 25th May 2014. Details of all stings and bites admissions and their outcomes were retrospectively extracted from hospital records in all 44 primary hospitals in the district. RESULTS There were 623 stings and bites with population incidence of 38/100,000 (95% CI 27-52). There were no deaths. Median age was 38 years (IQR: 19-53 years), and 351 (56%) were males. Most of stings and bites (75%) occurred in the daytime. Median time to hospital arrival was 55 minutes (IQR: 30 min to 2 h). The offending arthropods had been identified in 557 (89%) cases, of them, 357 (57%) were Hymenoptera (hornet and bees), 99 centipedes, 61 spiders and 40 scorpions. Local pain occurred in 346 (56%) cases - centipede 69 (70%), Scorpion 24 (60%), spider 36 (59%), Hymenoptera 187 (52%) and unidentified 30 (45%). Hymenoptera stings and spider bites occurred between 06 am to 12 noon, and scorpion stings and centipede bites mostly occurred between 06 pm to 12 midnight. Mild, moderate to severe anaphylaxis reactions occurred in 173 (28%) patients including 110 Hymenoptera stings - mild 39, moderate 62 and severe 9. From primary hospitals, 53(9%) cases had been transferred to tertiary care units for further management. Of them, 41 cases were Hymenoptera stings and 24 (58%) of them had mild, moderate to severe anaphylaxis. In the entire group, 27% severe cases received adrenaline. CONCLUSIONS The primary hospitals in NW province of Sri Lanka manage large numbers of arthropod stings and bites. These include Hymenoptera (hornet and bee), centipedes, spiders, and scorpions. Pain, swellings and anaphylactic reactions were the most common adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Seyed Shahmy
- b South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration , University of Peradeniya , Peradeniya , Sri Lanka
| | - Shantha S Rathnayake
- b South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration , University of Peradeniya , Peradeniya , Sri Lanka
| | - Andrew H Dawson
- b South Asian Clinical Toxicology Research Collaboration , University of Peradeniya , Peradeniya , Sri Lanka.,c Central Clinical School , University of Sydney , Sydney , Australia
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Somwongin S, Chantawannakul P, Chaiyana W. Antioxidant activity and irritation property of venoms from Apis species. Toxicon 2018; 145:32-39. [PMID: 29499244 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.02.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2017] [Revised: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Pharmacological effects of bee venom has been reported, however, it has been restricted to the bee venom collected from European honey bee (Apis mellifera). The aim of the present study was to compare the antioxidant activities and irritation properties of venoms collected from four different Apis species in Thailand, which includes Apis cerena (Asian cavity nesting honeybee), Apis florea (dwarf honeybee), Apis dorsata (giant honeybee), and A. mellifera. Melittin content of each bee venom extracts was investigated by using high-performance liquid chromatography. Ferric reducing antioxidant power, 2, 2'-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), and 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl assay were used to determine the antioxidant activity, whereas, hen's egg test chorioallantoic membrane assay was used to determine the irritation property of each bee venom extracts. Melittin was the major constituent in all bee venom extracts. The melittin content in A. dorsata, A. mellifera, A. florea, and A. cerena were 95.8 ± 3.2%, 76.5 ± 1.9%, 66.3 ± 8.6%, and 56.8 ± 1.8%, respectively. Bee venom extract from A. dorsata possessed the highest antioxidant activity with the inhibition of 41.1 ± 2.2% against DPPH, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity of 10.21 ± 0.74 mM Trolox/mg and equivalent concentration (EC1) of 0.35 ± 0.02 mM FeSO4/mg. Bee venom extract from A. mellifera exhibited the highest irritation, followed by A. cerena, A. dorsata, and A. florea, respectively. Melittin was the compound responsible for the irritation property of bee venom extracts since it could induce severe irritation (irritation score was 13.7 ± 0.5, at the concentration of 2 mg/ml). The extract from A. dorsata which possessed the highest antioxidant activity showed no irritation up to the concentration of 0.1 mg/ml. Therefore, bee venom extract from A. dorsata at the concentration not more than 0.1 mg/ml would be suggested for using as cosmetic ingredients since it possessed the highest antioxidant activity with no irritation. This study is the first report to compare the bee venom extracts from different Apis species and display their potential application of bee venom extracts in cosmetic products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvimol Somwongin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Panuwan Chantawannakul
- Bee Protection Laboratory, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand; International College of Digital Innovation, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Wantida Chaiyana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand; Research Center of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand.
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21
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Diao Q, Sun L, Zheng H, Zeng Z, Wang S, Xu S, Zheng H, Chen Y, Shi Y, Wang Y, Meng F, Sang Q, Cao L, Liu F, Zhu Y, Li W, Li Z, Dai C, Yang M, Chen S, Chen R, Zhang S, Evans JD, Huang Q, Liu J, Hu F, Su S, Wu J. Genomic and transcriptomic analysis of the Asian honeybee Apis cerana provides novel insights into honeybee biology. Sci Rep 2018; 8:822. [PMID: 29339745 PMCID: PMC5770391 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-17338-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The Asian honeybee Apis cerana is one of two bee species that have been commercially kept with immense economic value. Here we present the analysis of genomic sequence and transcriptomic exploration for A. cerana as well as the comparative genomic analysis of the Asian honeybee and the European honeybee A. mellifera. The genome and RNA-seq data yield new insights into the behavioral and physiological resistance to the parasitic mite Varroa the evolution of antimicrobial peptides, and the genetic basis for labor division in A. cerana. Comparison of genes between the two sister species revealed genes specific to A. cerana, 54.5% of which have no homology to any known proteins. The observation that A. cerana displayed significantly more vigilant grooming behaviors to the presence of Varroa than A. mellifera in conjunction with gene expression analysis suggests that parasite-defensive grooming in A. cerana is likely triggered not only by exogenous stimuli through visual and olfactory detection of the parasite, but also by genetically endogenous processes that periodically activates a bout of grooming to remove the ectoparasite. This information provides a valuable platform to facilitate the traits unique to A. cerana as well as those shared with other social bees for health improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyun Diao
- Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 10093, China
| | - Liangxian Sun
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.,Molecular Biology and Pharmacology Key Laboratory of Fujian Advanced Education, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou, Fujian, 362000, China
| | - Huajun Zheng
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, Chinese National Human Genome Center at Shanghai, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Zhijiang Zeng
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330045, China
| | - Shengyue Wang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, Chinese National Human Genome Center at Shanghai, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shufa Xu
- Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 10093, China
| | - Huoqing Zheng
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yanping Chen
- USDA-ARS Beltsville Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland, 20705, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Shi
- Honeybee Research Institute, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330045, China
| | - Yuezhu Wang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, Chinese National Human Genome Center at Shanghai, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Fei Meng
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Qingliang Sang
- Molecular Biology and Pharmacology Key Laboratory of Fujian Advanced Education, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou, Fujian, 362000, China
| | - Lianfei Cao
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Fang Liu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yongqiang Zhu
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, Chinese National Human Genome Center at Shanghai, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Wenfeng Li
- USDA-ARS Beltsville Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland, 20705, USA
| | - Zhiguo Li
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Congjie Dai
- Molecular Biology and Pharmacology Key Laboratory of Fujian Advanced Education, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou, Fujian, 362000, China
| | - Minjun Yang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, Chinese National Human Genome Center at Shanghai, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Shenglu Chen
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Runsheng Chen
- Bioinformatics Laboratory and National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Shaowu Zhang
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Vision Science, Research School of Biology, College of Medicine, Biology and Environment, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Jay D Evans
- USDA-ARS Beltsville Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland, 20705, USA
| | - Qiang Huang
- USDA-ARS Beltsville Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland, 20705, USA
| | - Jie Liu
- USDA-ARS Beltsville Bee Research Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland, 20705, USA
| | - Fuliang Hu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Songkun Su
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China. .,College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China.
| | - Jie Wu
- Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 10093, China.
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Massive attack of honeybee on macaws ( Ara ararauna and Ara chloropterus ) in Brazil – A case report. Toxicon 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Silva GBD, Vasconcelos AG, Rocha AMT, Vasconcelos VRD, Barros JD, Fujishima JS, Ferreira NB, Barros EJG, Daher EDF. Acute kidney injury complicating bee stings - a review. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2017; 59:e25. [PMID: 28591253 PMCID: PMC5459532 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946201759025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bee stings can cause severe reactions and have caused many victims in the last
years. Allergic reactions can be triggered by a single sting and the greater the
number of stings, the worse the prognosis. The poisoning effects can be systemic
and can eventually cause death. The poison components are melitin, apamin,
peptide 401, phospholipase A2, hyaluronidase, histamine, dopamine, and
norepinephrine, with melitin being the main lethal component. Acute kidney
injury (AKI) can be observed in patients suffering from bee stings and this is
due to multiple factors, such as intravascular hemolysis, rhabdomyolysis,
hypotension and direct toxicity of the venom components to the renal tubules.
Arterial hypotension plays an important role in this type of AKI, leading to
ischemic renal lesion. The most commonly identified biopsy finding in these
cases is acute tubular necrosis, which can occur due to both, ischemic injury
and the nephrotoxicity of venom components. Hemolysis and rhabdomyolysis
reported in many cases in the literature, were demonstrated by elevated serum
levels of indirect bilirubin and creatine kinase. The severity of AKI seems to
be associated with the number of stings, since creatinine levels were higher, in
most cases, when there were more than 1,000 stings. The aim of this study is to
present an updated review of AKI associated with bee stings, including the
currently advised clinical approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraldo Bezerra da Silva
- Universidade de Fortaleza, Faculdade de Medicina, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Adolfo Gomes Vasconcelos
- Universidade de Fortaleza, Faculdade de Medicina, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Amanda Maria Timbó Rocha
- Universidade de Fortaleza, Faculdade de Medicina, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | | | - João de Barros
- Universidade Federal do Amapá, Hospital de Clínicas Dr. Alberto Lima, Macapá, Amapá, Brazil
| | | | | | - Elvino José Guardão Barros
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth De Francesco Daher
- Universidade Federal do Ceará, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Medicina Clínica, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
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Danneels EL, Van Vaerenbergh M, Debyser G, Devreese B, de Graaf DC. Honeybee venom proteome profile of queens and winter bees as determined by a mass spectrometric approach. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 7:4468-83. [PMID: 26529016 PMCID: PMC4663515 DOI: 10.3390/toxins7114468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Revised: 10/20/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Venoms of invertebrates contain an enormous diversity of proteins, peptides, and other classes of substances. Insect venoms are characterized by a large interspecific variation resulting in extended lists of venom compounds. The venom composition of several hymenopterans also shows different intraspecific variation. For instance, venom from different honeybee castes, more specifically queens and workers, shows quantitative and qualitative variation, while the environment, like seasonal changes, also proves to be an important factor. The present study aimed at an in-depth analysis of the intraspecific variation in the honeybee venom proteome. In summer workers, the recent list of venom proteins resulted from merging combinatorial peptide ligand library sample pretreatment and targeted tandem mass spectrometry realized with a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer (FT-ICR MS/MS). Now, the same technique was used to determine the venom proteome of queens and winter bees, enabling us to compare it with that of summer bees. In total, 34 putative venom toxins were found, of which two were never described in honeybee venoms before. Venom from winter workers did not contain toxins that were not present in queens or summer workers, while winter worker venom lacked the allergen Api m 12, also known as vitellogenin. Venom from queen bees, on the other hand, was lacking six of the 34 venom toxins compared to worker bees, while it contained two new venom toxins, in particularly serine proteinase stubble and antithrombin-III. Although people are hardly stung by honeybees during winter or by queen bees, these newly identified toxins should be taken into account in the characterization of a putative allergic response against Apis mellifera stings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen L Danneels
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Matthias Van Vaerenbergh
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Griet Debyser
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Bart Devreese
- Laboratory of Protein Biochemistry and Biomolecular Engineering, Ghent University, K.L. Ledeganckstraat 35, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Dirk C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Molecular Entomology and Bee Pathology, Ghent University, Krijgslaan 281 S2, B-9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Nipate SS, Hurali PB, Ghaisas MM. Evaluation of anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and anti-arthritic activities of IndianApis dorsatabee venom in experimental animals: biochemical, histological, and radiological assessment. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2015; 37:171-84. [DOI: 10.3109/08923973.2015.1009996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Park D, Jung JW, Choi BS, Jayakodi M, Lee J, Lim J, Yu Y, Choi YS, Lee ML, Park Y, Choi IY, Yang TJ, Edwards OR, Nah G, Kwon HW. Uncovering the novel characteristics of Asian honey bee, Apis cerana, by whole genome sequencing. BMC Genomics 2015; 16:1. [PMID: 25553907 PMCID: PMC4326529 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-16-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 439] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The honey bee is an important model system for increasing understanding of molecular and neural mechanisms underlying social behaviors relevant to the agricultural industry and basic science. The western honey bee, Apis mellifera, has served as a model species, and its genome sequence has been published. In contrast, the genome of the Asian honey bee, Apis cerana, has not yet been sequenced. A. cerana has been raised in Asian countries for thousands of years and has brought considerable economic benefits to the apicultural industry. A cerana has divergent biological traits compared to A. mellifera and it has played a key role in maintaining biodiversity in eastern and southern Asia. Here we report the first whole genome sequence of A. cerana. Results Using de novo assembly methods, we produced a 238 Mbp draft of the A. cerana genome and generated 10,651 genes. A.cerana-specific genes were analyzed to better understand the novel characteristics of this honey bee species. Seventy-two percent of the A. cerana-specific genes had more than one GO term, and 1,696 enzymes were categorized into 125 pathways. Genes involved in chemoreception and immunity were carefully identified and compared to those from other sequenced insect models. These included 10 gustatory receptors, 119 odorant receptors, 10 ionotropic receptors, and 160 immune-related genes. Conclusions This first report of the whole genome sequence of A. cerana provides resources for comparative sociogenomics, especially in the field of social insect communication. These important tools will contribute to a better understanding of the complex behaviors and natural biology of the Asian honey bee and to anticipate its future evolutionary trajectory. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/1471-2164-16-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Gyoungju Nah
- Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea.
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Mughal MN, Abbas G, Saqib M, Muhammad G. Massive attack by honeybees in a German shepherd dog: description of a fatal case and review of the literature. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2014; 20:55. [PMID: 25584045 PMCID: PMC4290391 DOI: 10.1186/1678-9199-20-55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, a fatal case caused by honeybee (Apis cerana) stings was documented in a female German shepherd dog that was presented at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan. Characteristic clinical signs included hematuria, hematemesis, incoordination and convulsions along with evidence of massive honeybee attack supported the diagnosis of envenomation. The dog was treated with dexamethasone and diphenhydramine, but it did not respond to therapy and died. This outcome could be avoided if we had a bee antivenom available for treating envenomated patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mudassar Niaz Mughal
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery (CMS), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences (FVS), University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), Faisalabad, 38040 Punjab Pakistan
| | - Ghazanfar Abbas
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery (CMS), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences (FVS), University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), Faisalabad, 38040 Punjab Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Saqib
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery (CMS), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences (FVS), University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), Faisalabad, 38040 Punjab Pakistan
| | - Ghulam Muhammad
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery (CMS), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences (FVS), University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), Faisalabad, 38040 Punjab Pakistan
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Evolutionary responses of solitary and social Hymenoptera to predation by primates and overwhelmingly powerful vertebrate predators. J Hum Evol 2014; 71:12-9. [PMID: 24666602 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhevol.2013.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2012] [Revised: 04/19/2013] [Accepted: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Insects provide an important part of the diet of primates, including hominins. Investigations of insectivory in primates has focused primarily on the value of insects in the diet, and on the means of obtaining the insects, with little attention devoted to the predator-prey relationship itself and less to evolutionary aspects of insect defense against predatory vertebrates, including primates. Data indicate that, far from being a passive half of the relationship, insects in general, and stinging Hymenoptera in particular, are active participants that have greatly influenced the relationship. Predators have been a strong component of the selection pressure in the evolution of painful and toxic bee, wasp, and ant stings and these insects, in turn, have influenced hunting behavior and learning in at least higher primates. The special example of honey bees and humans is highlighted. Both humans and the bees have benefitted from a relationship that represents an unprecedented example of a predator-prey interaction evolving recently into facultative mutualism.
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Park D, Jung JW, Lee MO, Lee SY, Kim B, Jin HJ, Kim J, Ahn YJ, Lee KW, Song YS, Hong S, Womack JE, Kwon HW. Functional characterization of naturally occurring melittin peptide isoforms in two honey bee species, Apis mellifera and Apis cerana. Peptides 2014; 53:185-93. [PMID: 24512991 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2014.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Revised: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Insect-derived antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) have diverse effects on antimicrobial properties and pharmacological activities such as anti-inflammation and anticancer properties. Naturally occurring genetic polymorphism have a direct and/or indirect influence on pharmacological effect of AMPs, therefore information on single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) occurring in natural AMPs provides an important clue to therapeutic applications. Here we identified nucleotide polymorphisms in melittin gene of honey bee populations, which is one of the potent AMP in bee venoms. We found that the novel SNP of melittin gene exists in these two honey bee species, Apis mellifera and Apis cerana. Nine polymorphisms were identified within the coding region of the melittin gene, of which one polymorphism that resulted in serine (Ser) to asparagine (Asp) substitution that can potentially effect on biological activities of melittin peptide. Serine-substituted melittin (Mel-S) showed more cytotoxic effect than asparagine-substituted melittin (Mel-N) against E. coli. Also, Mel-N and Mel-S had different inhibitory effects on the production of inflammatory factors such as IL-6 and TNF-α in BV-2 cells. Moreover, Mel-S showed stronger cytotoxic activities than Mel-N peptide against two human ovarian cancer cell lines. Using carbon nanotube-based transistor, we here characterized that Mel-S interacted with small unilamellar liposomes more strongly than Mel-N. Taken together, our present study demonstrates that there exist different characteristics of the gene frequency and the biological activities of the melittin peptide in two honey bee species, Apis mellifera and A. cerana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doori Park
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Je Won Jung
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi Ok Lee
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Si Young Lee
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Boyun Kim
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Jun Jin
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-747, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiyoung Kim
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Joon Ahn
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki Won Lee
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Sang Song
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghun Hong
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-747, Republic of Korea
| | - James E Womack
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, United States
| | - Hyung Wook Kwon
- WCU Biomodulation Major, Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, College of Agriculture & Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Republic of Korea.
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Kularatne S, Senanayake N. Venomous snake bites, scorpions, and spiders. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2014; 120:987-1001. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-7020-4087-0.00066-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Nakamura RK, Fenty RK, Bianco D. Presumptive immune-mediated thrombocytopenia secondary to massive Africanized bee envenomation in a dog. J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio) 2013; 23:652-6. [DOI: 10.1111/vec.12120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2012] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Reid K. Nakamura
- Advanced Veterinary Care Center; 15926 Hawthorne Blvd Lawndale CA 90260
| | - Renee K. Fenty
- Internal Medicine Department; Veterinary Specialists of the Valley; Woodland Hills, 22123 Ventura Boulevard CA 91364
| | - Domenico Bianco
- Internal Medicine Department; Veterinary Specialists of the Valley; Woodland Hills, 22123 Ventura Boulevard CA 91364
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Marichal T, Starkl P, Reber LL, Kalesnikoff J, Oettgen HC, Tsai M, Metz M, Galli SJ. A beneficial role for immunoglobulin E in host defense against honeybee venom. Immunity 2013; 39:963-75. [PMID: 24210352 PMCID: PMC4164235 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2013.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/21/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Allergies are widely considered to be misdirected type 2 immune responses, in which immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies are produced against any of a broad range of seemingly harmless antigens. However, components of insect venoms also can sensitize individuals to develop severe IgE-associated allergic reactions, including fatal anaphylaxis, upon subsequent venom exposure. We found that mice injected with amounts of honeybee venom similar to that which could be delivered in one or two stings developed a specific type 2 immune response that increased their resistance to subsequent challenge with potentially lethal amounts of the venom. Our data indicate that IgE antibodies and the high affinity IgE receptor, FcεRI, were essential for such acquired resistance to honeybee venom. The evidence that IgE-dependent immune responses against venom can enhance survival in mice supports the hypothesis that IgE, which also contributes to allergic disorders, has an important function in protection of the host against noxious substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Marichal
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305; USA
| | - Philipp Starkl
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305; USA
| | - Laurent L. Reber
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305; USA
| | - Janet Kalesnikoff
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305; USA
| | - Hans C. Oettgen
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305; USA
| | - Mindy Tsai
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305; USA
| | - Martin Metz
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305; USA
- Division of Immunology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, 02115; USA
| | - Stephen J. Galli
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, 94305; USA
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Chen L, Huang GZ. Poisoning by toxic animals in China—18 autopsy case studies and a comprehensive literature review. Forensic Sci Int 2013; 232:e12-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2012] [Revised: 07/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Sousa PCP, Brito TS, Freire DS, Ximenes RM, Magalhães PJC, Monteiro HS, Alves RS, Martins AMC, Toyama DO, Toyama MH. Vasoconstrictor effect of Africanized honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) venom on rat aorta. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2013; 19:24. [PMID: 24066982 PMCID: PMC3849866 DOI: 10.1186/1678-9199-19-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2013] [Accepted: 09/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Apis mellifera stings are a problem for public health worldwide, particularly in Latin America due to the aggressiveness of its Africanized honeybees. Massive poisoning by A. mellifera venom (AmV) affects mainly the cardiovascular system, and several works have described its actions on heart muscle. Nevertheless, no work on the pharmacological action mechanisms of the AmV in isolated aorta has been reported. Thus, the present work aimed to investigate the actions of AmV and its main fractions, phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and melittin, on isolated aorta rings and a probable action mechanism. RESULTS AmV and the complex PLA2 + melittin (0.1-50 μg/mL) caused contraction in endothelium-containing aorta rings, but neither isolated PLA2 nor melittin were able to reproduce the effect. Endothelium removal did not change the maximum vasoconstrictor effect elicited by AmV. Ca2+-free medium, as well as treatment with phentolamine (5 μM), verapamil (10 μM), losartan (100 μM), and U-73122 (10 μM, a phospholipase C inhibitor), eliminated the AmV-induced contractile effects. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, AmV caused contractile effect in aorta rings probably through the involvement of voltage-operated calcium channels, AT1 and α-adrenergic receptors via the downstream activation of phospholipase C. The protein complex, PLA2 + melittin, was also able to induce vasoconstriction, whereas the isolated proteins were not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo César P Sousa
- Paulista Coast Experimental Campus, São Paulo State University (UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista), São Vicente, São Paulo State, Brazil.
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Baracchi D, Mazza G, Michelucci E, Pieraccini G, Turillazzi S, Moneti G. Top-down sequencing of Apis dorsata apamin by MALDI-TOF MS and evidence of its inactivity against microorganisms. Toxicon 2013; 71:105-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2013] [Revised: 05/18/2013] [Accepted: 05/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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36
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Digestive stability and acute toxicity studies of exogenous protein in transgenic rice expressing lysine-rich fusion proteins. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s11434-013-5923-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Ferreira RS, Almeida RAMB, Barraviera SRCS, Barraviera B. Historical perspective and human consequences of Africanized bee stings in the Americas. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2012; 15:97-108. [PMID: 22401177 DOI: 10.1080/10937404.2012.645141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
In 1956, Africanized bees began to spread in the American continent from southern Brazil, where original African bees mated with European bees. A few years later, in 1990, these Africanized bees reached the United States and were found in Texas. Currently, these hybrid bees are found in several North American states and will probably reach the Canadian border in the future. Although the presence of Africanized bees had produced positive effects on Brazilian economy, including improvement in crop pollination and in honey production, turning Brazil into a major exporter, the negative impacts-such as swarming, aggressive behavior, and the ability to mass attack-resulted in serious and fatal envenomation with humans and animals. Victims of bee attacks usually develop a severe envenomation syndrome characterized by the release of a large amount of cytokines [interleukins (IL) IL-1, IL-6, IL-8], and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). Subsequently, such cytokines produce an acute inflammatory response that triggers adverse effects on skeletal muscles; bone marrow; hepatic and renal functions; and cardiovascular, central nervous, and immune systems. Finally, the aim of the present review is to study historical characteristics and current status of Africanized bees' spread, the composition of their venom, the impact of the bees on the Brazilian economy and ecology, and clinical aspects of their stings including immune response, and to suggest a protocol for bee sting management since there is no safe and effective antivenom available.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Ferreira
- Department of Tropical Diseases and Image Diagnosis, São Paulo State University (UNESP–Univ Estadual Paulista), São Paulo, Brazil.
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Baracchi D, Francese S, Turillazzi S. Beyond the antipredatory defence: Honey bee venom function as a component of social immunity. Toxicon 2011; 58:550-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2011.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2011] [Revised: 08/29/2011] [Accepted: 08/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Florea A, Puică C, Vinţan M, Benga I, Crăciun C. Electrophysiological and structural aspects in the frontal cortex after the bee (Apis mellifera) venom experimental treatment. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2011; 31:701-14. [PMID: 21359542 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-011-9667-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2010] [Accepted: 02/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate the bioelectrical and structural-functional changes in frontal cortex after the bee venom (BV) experimental treatments simulating both an acute envenomation and a subchronic BV therapy. Wistar rats were subcutaneously injected once with three different BV doses: 700 μg/kg (T(1) group), 2100 μg/kg (T(3) group), and 62 mg/kg (sublethal dose-in T(SL) group), and repeated for 30 days with the lowest dose (700 μg/kg-in T(S) group). BV effects were assessed by electrophysiological, histological, histochemical, and ultrastructural methods. Single BV doses produced discharges of negative and biphasic sharp waves, and epileptiform spike-wave complexes. The increasing frequency of these elements suggested a dose-dependent neuronal hyperexcitation or irritation. As compared to the lower doses, the sublethal dose was responsible for a pronounced toxic effect, confirmed by ultrastructural data in both neurons and glial cells that underwent extensive, irreversible changes, triggering the cellular death. Subchronic BV treatment in T(S) group resulted in a slower frequency and increased amplitude of cortical activity suggesting neuronal loss. However, neurons were still stimulated by the last BV dose. Structural-functional data showed a reduced cellular density in frontal cortex of animals in this group, while the remaining neurons displayed both specific (stimulation of neuronal activity) and unspecific modifications (moderate alterations to necrotic phenomena). Molecular mechanisms involved in BV interactions with the nervous tissue are also discussed. We consider all these data very important for clinicians who manage patients with multiple bee stings, or who intend to set an appropriate BV therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Florea
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
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Shen LR, Ding MH, Zhang LW, Zhang WG, Liu L, Li D. Expression of a bee venom phospholipase A2 from Apis cerana cerana in the baculovirus-insect cell. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2010; 11:342-9. [PMID: 20443212 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b0900254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Bee venom phospholipase A(2) (BvPLA(2)) is a lipolytic enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of the sn-2 acyl bond of glycerophospholipids to liberate free fatty acids and lysophospholipids. In this work, a new BvPLA(2) (AccPLA(2)) gene from the Chinese honeybee (Apis cerana cerana) venom glands was inserted into bacmid to construct a recombinant transfer vector. Tn-5B-4 (Tn) cells were transfected with the recombinant bacmid DNA for expression. Sodium dodecylsulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) analysis revealed a double band with molecular weights of 16 and 18 kDa. Products of hexahistidine AccPLA(2) fusion protein accumulated up to 5.32% of the total cellular proteins. The AccPLA(2) fusion protein was cross reactive with the anti-AmPLA(2) (BvPLA(2) of the European honeybee, Apis mellifera) polyclonal serum. The reaction resulted in a double glycosylation band, which agrees with the band generated by the native AmPLA(2) in Western blot analysis. The PLA(2) activity of the total extracted cellular protein in the hydrolyzing egg yolk is about 3.16 micromol/(min.mg). In summary, the recombinant AccPLA(2) protein, a native BvPLA(2)-like structure with corresponding biological activities, can be glycosylated in Tn cells. These findings provided fundamental knowledge for potential genetic engineering to produce AccPLA(2) in the pharmaceutical industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Rong Shen
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310029, China.
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Prado M, Solano-Trejos G, Lomonte B. Acute physiopathological effects of honeybee (Apis mellifera) envenoming by subcutaneous route in a mouse model. Toxicon 2010; 56:1007-17. [PMID: 20638400 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2010.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2010] [Revised: 07/08/2010] [Accepted: 07/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Bee stings are a health concern in the Americas, where fatal envenomings due to massive attacks by Africanized honeybees have been documented in the last decades. Most studies on the toxic effects of honeybee venom in experimental animals have been performed using the intravenous or intraperitoneal injection routes. The aim of this study was to develop a mouse model that would better resemble a massive honeybee attack by using the subcutaneous (s.c.) route to induce a severe, sublethal systemic envenoming. An array of acute venom effects were characterized, including biochemical, hematological, histological, and inflammatory alterations, after the s.c. injection of 0.5 median lethal dose of venom. Rapid increases in serum alanine (ALT) and aspartate (AST) transaminases, creatinine, urea nitrogen, uric acid, sodium and chloride electrolytes, and creatine kinase (CK) were recorded, indicating damage to liver, kidneys, and skeletal muscle. Also, coagulation disturbances (fibrinogen decrease, and moderate delay in prothrombin and partial thromboplastin times) were demonstrated. Circulating platelet and leukocyte numbers remained unaltered, but a hemoconcentration effect (hematocrit and hemoglobin increase) was observed. This effect might be related to the marked edema induced by the venom. In addition, this inflammatory response included a systemic increase in cytokines (IL-1 beta, IL-6, TNF-alpha), together with an elevation of serum malondialdehyde and nitric oxide. The myotoxic effects of venom, melittin, and phospholipase A(2) were demonstrated after injection by s.c. route. No synergistic myotoxicity between melittin and PLA(2) was observed. Moreover, these two components, when injected at equivalent concentrations to those present in venom, induced a lower increase in serum CK than venom, suggesting that other components also contribute to its strong systemic toxicity towards skeletal muscle. The model here presented may be useful in preclinical studies to assess therapeutic antivenoms developed to cope with the problem of massive bee attacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Prado
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
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Vassilevski AA, Kozlov SA, Grishin EV. Molecular diversity of spider venom. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW) 2010; 74:1505-34. [PMID: 20210706 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297909130069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Spider venom, a factor that has played a decisive role in the evolution of one of the most successful groups of living organisms, is reviewed. Unique molecular diversity of venom components including substances of variable structure (from simple low molecular weight compounds to large multidomain proteins) with different functions is considered. Special attention is given to the structure, properties, and biosynthesis of toxins of polypeptide nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- A A Vassilevski
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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Ferreira Junior RS, Sciani JM, Marques-Porto R, Junior AL, Orsi RDO, Barraviera B, Pimenta DC. Africanized honey bee (Apis mellifera) venom profiling: Seasonal variation of melittin and phospholipase A(2) levels. Toxicon 2010; 56:355-62. [PMID: 20403370 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2010.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2009] [Revised: 03/19/2010] [Accepted: 03/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Apis mellifera venom is comprised basically of melittin, phospholipase A(2), histamine, hyaluronidase, catecholamine and serotonin. Some of these components have been associated with allergic reactions, amongst several other symptoms. On the other hand, bee mass stinging, caused by Africanized honey bee (AHB), is increasingly becoming a serious public health issue in Brazil; therefore, the development of efficient serum-therapies has become necessary. In this work, we have analyzed the venom composition of AHB in Brazil through one year. In order to verify the homogeneity of this venom, one specific hive was selected and the correlation with climatic parameters was assessed. It was possible to perceive a seasonal variation on the venom contents of melittin and phospholipase A(2). Moreover, both compounds presented a synchronized variation of their levels, with an increased production in the same months. This variation does not correlate or synchronize with any climatic parameter. Data on the variation of the AHB venom composition is necessary to guide future intra and inter species studies.
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de Graaf DC, Brunain M, Scharlaken B, Peiren N, Devreese B, Ebo DG, Stevens WJ, Desjardins CA, Werren JH, Jacobs FJ. Two novel proteins expressed by the venom glands of Apis mellifera and Nasonia vitripennis share an ancient C1q-like domain. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2010; 19 Suppl 1:1-10. [PMID: 20167013 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2583.2009.00913.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
An in-depth proteomic study of previously unidentified two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis spots of honey bee (Apis mellifera, Hymenoptera) venom revealed a new protein with a C1q conserved domain (C1q-VP). BlastP searching revealed a strong identity with only two proteins from other insect species: the jewel wasp, Nasonia vitripennis (Hymenoptera), and the green pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Hemiptera). In higher organisms, C1q is the first subcomponent of the classical complement pathway and constitutes a major link between innate and acquired immunity. Expression of C1q-VP in a variety of tissues of honey bee workers and drones was demonstrated. In addition, a wide spatial and temporal pattern of expression was observed in N. vitripennis. We suggest that C1q-VP represents a new member of the emerging group of venom trace elements. Using degenerate primers the corresponding gene was found to be highly conserved in eight hymenopteran species, including species of the Aculeata and the Parasitica groups (suborder Apocrita) and even the suborder Symphyta. A preliminary test using recombinant proteins failed to demonstrate Am_C1q-VP-specific immunoglobulin E recognition by serum from patients with a documented severe bee venom allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- D C de Graaf
- Laboratory of Zoophysiology, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
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Herouet-Guicheney C, Rouquié D, Freyssinet M, Currier T, Martone A, Zhou J, Bates EEM, Ferullo JM, Hendrickx K, Rouan D. Safety evaluation of the double mutant 5-enol pyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (2mEPSPS) from maize that confers tolerance to glyphosate herbicide in transgenic plants. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2009; 54:143-53. [PMID: 19303906 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2009.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2008] [Revised: 03/12/2009] [Accepted: 03/12/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Glyphosate tolerance can be conferred by decreasing the herbicide's ability to inhibit the enzyme 5-enol pyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase, which is essential for the biosynthesis of aromatic amino acids in all plants, fungi, and bacteria. Glyphosate tolerance is based upon the expression of the double mutant 5-enol pyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (2mEPSPS) protein. The 2mEPSPS protein, with a lower binding affinity for glyphosate, is highly resistant to the inhibition by glyphosate and thus allows sufficient enzyme activity for the plants to grow in the presence of herbicides that contain glyphosate. Based on both a review of published literature and experimental studies, the potential safety concerns related to the transgenic 2mEPSPS protein were assessed. The safety evaluation supports that the expressed protein is innocuous. The 2mEPSPS enzyme does not possess any of the properties associated with known toxins or allergens, including a lack of amino acid sequence similarity to known toxins and allergens, a rapid degradation in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids, and no adverse effects in mice after intravenous or oral administration (at 10 or 2000 mg/kg body weight, respectively). In conclusion, there is a reasonable certainty of no harm resulting from the inclusion of the 2mEPSPS protein in human food or in animal feed.
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Silva TC, De Paula Moura S, Ramos HR, De Araujo PS, Bueno Da Costa MH. Design of a Modern Liposome and Bee Venom Formulation for the Traditional VIT-Venom Immunotherapy. J Liposome Res 2008; 18:353-68. [DOI: 10.1080/08982100802518046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana C. Silva
- Laboratório de Microesferas e Lipossomas
- Departamento de Medicina, Disciplina de Clínica Médica-UNIFESP, São Paulo, Brasil
| | | | - Henrique R. Ramos
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia Molecular, (Centro de Biotecnologia), Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brasil
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Instituto de Química-USP, São Paulo, Brasil
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Bae TW, Vanjildorj E, Song SY, Nishiguchi S, Yang SS, Song IJ, Chandrasekhar T, Kang TW, Kim JI, Koh YJ, Park SY, Lee J, Lee YE, Ryu KH, Riu KZ, Song PS, Lee HY. Environmental risk assessment of genetically engineered herbicide-tolerant Zoysia japonica. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 2008; 37:207-218. [PMID: 18178894 DOI: 10.2134/jeq2007.0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Herbicide-tolerant Zoysia grass (Zoysia japonica Steud.) has been generated previously through Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation. The genetically modified (GM) Zoysia grass survived Basta spraying and grew to maturity normally while the wild-type (WT) grass stopped growing and died. GM Zoysia grass will permit more efficient weed control for various turf grass plantings such as home lawns, golf courses, and parks. We examined the environmental/biodiversity risks of herbicide-tolerant GM Zoysia before applying to regulatory agencies for approval for commercial release. The GM and WT Zoysia grass' substantial trait equivalence, ability to cross-pollinate, and gene flow in confined and unconfined test fields were selectively analyzed for environmental/biodiversity effects. No difference between GM and WT Zoysia grass in substantial traits was found. To assess the potential for cross-pollination and gene flow, a non-selective herbicide, Basta, was used. Results showed that unintended cross-pollination with and gene flow from GM Zoysia grass were not detected in neighboring weed species examined, but were observed in WT Zoysia grass (on average, 6% at proximity, 1.2% at a distance of 0.5 m and 0.12% at a radius of 3 m, and 0% at distances over 3 m). On the basis of these initial studies, we conclude that the GM Zoysia grass generated in our laboratory and tested in the Nam Jeju County field does not appear to pose a significant risk when cultivated outside of test fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Bae
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Cheju National University, Jeju 690-756, Korea
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Lovecchio F, Cannon RD, Algier J, Ruha AM, Curry SC, Wallace KL, Graeme KA. Bee swarmings in children. Am J Emerg Med 2007; 25:931-3. [PMID: 17920979 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2007.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2007] [Accepted: 02/08/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED Africanized honeybees (Apis mellifera scutellata) are now found in the southern and southwestern United States. Swarmings can result in hundreds to thousands of stings delivering a venom load capable of producing multisystem organ failure and death. The literature on mass envenomations is scarce, being limited to case reports and case series. There are no prospective studies on mass envenomations in children. METHODS All patients were admitted to our toxicology service, and all stingers were counted. Laboratory data and clinical assessments were obtained at baseline, 8, and 16 hours after presentation. RESULTS Nineteen patients with a median age of 3.6 years and a median of 2.64 stings per kilogram (range, 1-4.5) were enrolled. Fifteen children had vomiting. Only a mild increase in creatine kinase was seen. None developed coagulopathy or renal insufficiency. CONCLUSION Envenomations of up to 4.5 stings per kilogram resulted in only mild systemic illness. Vomiting does not portend involvement of other organ systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Lovecchio
- Department of Medical Toxicology and Banner Good Samaritan Regional Poison Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
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Oliveira EC, Pedroso PMO, Meirelles AEWB, Pescador CA, Gouvêa AS, Driemeier D. Pathological findings in dogs after multiple Africanized bee stings. Toxicon 2007; 49:1214-8. [PMID: 17383705 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2007.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2006] [Revised: 01/30/2007] [Accepted: 01/31/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This retrospective study included 19 dogs that died by intoxication due to multiple Africanized bee stings. Bee accidents occurred in rural and urban areas of the Rio Grande do Sul state, southern Brazil. Although bee stings were associated with edema and hyperemia in several regions of the body, head and neck were the most commonly and massively affected areas. Stingers and bees were also observed in the digestive tract. Dark-colored kidneys, dark-red urine, splenomegaly, and dark red lungs were the main gross changes. Histologically, all the dogs had kidney tubular degeneration and necrosis, which were associated with tubular pigment accumulation in most cases. Other lesions included muscular necrosis, hemorrhage in different organs, marked congestion of the spleen and pulmonary edema and congestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo C Oliveira
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Avenida Bento Gonçalves 9090, CEP 91540-000, Brazil
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Metz M, Piliponsky AM, Chen CC, Lammel V, Abrink M, Pejler G, Tsai M, Galli SJ. Mast cells can enhance resistance to snake and honeybee venoms. Science 2006; 313:526-30. [PMID: 16873664 DOI: 10.1126/science.1128877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 255] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Snake or honeybee envenomation can cause substantial morbidity and mortality, and it has been proposed that the activation of mast cells by snake or insect venoms can contribute to these effects. We show, in contrast, that mast cells can significantly reduce snake-venom-induced pathology in mice, at least in part by releasing carboxypeptidase A and possibly other proteases, which can degrade venom components. Mast cells also significantly reduced the morbidity and mortality induced by honeybee venom. These findings identify a new biological function for mast cells in enhancing resistance to the morbidity and mortality induced by animal venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Metz
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305-5324, USA
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