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Phan P, Deshwal A, McMahon TA, Slikas M, Andrews E, Becker B, Kumar TKS. A Review of Rattlesnake Venoms. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 16:2. [PMID: 38276526 PMCID: PMC10818703 DOI: 10.3390/toxins16010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Venom components are invaluable in biomedical research owing to their specificity and potency. Many of these components exist in two genera of rattlesnakes, Crotalus and Sistrurus, with high toxicity and proteolytic activity variation. This review focuses on venom components within rattlesnakes, and offers a comparison and itemized list of factors dictating venom composition, as well as presenting their known characteristics, activities, and significant applications in biosciences. There are 64 families and subfamilies of proteins present in Crotalus and Sistrurus venom. Snake venom serine proteases (SVSP), snake venom metalloproteases (SVMP), and phospholipases A2 (PLA2) are the standard components in Crotalus and Sistrurus venom. Through this review, we highlight gaps in the knowledge of rattlesnake venom; there needs to be more information on the venom composition of three Crotalus species and one Sistrurus subspecies. We discuss the activity and importance of both major and minor components in biomedical research and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phuc Phan
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA;
| | - Anant Deshwal
- Department of Biology, Bradley University, Peoria, IL 61625, USA; (T.A.M.); (M.S.); (E.A.)
| | - Tyler Anthony McMahon
- Department of Biology, Bradley University, Peoria, IL 61625, USA; (T.A.M.); (M.S.); (E.A.)
| | - Matthew Slikas
- Department of Biology, Bradley University, Peoria, IL 61625, USA; (T.A.M.); (M.S.); (E.A.)
| | - Elodie Andrews
- Department of Biology, Bradley University, Peoria, IL 61625, USA; (T.A.M.); (M.S.); (E.A.)
| | - Brian Becker
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA;
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2
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Oyadomari WY, Anthero GL, Silva MRDA, Porta LC, Oliveira V, Reid PF, Sant'Anna OA, Alves WA, Nani JV, Hayashi MAF. Evaluation of tumor growth remission in a murine model for subcutaneous solid tumors - Benefits of associating the antitumor agent crotamine with mesoporous nanosilica particles to achieve improved dosing frequency and efficacy. Int J Pharm 2023; 646:123420. [PMID: 37778514 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Crotamine is a highly cationic polypeptide first isolated from South American rattlesnake venom, which exhibits affinity for acidic lysosomal vesicles and proliferating cells. This cationic nature is pivotal for its in vitro cytotoxicity and in vivo anticancer actions. This study aimed to enhance the antitumor efficacy of crotamine by associating it with the mesoporous SBA-15 silica, known for its controlled release of various chemical agents, including large proteins. This association aimed to mitigate the toxic effects while amplifying the pharmacological potency of several compounds. Comprehensive characterization, including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential analysis, confirmed the successful association of crotamine with the non-toxic SBA-15 nanoparticles. The TEM imaging revealed nanoparticles with a nearly spherical shape and variations in uniformity upon crotamine association. Furthermore, DLS showed a narrow unimodal size distribution, emphasizing the formation of small aggregates. Zeta potential measurements indicated a distinct shift from negative to positive values upon crotamine association, underscoring its effective adsorption onto SBA-15. Intraperitoneal or oral administration of crotamine:SBA-15 in a murine melanoma model suggested the potential to reduce the frequency of crotamine doses without compromising efficacy. Interestingly, while the oral route enhanced the antitumor efficacy of crotamine, pH-dependent release from SBA-15 was observed. Thus, associating crotamine with SBA-15 could reduce the overall required dose to inhibit solid tumor growth, bolstering the prospect of crotamine as a potent anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Yoshio Oyadomari
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Brazil; Departamento de Biofísica, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Brazil.
| | - Gabriel Lessa Anthero
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Brazil.
| | - Marcos R de A Silva
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC (UFABC), Brazil.
| | - Lucas C Porta
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Brazil.
| | - Vitor Oliveira
- Departamento de Biofísica, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Brazil.
| | | | | | - Wendel A Alves
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC (UFABC), Brazil.
| | - João V Nani
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Brazil.
| | - Mirian Akemi Furuie Hayashi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Brazil.
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Shimizu JF, Feferbaum-Leite S, Santos IA, Martins DOS, Kingston NJ, Shegdar M, Zothner C, Sampaio SV, Harris M, Stonehouse NJ, Jardim ACG. Effect of proteins isolated from Brazilian snakes on enterovirus A71 replication cycle: An approach against hand, foot and mouth disease. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 241:124519. [PMID: 37085072 PMCID: PMC7615699 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Enterovirus A71 (EVA71) belongs to the Picornaviridae family and is the main etiological agent of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). There is no approved antiviral against EVA71, and therefore the search for novel anti-EVA71 therapeutics is essential. In this context, the antiviral activity of proteins isolated from snake venoms has been reported against a range of viruses. Here, the proteins CM10 and CM14 isolated from Bothrops moojeni, and Crotamin and PLA2CB isolated from Crotalus durissus terrificus were investigated for their antiviral activity against EVA71 infection. CM14 and Crotamin possessed a selective index (SI) of 170.8 and 120.4, respectively, while CM10 and PLA2CB had an SI of 67.4 and 12.5, respectively. CM14 inhibited all steps of viral replication (protective effect: 76 %; virucidal: 99 %; and post-entry: 99 %). Similarly, Crotamin inhibited up to 99 % of three steps. In contrast, CM10 and PLA2CB impaired one or two steps of EVA71 replication, respectively. Further dose-response assays using increasing titres of EVA71 were performed and CM14 and Crotamin retained functionality with high concentrations of EVA71 (up to 1000 TCID50). These data demonstrate that proteins isolated from snake venom are potent inhibitors of EVA71 and could be used as scaffolds for future development of novel antivirals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Farinha Shimizu
- Laboratory of Antiviral Research, Institute of Biomedical Science - ICBIM, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Institute of Biosciences, Language and Exact Science - IBILCE, São Paulo State University - UNESP, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil; Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory (LNBio), Brazilian Centre for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM), Campinas, SP 13083-100, Brazil
| | - Shiraz Feferbaum-Leite
- Laboratory of Antiviral Research, Institute of Biomedical Science - ICBIM, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Igor Andrade Santos
- Laboratory of Antiviral Research, Institute of Biomedical Science - ICBIM, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Daniel Oliveira Silva Martins
- Laboratory of Antiviral Research, Institute of Biomedical Science - ICBIM, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Institute of Biosciences, Language and Exact Science - IBILCE, São Paulo State University - UNESP, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Natalie J Kingston
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Mona Shegdar
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Carsten Zothner
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Suely Vilela Sampaio
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Toxicology and Food Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo - USP, SP, Brazil
| | - Mark Harris
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola J Stonehouse
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Ana Carolina Gomes Jardim
- Laboratory of Antiviral Research, Institute of Biomedical Science - ICBIM, Federal University of Uberlândia - UFU, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Institute of Biosciences, Language and Exact Science - IBILCE, São Paulo State University - UNESP, São José do Rio Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Past, Present, and Future of Naturally Occurring Antimicrobials Related to Snake Venoms. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040744. [PMID: 36830531 PMCID: PMC9952678 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on proteins and peptides with antimicrobial activity because these biopolymers can be useful in the fight against infectious diseases and to overcome the critical problem of microbial resistance to antibiotics. In fact, snakes show the highest diversification among reptiles, surviving in various environments; their innate immunity is similar to mammals and the response of their plasma to bacteria and fungi has been explored mainly in ecological studies. Snake venoms are a rich source of components that have a variety of biological functions. Among them are proteins like lectins, metalloproteinases, serine proteinases, L-amino acid oxidases, phospholipases type A2, cysteine-rich secretory proteins, as well as many oligopeptides, such as waprins, cardiotoxins, cathelicidins, and β-defensins. In vitro, these biomolecules were shown to be active against bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses that are pathogenic to humans. Not only cathelicidins, but all other proteins and oligopeptides from snake venom have been proteolyzed to provide short antimicrobial peptides, or for use as templates for developing a variety of short unnatural sequences based on their structures. In addition to organizing and discussing an expressive amount of information, this review also describes new β-defensin sequences of Sistrurus miliarius that can lead to novel peptide-based antimicrobial agents, using a multidisciplinary approach that includes sequence phylogeny.
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Sadat SN, Bagheri KP, Maghsoudi H, Shahbazzadeh D. Oxineur, a novel peptide from Caspian cobra Naja naja oxiana against HT-29 colon cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2023; 1867:130285. [PMID: 36462597 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2022.130285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Colon cancer ranks fourth in mortality. This cancer is still an important clinical challenge worldwide due to its high prevalence and poor prognosis. Proteomic studies revealed that snake venom is a diverse and variable mixture of enzymatic and non-enzymatic proteins and peptides. Despite the toxic effects of these molecules, several proteins and peptides have been isolated that have practical applications and appear to induce apoptosis and prevent cell metastasis. In this study, we worked on cytotoxic effects and anticancer activity of Naja naja oxiana (Iranian Caspian cobra) snake venom components on HT-29 cell line colon cancer. Separated Fraction-5 by FPLC indicated the high cytotoxicity on HT-29 cell line colon cancer by MTT test. Further isolation of F5 by HPLC showed that the purified peak 2, nominated as Oxineur that contains a cytotoxic effect on HT-29 cells and reduces cell viability at 8 μg/ml to 4% in 24 h. Oxineur has the least cytotoxic effect on HEK-293 normal cells. Further studies on Oxineur peptide confirmed the apoptotic effects with high expression of CASP9 gene and DNA fragmentation in cancerous cells. The partial sequence of Oxineur revealed 71% homology with the neurotoxin II from Naja naja oxiana. Since our target molecule is a peptide in the molecular weight range of 7 kDa, it has potentially a therapeutic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Narjes Sadat
- Biotechnology Research Center, Medical Biotechnology Department, Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamran Pooshang Bagheri
- Biotechnology Research Center, Medical Biotechnology Department, Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hosein Maghsoudi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Payame Noor University, PNU Rey, Tehran, Iran
| | - Delavar Shahbazzadeh
- Biotechnology Research Center, Medical Biotechnology Department, Venom and Biotherapeutics Molecules Lab., Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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Alves BFA, Ferreira RS. Antineoplastic properties and pharmacological applications of Crotalus durissus terrificus snake venom. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop 2022; 55:S0037-86822022000100207. [PMID: 36542014 PMCID: PMC9757715 DOI: 10.1590/0037-8682-0323-2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Snake toxins are widely studied owing to their importance in snakebite accidents, a serious public health issue in tropical countries, and their broad therapeutic potential. Isolated fractions from venom produced by snakes of the genus Crotalus sp. present a wide variety of pharmacological uses such as antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, and antitumor properties, among other therapeutic potentialities. Given the direct effect of this venom on tumor cells, isolation of its compounds is important for the characterization of its anticarcinogenic actions. Crotalus durissus terrificus venom and its toxins have been widely evaluated as potential candidates for the development of new antineoplastic therapies that are efficient against different tumor lines and cellular targets. This review highlights the venom toxins of this species, with a focus on their antineoplastic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rui Seabra Ferreira
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São
Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
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Biological and Medical Aspects Related to South American Rattlesnake Crotalus durissus (Linnaeus, 1758): A View from Colombia. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14120875. [PMID: 36548772 PMCID: PMC9784998 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14120875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In Colombia, South America, there is a subspecies of the South American rattlesnake Crotalus durissus, C. d. cumanensis, a snake of the Viperidae family, whose presence has been reduced due to the destruction of its habitat. It is an enigmatic snake from the group of pit vipers, venomous, with large articulated front fangs, special designs on its body, and a characteristic rattle on its tail. Unlike in Brazil, the occurrence of human envenomation by C. durisus in Colombia is very rare and contributes to less than 1% of envenomation caused by snakes. Its venom is a complex cocktail of proteins with different biological effects, which evolved with the purpose of paralyzing the prey, killing it, and starting its digestive process, as well as having defense functions. When its venom is injected into humans as the result of a bite, the victim presents with both local tissue damage and with systemic involvement, including a diverse degree of neurotoxic, myotoxic, nephrotoxic, and coagulopathic effects, among others. Its biological effects are being studied for use in human health, including the possible development of analgesic, muscle relaxant, anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, anti-infection, and antineoplastic drugs. Several groups of researchers in Brazil are very active in their contributions in this regard. In this work, a review is made of the most relevant biological and medical aspects related to the South American rattlesnake and of what may be of importance for a better understanding of the snake C. d. cumanensis, present in Colombia and Venezuela.
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Ageitos L, Torres MDT, de la Fuente-Nunez C. Biologically Active Peptides from Venoms: Applications in Antibiotic Resistance, Cancer, and Beyond. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315437. [PMID: 36499761 PMCID: PMC9740984 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptides are potential therapeutic alternatives against global diseases, such as antimicrobial-resistant infections and cancer. Venoms are a rich source of bioactive peptides that have evolved over time to act on specific targets of the prey. Peptides are one of the main components responsible for the biological activity and toxicity of venoms. South American organisms such as scorpions, snakes, and spiders are important producers of a myriad of peptides with different biological activities. In this review, we report the main venom-derived peptide families produced from South American organisms and their corresponding activities and biological targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Ageitos
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Marcelo D. T. Torres
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Cesar de la Fuente-Nunez
- Machine Biology Group, Departments of Psychiatry and Microbiology, Institute for Biomedical Informatics, Institute for Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Departments of Bioengineering and Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Penn Institute for Computational Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Correspondence:
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González García MC, Radix C, Villard C, Breuzard G, Mansuelle P, Barbier P, Tsvetkov PO, De Pomyers H, Gigmes D, Devred F, Kovacic H, Mabrouk K, Luis J. Myotoxin-3 from the Pacific Rattlesnake Crotalus oreganus oreganus Venom Is a New Microtubule-Targeting Agent. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27238241. [PMID: 36500334 PMCID: PMC9739105 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27238241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Microtubule targeting agents (MTA) are anti-cancer molecules that bind tubulin and interfere with the microtubule functions, eventually leading to cell death. In the present study, we used an in vitro microtubule polymerization assay to screen several venom families for the presence of anti-microtubule activity. We isolated myotoxin-3, a peptide of the crotamine family, and three isoforms from the venom of the Northern Pacific rattlesnake Crotalus oreganus oreganus, which was able to increase tubulin polymerization. Myotoxin-3 turned out to be a cell-penetrating peptide that slightly diminished the viability of U87 glioblastoma and MCF7 breast carcinoma cells. Myotoxin 3 also induced remodeling of the U87 microtubule network and decreased MCF-7 microtubule dynamic instability. These effects are likely due to direct interaction with tubulin. Indeed, we showed that myotoxin-3 binds to tubulin heterodimer with a Kd of 5.3 µM and stoichiometry of two molecules of peptide per tubulin dimer. Our results demonstrate that exogenous peptides are good candidates for developing new MTA and highlight the richness of venoms as a source of pharmacologically active molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Cecilia González García
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Caroline Radix
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Claude Villard
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Gilles Breuzard
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Pascal Mansuelle
- Institut de Microbiologie de la Méditerranée (Marseille Protéomique), IMM (MaP), CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 31 Chemin Joseph Aiguier, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Pascale Barbier
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Philipp O. Tsvetkov
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Harold De Pomyers
- Laboratoire LATOXAN SAS, 845 Avenue Pierre Brossolette, 26800 Portes-lès-Valence, France
| | - Didier Gigmes
- Institut de Chimie Radicalaire, ICR, Faculté des Sciences de Saint Jérôme, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13397 Marseille, France
| | - François Devred
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Hervé Kovacic
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Kamel Mabrouk
- Institut de Chimie Radicalaire, ICR, Faculté des Sciences de Saint Jérôme, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13397 Marseille, France
| | - José Luis
- Institut Neurophysiopathol, INP, Faculté des Sciences Médicales et Paramédicales, CNRS, Aix-Marseille Université, 13005 Marseille, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-4-91-32-47-34
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Design of D-Amino Acids SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease Inhibitors Using the Cationic Peptide from Rattlesnake Venom as a Scaffold. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15050540. [PMID: 35631367 PMCID: PMC9146215 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The C30 endopeptidase (3C-like protease; 3CLpro) is essential for the life cycle of SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2) since it plays a pivotal role in viral replication and transcription and, hence, is a promising drug target. Molecules isolated from animals, insects, plants, or microorganisms can serve as a scaffold for the design of novel biopharmaceutical products. Crotamine, a small cationic peptide from the venom of the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus, has been the focus of many studies since it exhibits activities such as analgesic, in vitro antibacterial, and hemolytic activities. The crotamine derivative L-peptides (L-CDP) that inhibit the 3CL protease in the low µM range were examined since they are susceptible to proteolytic degradation; we explored the utility of their D-enantiomers form. Comparative uptake inhibition analysis showed D-CDP as a promising prototype for a D-peptide-based drug. We also found that the D-peptides can impair SARS-CoV-2 replication in vivo, probably targeting the viral protease 3CLpro.
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Roque-Borda CA, Gualque MWDL, da Fonseca FH, Pavan FR, Santos-Filho NA. Nanobiotechnology with Therapeutically Relevant Macromolecules from Animal Venoms: Venoms, Toxins, and Antimicrobial Peptides. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:891. [PMID: 35631477 PMCID: PMC9146920 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14050891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Some diseases of uncontrolled proliferation such as cancer, as well as infectious diseases, are the main cause of death in the world, and their causative agents have rapidly developed resistance to the various existing treatments, making them even more dangerous. Thereby, the discovery of new therapeutic agents is a challenge promoted by the World Health Organization (WHO). Biomacromolecules, isolated or synthesized from a natural template, have therapeutic properties which have not yet been fully studied, and represent an unexplored potential in the search for new drugs. These substances, starting from conglomerates of proteins and other substances such as animal venoms, or from minor substances such as bioactive peptides, help fight diseases or counteract harmful effects. The high effectiveness of these biomacromolecules makes them promising substances for obtaining new drugs; however, their low bioavailability or stability in biological systems is a challenge to be overcome in the coming years with the help of nanotechnology. The objective of this review article is to describe the relationship between the structure and function of biomacromolecules of animal origin that have applications already described using nanotechnology and targeted delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar Augusto Roque-Borda
- Tuberculosis Research Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.A.R.-B.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Marcos William de Lima Gualque
- Proteomics Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil;
| | - Fauller Henrique da Fonseca
- Department of Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry, Chemistry Institute, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil;
| | - Fernando Rogério Pavan
- Tuberculosis Research Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil; (C.A.R.-B.); (F.R.P.)
| | - Norival Alves Santos-Filho
- Department of Biochemistry and Organic Chemistry, Chemistry Institute, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara 14800-903, Brazil;
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El Chamy Maluf S, Hayashi MAF, Campeiro JD, Oliveira EB, Gazarini ML, Carmona AK. South American rattlesnake cationic polypeptide crotamine trafficking dynamic in Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes: Pharmacological inhibitors, parasite cycle and incubation time influences in uptake. Toxicon 2022; 208:47-52. [PMID: 35074306 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Malaria is a parasitic infectious disease caused by Plasmodium sp, which was responsible for about 409 thousand deaths only in 2019. The clinical manifestations in patients with malaria, which may include fever and anemia and that can occasionally lead to the death of the host, are mainly associated to the asexual blood stage of parasite. The discovery of novel compounds active against stages of the intraerythrocytic cell cycle has been the focus of many researches seeking for alternatives to the control of malaria. The antimalarial effect of a native cationic polypeptide from the venom of a South American rattlesnake named crotamine, with ability of targeting and disrupting the acidic compartments of Plasmodium falciparum parasite, was previously described by us. Herein, we extended our previous studies by investigating the internalization and trafficking of crotamine in P. falciparum-infected erythrocytes at different blood-stages of parasites and periods of incubation. In addition, the effects of several pharmacological inhibitors in the uptake of this snake polypeptide with cell-penetrating properties were also assessed, showing that crotamine internalization was dependent on ATP generated via glycolytic pathway. We show here that crotamine uptake is blocked by the glycolysis inhibitor 2- deoxy-D-glucose, and the most efficient internalization is observed at trophozoite stage of parasite after at least 30 min of incubation. The present data provide important insights into biochemical pathway and cellular features determined by the parasite cycle, which may be underlying the internalization and effects of cationic antimalarials as crotamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- S El Chamy Maluf
- Departamento de Biofísica, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M A F Hayashi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - J D Campeiro
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - E B Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade de São Paulo (USP-RP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - M L Gazarini
- Departamento de Biociências, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - A K Carmona
- Departamento de Biofísica, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil.
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13
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Porta LC, Campeiro JD, Hayashi MAF. A Native CPP from Rattlesnake with Therapeutic and Theranostic Properties. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2383:91-104. [PMID: 34766284 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1752-6_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are characterized by the ability of internalization into cells in vitro and in vivo, and the ability of these peptides can rely on a high content of positive charges, as it is the case of the native CPP crotamine. Crotamine is a polypeptide of about 42 amino acid residues with high content of basic residues as Arg and Lys. Although most of known CPPs are linear peptides, native crotamine from the venom of a South American rattlesnake has a well-defined 3D structure stabilized by three disulfide bonds which guarantee the exposure of side chains of basic amino acids. This 3D structure also protects this amphipathic polypeptide from the degradation even if administered by oral route, therefore, protecting also the biological activities of crotamine. As several different biological properties of crotamine are dependent of cell penetration, the methods mainly employed for analyzing crotamine properties as anthelminthic and antimalarial activities, antimicrobial and antitumor activities, with a unique selective cytotoxic property against actively proliferating cells, as tumor cells, were chosen based on crotamine ability of internalization mediated by its positive charge. This native cationic polypeptide is also able to efficiently carry, with no need of covalent linkage with the cargo, genetic material into cells in vitro and in vivo, suggesting its use in gene therapy. Moreover, the possibility of decorating gold nanoparticles keeping the ability of transfecting cells was demonstrated. More recently, the ability of crotamine to interfere in animal metabolism, inducing browning of adipose tissue and increasing the energy expenditure, and its application in renal therapy was demonstrated. As crotamine also accumulates specifically in tumor cells in vivo, and the potential utility of crotamine as a theranostic agent was then suggested. Therefore, diverse methodologies employed for the characterization and exploration of the therapeutic applications of this promising native CPP for remediation of several pathogenic conditions are presented here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas C Porta
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Joana D'Arc Campeiro
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Mirian A F Hayashi
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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14
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OUP accepted manuscript. Med Mycol 2022; 60:6526320. [PMID: 35142862 PMCID: PMC8929677 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myac008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Candida auris is an emerging, multi drug resistant fungal pathogen that has caused infectious outbreaks in over 45 countries since its first isolation over a decade ago, leading to in-hospital crude mortality rates as high as 72%. The fungus is also acclimated to disinfection procedures and persists for weeks in nosocomial ecosystems. Alarmingly, the outbreaks of C. auris infections in Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients have also been reported. The pathogenicity, drug resistance and global spread of C. auris have led to an urgent exploration of novel, candidate antifungal agents for C. auris therapeutics. This narrative review codifies the emerging data on the following new/emerging antifungal compounds and strategies: antimicrobial peptides, combinational therapy, immunotherapy, metals and nano particles, natural compounds, and repurposed drugs. Encouragingly, a vast majority of these exhibit excellent anti- C. auris properties, with promising drugs now in the pipeline in various stages of development. Nevertheless, further research on the modes of action, toxicity, and the dosage of the new formulations are warranted. Studies are needed with representation from all five C. auris clades, so as to produce data of grater relevance, and broader significance and validity.
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15
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Antimicrobial Activity of Snake β-Defensins and Derived Peptides. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 14:toxins14010001. [PMID: 35050978 PMCID: PMC8777785 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14010001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
β-defensins are antimicrobial peptides presenting in vertebrate animals. They participate in innate immunity, but little is known about them in reptiles, including snakes. Although several β-defensin genes were described in Brazilian snakes, their function is still unknown. The peptide sequence from these genes was deduced, and synthetic peptides (with approximately 40 amino acids and derived peptides) were tested against pathogenic bacteria and fungi using microbroth dilution assays. The linear peptides, derived from β-defensins, were designed applying the bioisosterism strategy. The linear β-defensins were more active against Escherichia coli, Micrococcus luteus, Citrobacter freundii, and Staphylococcus aureus. The derived peptides (7–14 mer) showed antibacterial activity against those bacteria and on Klebsiella pneumoniae. Nonetheless, they did not present activity against Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, Trychophyton rubrum, and Aspergillus fumigatus showing that the cysteine substitution to serine is deleterious to antifungal properties. Tryptophan residue showed to be necessary to improve antibacterial activity. Even though the studied snake β-defensins do not have high antimicrobial activity, they proved to be attractive as template molecules for the development of antibiotics.
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Hayashi MAF, Campeiro JD, Yonamine CM. Revisiting the potential of South American rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus toxins as therapeutic, theranostic and/or biotechnological agents. Toxicon 2021; 206:1-13. [PMID: 34896407 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.12.005] [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: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The potential biotechnological and biomedical applications of the animal venom components are widely recognized. Indeed, many components have been used either as drugs or as templates/prototypes for the development of innovative pharmaceutical drugs, among which many are still used for the treatment of human diseases. A specific South American rattlesnake, named Crotalus durissus terrificus, shows a venom composition relatively simpler compared to any viper or other snake species belonging to the Crotalus genus, although presenting a set of toxins with high potential for the treatment of several still unmet human therapeutic needs, as reviewed in this work. In addition to the main toxin named crotoxin, which is under clinical trials studies for antitumoral therapy and which has also anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive activities, other toxins from the C. d. terrificus venom are also being studied, aiming for a wide variety of therapeutic applications, including as antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, antitumoral or antiparasitic agent, or as modulator of animal metabolism, fibrin sealant (fibrin glue), gene carrier or theranostic agent. Among these rattlesnake toxins, the most relevant, considering the potential clinical applications, are crotamine, crotalphine and gyroxin. In this narrative revision, we propose to organize and present briefly the updates in the accumulated knowledge on potential therapeutic applications of toxins collectively found exclusively in the venom of this specific South American rattlesnake, with the objective of contributing to increase the chances of success in the discovery of drugs based on toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirian A F Hayashi
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), SP, Brazil.
| | - Joana D Campeiro
- Department of Pharmacology, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), SP, Brazil
| | - Camila M Yonamine
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), SP, Brazil.
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Baudou FG, Rodriguez JP, Fusco L, de Roodt AR, De Marzi MC, Leiva L. South American snake venoms with abundant neurotoxic components. Composition and toxicological properties. A literature review. Acta Trop 2021; 224:106119. [PMID: 34481791 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In South America there are three snake genera with predominantly neurotoxic venoms: Crotalus, Micrurus and Hydrophis, which include nine species/subspecies, 97 species and a single marine species, respectively. Although accidents with neurotoxic venoms are less frequent than those with anticoagulant, cytotoxic or necrotic venoms (e.g. from Bothrops), they are of major public health importance. Venoms from genus Crotalus have been extensively studied, while data on the venoms from the other two genera are very limited, especially for Hydrophis. The venoms of North and South American Crotalus species show biochemical and physiopathological differences. The former species cause bothrops-like envenomation symptoms, while the latter mainly have neurotoxic and myotoxic effects, leading to respiratory paralysis and, occasionally, renal failure by myoglobinuria and death, often with no local lesions. Micrurus and Hydrophis also cause neurotoxic envenomations. Many studies have isolated, identified and characterized new enzymes and toxins, thus expanding the knowledge of snake venom composition. The present review summarizes the currently available information on neurotoxic venoms from South American snakes, with a focus on protein composition and toxicological properties. It also includes some comments concerning potential medical applications of elapid and crotalic toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico G Baudou
- Universidad Nacional de Luján (UNLu), Depto. de Ciencias Básicas, Luján, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Laboratorio de Inmunología, Instituto de Ecología y Desarrollo Sustentable (INEDES), UNLu-CONICET, Luján, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Juan P Rodriguez
- Laboratorio de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de la Facultad de Medicina (LIBIM), Instituto de Química Básica y Aplicada del Nordeste Argentino (IQUIBA-NEA), Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (UNNE-CONICET), Corrientes, Argentina
| | - Luciano Fusco
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Proteínas (LabInPro), IQUIBA-NEA (UNNE, CONICET), FaCENA, (UNNE), Corrientes, Argentina
| | - Adolfo R de Roodt
- Área Investigación y Desarrollo-Venenos, Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos, Administración Nacional de Laboratorios e Institutos de Salud "Dr. Carlos G. Malbrán", Ministerio de Salud de la Nación, Argentina; Primera Cátedra de Toxicología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Laboratorio de Toxinopatología, Centro de Patología Experimental y Aplicada, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mauricio C De Marzi
- Universidad Nacional de Luján (UNLu), Depto. de Ciencias Básicas, Luján, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Laboratorio de Inmunología, Instituto de Ecología y Desarrollo Sustentable (INEDES), UNLu-CONICET, Luján, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Leiva
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Proteínas (LabInPro), IQUIBA-NEA (UNNE, CONICET), FaCENA, (UNNE), Corrientes, Argentina
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18
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Malacrida AM, Salci TP, Negri M, Svidzinski TI. Insight into the antifungals used to address human infection due to Trichosporon spp.: a scoping review. Future Microbiol 2021; 16:1277-1288. [PMID: 34689610 PMCID: PMC8544482 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2021-0048] [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] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichosporonosis infections have been increasing worldwide. Providing adequate treatment for these infections remains a challenge. This scoping review contains information about potential antifungals to treat this pathology. Using online databases, we found 76 articles published between 2010 and 2020 related to this topic. Classic antifungals, molecules and biomolecules, repositioned drugs and natural products have been tested against species of Trichosporon. Experimental research has lacked depth or was limited to in vitro and in vivo tests, so there are no promising new candidates for the clinical treatment of patients with trichosporonosis. Furthermore, most studies did not present appropriate scientific criteria for drug tests, compromising their quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda M Malacrida
- Departament of Clinical Analyses and Biomedicine, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, Paraná, CEP, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Tânia P Salci
- Departament of Pharmacy and Science, Faculdade Integrado de Campo Mourão, Campo Mourão, Paraná, CEP, 87300-970, Brazil
| | - Melyssa Negri
- Departament of Clinical Analyses and Biomedicine, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, Paraná, CEP, 87020-900, Brazil
| | - Terezinha Ie Svidzinski
- Departament of Clinical Analyses and Biomedicine, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, Paraná, CEP, 87020-900, Brazil
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19
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Antimicrobial peptidomes of Bothrops atrox and Bothrops jararacussu snake venoms. Amino Acids 2021; 53:1635-1648. [PMID: 34482475 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-021-03055-y] [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: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The worrisome emergence of pathogens resistant to conventional drugs has stimulated the search for new classes of antimicrobial and antiparasitic agents from natural sources. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), acting through mechanisms that do not rely on the interaction with a specific receptor, provide new possibilities for the development of drugs against resistant organisms. This study sought to purify and proteomically characterize the antimicrobial and antiparasitic peptidomes of B. atrox and B. jararacussu snake venoms against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus-MRSA), Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae) bacteria, and the protozoan parasites Leishmania amazonensis and Plasmodium falciparum (clone W2, resistant to chloroquine). To this end, B. atrox and B. jararacussu venom peptides were purified by combination of 3 kDa cut-off Amicon® ultracentrifugal filters and reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography, and then identified by electrospray-ionization Ion-Trap/Time-of-Flight mass spectrometry. Fourteen distinct peptides, with masses ranging from 443.17 to 1383.73 Da and primary structure between 3 and 13 amino acid residues, were sequenced. Among them, 13 contained unique sequences, including 4 novel bradykinin-potentiating-like peptides (BPPs), and a snake venom metalloproteinase tripeptide inhibitor (SVMPi). Although commonly found in Viperidae venoms, except for Bax-12, the BPPs and SVMPi here reported had not been described in B. atrox and B. jararacussu venoms. Among the novel peptides, some exhibited bactericidal activity towards P. aeruginosa and S. aureus, had low hemolytic effect, and were devoid of antiparasitic activity. The identified novel antimicrobial peptides may be relevant in the development of new drugs for the management of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria.
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20
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Ajingi YS, Rukying N, Aroonsri A, Jongruja N. Recombinant active Peptides and their Therapeutic functions. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2021; 23:645-663. [PMID: 34225618 DOI: 10.2174/1389201022666210702123934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant active peptides are utilized as diagnostic and biotherapeutics in various maladies and as bacterial growth inhibitors in the food industry. This consequently stimulated the need for recombinant peptides' production, which resulted in about 19 approved biotech peptides of 1-100 amino acids commercially available. While most peptides have been produced by chemical synthesis, the production of lengthy and complicated peptides comprising natural amino acids has been problematic with low quantity. Recombinant peptide production has become very vital, cost-effective, simple, environmentally friendly with satisfactory yields. Several reviews have focused on discussing expression systems, advantages, disadvantages, and alternatives strategies. Additionally, the information on the antimicrobial activities and other functions of multiple recombinant peptides is challenging to access and is scattered in literature apart from the food and drug administration (FDA) approved ones. From the reports that come to our knowledge, there is no existing review that offers substantial information on recombinant active peptides developed by researchers and their functions. This review provides an overview of some successfully produced recombinant active peptides of ≤100 amino acids by focusing on their antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, antioxidant, antimalarial, and immune-modulatory functions. It also elucidates their modes of expression that could be adopted and applied in future investigations. We expect that the knowledge available in this review would help researchers involved in recombinant active peptide development for therapeutic uses and other applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya'u Sabo Ajingi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), Bangkok. Thailand
| | - Neeranuch Rukying
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST), Wudil. Nigeria
| | - Aiyada Aroonsri
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), Pathum Thani. Thailand
| | - Nujarin Jongruja
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Kano University of Science and Technology (KUST), Wudil. Nigeria
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21
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Akhtar B, Muhammad F, Sharif A, Anwar MI. Mechanistic insights of snake venom disintegrins in cancer treatment. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 899:174022. [PMID: 33727054 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Snake venoms are a potential source of various enzymatic and non-enzymatic compounds with a defensive role for the host. Various peptides with significant medicinal properties have been isolated and characterized from these venoms. Few of these are FDA approved. They inhibit tumor cells adhesion, migration, angiogenesis and metastasis by inhibiting integrins on transmembrane cellular surfaces. This plays important role in delaying tumor growth, neovascularization and development. Tumor targeting and smaller size make them ideal candidates as novel therapeutic agents for cancer treatment. This review is based on sources of these disintegrins, their targeting modality, classification and underlying anti-cancer potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bushra Akhtar
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan.
| | - Faqir Muhammad
- Institute of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Ali Sharif
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Irfan Anwar
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
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22
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Santana FL, Estrada K, Ortiz E, Corzo G. Reptilian β-defensins: Expanding the repertoire of known crocodylian peptides. Peptides 2021; 136:170473. [PMID: 33309943 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2020.170473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
One of the major families of host defense peptides (HDPs) in vertebrates are β-defensins. They constitute important components of innate immunity and have remained an interesting topic of research for more than two decades. While many β-defensin sequences in mammals and birds have been identified and their properties and functions characterized, β-defensin peptides from other groups of vertebrates, particularly reptiles, are still largely unexplored. In this review, we focus on reptilian β-defensins and summarize different aspects of their biology, such as their genomic organization, evolution, structure, and biological activities. Reptilian β-defensin genes exhibit similar genomic organization to birds and their number and gene structure are variable among different species. During the evolution of reptiles, several gene duplication and deletion events have occurred and the functional diversification of β-defensins has been mainly driven by positive selection. These peptides display broad antimicrobial activity in vitro, but a deeper understanding of their mechanisms of action in vivo, including their role as immunomodulators, is still lacking. Reptilian β-defensins constitute unique polypeptide sequences to expand our current understanding of innate immunity in these animals and elucidate core biological functions of this family of HDPs across amniotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix L Santana
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, A.P. 510-3, Cuernavaca Mor., 62250, Mexico.
| | - Karel Estrada
- Unidad de Secuenciación Masiva y Bioinformática, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Ernesto Ortiz
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, A.P. 510-3, Cuernavaca Mor., 62250, Mexico
| | - Gerardo Corzo
- Departamento de Medicina Molecular y Bioprocesos, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, A.P. 510-3, Cuernavaca Mor., 62250, Mexico.
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23
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de Carvalho Porta L, Fadel V, D'Arc Campeiro J, Oliveira EB, Godinho RO, Hayashi MAF. Biophysical and pharmacological characterization of a full-length synthetic analog of the antitumor polypeptide crotamine. J Mol Med (Berl) 2020; 98:1561-1571. [PMID: 32895732 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-020-01975-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Crotamine is a polypeptide isolated from the venom of a South American rattlesnake. Among the properties and biological activities of crotamine, the most extraordinary is its ability to enter cells with unique selective affinity and cytotoxic activity against actively proliferating cells, such as tumor cells. This peptide is also a cargo carrier, and anticipating commercial application of this native polypeptide as a potential theranostic compound against cancer, we performed here a side-by-side characterization of a chemically synthesized full-length crotamine compared with its native counterpart. The structural, biophysical, and pharmacological properties were evaluated. Comparative NMR studies showed structural conservation of synthetic crotamine. Moreover, similarly to native crotamine, the synthetic polypeptide was also capable of inhibiting tumor growth in vivo, increasing the survival of mice bearing subcutaneous tumor. We also confirmed the ability of synthetic crotamine to transfect and transport DNA into eukaryotic cells, in addition to the importance of proteoglycans on cell surface for its internalization. This work opens new opportunities for future evaluation of chimeric and/or point-mutated analogs of this snake polypeptide, aiming for improving crotamine properties and applications, as well as possibly diminishing its potential toxic effects. KEY MESSAGES: • Synthetic crotamine showed ex vivo and in vivo activities similar to native peptide. • Synthetic crotamine structure conservation was demonstrated by NMR analysis. • Synthetic crotamine is able to transfect and transport DNA into eukaryotic cells. • Synthetic crotamine shows tumor growth inhibition in vivo. • Synthetic crotamine increases survival of mice bearing tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas de Carvalho Porta
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua 3 de maio 100, Ed. INFAR, 3rd floor, São Paulo, CEP 04044-020, Brazil
| | - Valmir Fadel
- Universidade Estadual de São Paulo (UNESP), São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Joana D'Arc Campeiro
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua 3 de maio 100, Ed. INFAR, 3rd floor, São Paulo, CEP 04044-020, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Brandt Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade de São Paulo (USP-FMRP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Rosely Oliveira Godinho
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua 3 de maio 100, Ed. INFAR, 3rd floor, São Paulo, CEP 04044-020, Brazil
| | - Mirian Akemi Furuie Hayashi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Rua 3 de maio 100, Ed. INFAR, 3rd floor, São Paulo, CEP 04044-020, Brazil.
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24
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Kuna E, Bocian A, Hus KK, Petrilla V, Petrillova M, Legath J, Lewinska A, Wnuk M. Evaluation of Antifungal Activity of Naja pallida and Naja mossambica Venoms against Three Candida Species. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12080500. [PMID: 32759763 PMCID: PMC7472363 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12080500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In contrast to comprehensively investigated antibacterial activity of snake venoms, namely crude venoms and their selected components, little is known about antifungal properties of elapid snake venoms. In the present study, the proteome of two venoms of red spitting cobra Naja pallida (NPV) and Mozambique spitting cobra Naja mossambica (NMV) was characterized using LC-MS/MS approach, and the antifungal activity of crude venoms against three Candida species was established. A complex response to venom treatment was revealed. NPV and NMV, when used at relatively high concentrations, decreased cell viability of C. albicans and C. tropicalis, affected cell cycle of C. albicans, inhibited C. tropicalis-based biofilm formation and promoted oxidative stress in C. albicans, C. glabrata and C. tropicalis cells. NPV and NMV also modulated ammonia pulses during colony development and aging in three Candida species. All these observations provide evidence that NPV and NMV may diminish selected pathogenic features of Candida species. However, NPV and NMV also promoted the secretion of extracellular phospholipases that may facilitate Candida pathogenicity and limit their usefulness as anti-candidal agents. In conclusion, antifungal activity of snake venoms should be studied with great caution and a plethora of pathogenic biomarkers should be considered in the future experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewelina Kuna
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Rzeszow, 35-310 Rzeszow, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Bocian
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Chemistry, Rzeszow University of Technology, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland; (A.B.); (K.K.H.); (J.L.)
| | - Konrad K. Hus
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Chemistry, Rzeszow University of Technology, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland; (A.B.); (K.K.H.); (J.L.)
| | - Vladimir Petrilla
- Department of Physiology, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 041 81 Kosice, Slovak Republic;
- Zoological Department, Zoological Garden Kosice, 040 06 Kosice, Slovak Republic
| | - Monika Petrillova
- Department of General Education Subjects, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 041 81 Kosice, Slovak Republic;
| | - Jaroslav Legath
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Chemistry, Rzeszow University of Technology, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland; (A.B.); (K.K.H.); (J.L.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 041 81 Kosice, Slovak Republic
| | - Anna Lewinska
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Rzeszow, 35-310 Rzeszow, Poland;
- Correspondence: (A.L.); (M.W.); Tel.: +48-17-851-86-09 (A.L. & M.W.)
| | - Maciej Wnuk
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Rzeszow, 35-310 Rzeszow, Poland;
- Correspondence: (A.L.); (M.W.); Tel.: +48-17-851-86-09 (A.L. & M.W.)
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25
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Porta LC, Campeiro JD, Papa GB, Oliveira EB, Godinho RO, Rodrigues T, Hayashi MAF. In vivo effects of the association of the psychoactive phenotiazine thioridazine on antitumor activity and hind limb paralysis induced by the native polypeptide crotamine. Toxicon 2020; 185:64-71. [PMID: 32621838 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Crotamine is a cationic polypeptide composed by 42 amino acid residues with several pharmacological and biological properties, including the selective ability to enter and kill actively proliferating tumour cells, which led us to propose its use as a theranostic agent for cancer therapy. At the moment, the improvement of crotamine antitumoral efficacy by association with chemotherapeutic adjuvants is envisioned. In the present work, we evaluated the association of crotamine with the antitumoral adjuvant phenotiazine thioridazine (THD). In spite of the clear efficacy of these both compounds as anticancer agents in long-term in vivo treatment of animal model bearing implanted xenograph melanoma tumor, the expected mutual potentiation of the antitumor effects was not observed here. Moreover, this association revealed for the first time the influence of THD on crotamine ability to trigger the hind limb paralysis in mice, and this discovery may represent the first report suggesting the potential involvement of the CNS in the action of this snake polypeptide on the skeletal muscle paralysis, which was classically believed to be essentially limited to a direct action in peripheral tissues as the skeletal muscle. This is also supported by the observed ability of crotamine to potentiate the sedative effects of THD which action was consistently demonstrated to be based on its central action. The better characterization of crotamine properties in CNS may certainly bring important insights for the knowledge needed to pave the way toward the use of this molecule as a theranostic compound in human diseases as cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas C Porta
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), SP, Brazil
| | - Joana D Campeiro
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), SP, Brazil
| | - Giovanna B Papa
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo B Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade de São Paulo (USP-RP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Rosely O Godinho
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), SP, Brazil
| | | | - Mirian A F Hayashi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), SP, Brazil.
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26
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Yacoub T, Rima M, Karam M, Sabatier JM, Fajloun Z. Antimicrobials from Venomous Animals: An Overview. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25102402. [PMID: 32455792 PMCID: PMC7287856 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25102402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The inappropriate or excessive use of antimicrobial agents caused an emerging public health problem due to the resulting resistance developed by microbes. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop effective antimicrobial strategies relying on natural agents with different mechanisms of action. Nature has been known to offer many bioactive compounds, in the form of animal venoms, algae, and plant extracts that were used for decades in traditional medicine. Animal venoms and secretions have been deeply studied for their wealth in pharmaceutically promising molecules. As such, they were reported to exhibit many biological activities of interest, such as antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory activities. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the antimicrobial activities of crude animal venoms/secretions, and describe the peptides that are responsible of these activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Yacoub
- Department of Biology, University of Balamand, Kalhat, Al-Kurah, P.O. box 100 Tripoli, Lebanon; (T.Y.); (M.K.)
| | - Mohamad Rima
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), INSERM U964, CNRS U7104, Université de Strasbourg, 67400 Illkirch, France;
| | - Marc Karam
- Department of Biology, University of Balamand, Kalhat, Al-Kurah, P.O. box 100 Tripoli, Lebanon; (T.Y.); (M.K.)
| | - Jean-Marc Sabatier
- Université Aix-Marseille, Institut de NeuroPhysiopathologie, UMR 7051, Faculté de Médecine Secteur Nord, 51, Boulevard Pierre Dramard-CS80011, 13344-Marseille CEDEX 15, France
- Correspondence: (J.-M.S.); (Z.F.)
| | - Ziad Fajloun
- Faculty of Sciences 3, Lebanese University, Michel Slayman Tripoli Campus, Ras Maska 1352, Lebanon
- Laboratory of Applied Biotechnology (LBA3B), Azm Center for Research in Biotechnology and its Applications, Doctoral School for Sciences and Technology, Lebanese University, El Mittein Street, 1300 Tripoli, Lebanon
- Correspondence: (J.-M.S.); (Z.F.)
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27
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Hitchhiking with Nature: Snake Venom Peptides to Fight Cancer and Superbugs. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12040255. [PMID: 32326531 PMCID: PMC7232197 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12040255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract For decades, natural products in general and snake venoms (SV) in particular have been a rich source of bioactive compounds for drug discovery, and they remain a promising substrate for therapeutic development. Currently, a handful of SV-based drugs for diagnosis and treatment of various cardiovascular disorders and blood abnormalities are on the market. Likewise, far more SV compounds and their mimetics are under investigation today for diverse therapeutic applications, including antibiotic-resistant bacteria and cancer. In this review, we analyze the state of the art regarding SV-derived compounds with therapeutic potential, focusing on the development of antimicrobial and anticancer drugs. Specifically, information about SV peptides experimentally validated or predicted to act as antimicrobial and anticancer peptides (AMPs and ACPs, respectively) has been collected and analyzed. Their principal activities both in vitro and in vivo, structures, mechanisms of action, and attempts at sequence optimization are discussed in order to highlight their potential as drug leads. Key Contribution This review describes the state of the art in snake venom-derived peptides and their therapeutic applications. This work reinforces the potential of snake venom components as therapeutic agents, particularly in the quest for new antimicrobial and anticancer drugs.
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Falcao CB, Radis-Baptista G. Crotamine and crotalicidin, membrane active peptides from Crotalus durissus terrificus rattlesnake venom, and their structurally-minimized fragments for applications in medicine and biotechnology. Peptides 2020; 126:170234. [PMID: 31857106 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2019.170234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A global public health crisis has emerged with the extensive dissemination of multidrug-resistant microorganisms. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from plants and animals have represented promising tools to counteract those resistant pathogens due to their multiple pharmacological properties such as antimicrobial, anticancer, immunomodulatory and cell-penetrating activities. In this review, we will focus on crotamine and crotalicidin, which are two interesting examples of membrane active peptides derived from the South America rattlesnake Crotalus durrisus terrificus venom. Their full-sequences and structurally-minimized fragments have potential applications, as anti-infective and anti-proliferative agents and diagnostics in medicine and in pharmaceutical biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Borges Falcao
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Brazil; Peter Pan Association to Fight Childhood Cancer, Fortaleza, CE, 60410-770, Brazil.
| | - Gandhi Radis-Baptista
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate program in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Av da Abolição 3207, Fortaleza, CE, 60165-081, Brazil.
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29
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Conceição K, de Cena GL, da Silva VA, de Oliveira Neto XA, de Andrade VM, Tada DB, Richardson M, de Andrade SA, Dias SA, Castanho MARB, Lopes-Ferreira M. Design of bioactive peptides derived from CART sequence isolated from the toadfish Thalassophryne nattereri. 3 Biotech 2020; 10:162. [PMID: 32206496 PMCID: PMC7060301 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-020-2151-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of bacterial resistance due to the indiscriminate use of antibiotics warrants the need for developing new bioactive agents. In this context, antimicrobial peptides are highly useful for managing resistant microbial strains. In this study, we report the isolation and characterization of peptides obtained from the venom of the toadfish Thalassophryne nattereri. These peptides were active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi. The primary amino acid sequences showed similarity to Cocaine and Amphetamine Regulated Transcript peptides, and two peptide analogs-Tn CRT2 and Tn CRT3-were designed using the AMPA algorithm based on these sequences. The analogs were subjected to physicochemical analysis and antimicrobial screening and were biologically active at concentrations ranging from 2.1 to 13 µM. Zeta potential analysis showed that the peptide analogs increased the positive charge on the cell surface of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The toxicity of Tn CRT2 and Tn CRT3 were analyzed in vitro using a hemolytic assay and tetrazolium salt reduction in fibroblasts and was found to be significant only at high concentrations (up to 40 µM). These results suggest that this methodological approach is appropriate to design novel antimicrobial peptides to fight bacterial infections and represents a new and promising discovery in fish venom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Conceição
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Peptídeos, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Gabrielle L. de Cena
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Peptídeos, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Verônica A. da Silva
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Peptídeos, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Xisto Antonio de Oliveira Neto
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Peptídeos, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Vitor Martins de Andrade
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Peptídeos, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Dayane Batista Tada
- Laboratório de Nanomateriais e Nanotoxicologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP, Rua Talim, 330, São José dos Campos, Brazil
| | - Michael Richardson
- Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento Prof. Carlos R. Diniz, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Rua Conde Pereira Carneiro 80, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Sonia A. de Andrade
- Laboratório Especial de Toxicologia Aplicada, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil, São Paulo, 1500 Brazil
| | - Susana A. Dias
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649‐028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Miguel A. R. B. Castanho
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649‐028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mônica Lopes-Ferreira
- Laboratório Especial de Toxicologia Aplicada, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil, São Paulo, 1500 Brazil
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30
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Snake Venoms in Drug Discovery: Valuable Therapeutic Tools for Life Saving. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11100564. [PMID: 31557973 PMCID: PMC6832721 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11100564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal venoms are used as defense mechanisms or to immobilize and digest prey. In fact, venoms are complex mixtures of enzymatic and non-enzymatic components with specific pathophysiological functions. Peptide toxins isolated from animal venoms target mainly ion channels, membrane receptors and components of the hemostatic system with high selectivity and affinity. The present review shows an up-to-date survey on the pharmacology of snake-venom bioactive components and evaluates their therapeutic perspectives against a wide range of pathophysiological conditions. Snake venoms have also been used as medical tools for thousands of years especially in tradition Chinese medicine. Consequently, snake venoms can be considered as mini-drug libraries in which each drug is pharmacologically active. However, less than 0.01% of these toxins have been identified and characterized. For instance, Captopril® (Enalapril), Integrilin® (Eptifibatide) and Aggrastat® (Tirofiban) are drugs based on snake venoms, which have been approved by the FDA. In addition to these approved drugs, many other snake venom components are now involved in preclinical or clinical trials for a variety of therapeutic applications. These examples show that snake venoms can be a valuable source of new principle components in drug discovery.
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31
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Dal Mas C, Rossato L, Shimizu T, Oliveira EB, da Silva Junior PI, Meis JF, Colombo AL, Hayashi MAF. Effects of the Natural Peptide Crotamine from a South American Rattlesnake on Candida auris, an Emergent Multidrug Antifungal Resistant Human Pathogen. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9060205. [PMID: 31141959 PMCID: PMC6627186 DOI: 10.3390/biom9060205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive Candida infections are an important growing medical concern and treatment options are limited to a few antifungal drug classes, with limited efficacies depending on the infecting organism. In this scenario, invasive infections caused by multiresistant Candida auris are emerging in several places around the world as important healthcare-associated infections. As antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) exert their activities primarily through mechanisms involving membrane disruption, they have a lower chance of inducing drug resistance than general chemical antimicrobials. Interestingly, we previously described the potent candicidal effect of a rattlesnake AMP, crotamine, against standard and treatment-resistant clinical isolates, with no hemolytic activity. We evaluated the antifungal susceptibility of several Candida spp. strains cultured from different patients by using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) microdilution assay, and the antifungal activity of native crotamine was evaluated by a microbial growth inhibition microdilution assay. Although all Candida isolates evaluated here showed resistance to amphotericin B and fluconazole, crotamine (40–80 µM) exhibited in vitro activity against most isolates tested. We suggest that this native polypeptide from the South American rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus has potential as a structural model for the generation of a new class of antimicrobial compounds with the power to fight against multiresistant Candida spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Dal Mas
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo SP 04038-032, Brazil.
| | - Luana Rossato
- Departamento de Medicina, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo SP 04038-032, Brazil.
| | - Thaís Shimizu
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo SP 04038-032, Brazil.
| | - Eduardo B Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade de São Paulo (USP-RP), Ribeirão Preto SP 14049-900, Brazil.
| | - Pedro I da Silva Junior
- Special Laboratory for Applied Toxinology (LETA), Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS), Butantan Institute, São Paulo SP 05503-900, Brazil.
| | - Jacques F Meis
- Center of Expertise in Mycology Radboudumc/CWZ, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Canisius-Wilhelmina Hospital (CWZ), 6532 Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Arnaldo Lopes Colombo
- Departamento de Medicina, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo SP 04038-032, Brazil.
| | - Mirian A F Hayashi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo SP 04038-032, Brazil.
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32
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Campeiro JD, Dam W, Monte GG, Porta LC, Oliveira LCGD, Nering MB, Viana GM, Carapeto FC, Oliveira EB, van den Born J, Hayashi MAF. Long term safety of targeted internalization of cell penetrating peptide crotamine into renal proximal tubular epithelial cells in vivo. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3312. [PMID: 30824773 PMCID: PMC6397221 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-39842-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Activated proximal tubular epithelial cells (PTECs) play a crucial role in progressive tubulo-interstitial fibrosis in native and transplanted kidneys. Targeting PTECs by non-viral delivery vectors might be useful to influence the expression of important genes and/or proteins in order to slow down renal function loss. However, no clinical therapies that specifically target PTECs are available at present. We earlier showed that a cationic cell penetrating peptide isolated from South American rattlesnake venom, named crotamine, recognizes cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans and accumulates in cells. In healthy mice, crotamine accumulates mainly in kidneys after intraperitoneal (ip) injection. Herein we demonstrate for the first time, the overall safety of acute or long-term treatment with daily ip administrated crotamine for kidneys functions. Accumulation of ip injected crotamine in the kidney brush border zone of PTECs, and its presence inside these cells were observed. In addition, significant lower in vitro crotamine binding, uptake and reporter gene transport and expression could be observed in syndecan-1 deficient HK-2 PTECs compared to wild-type cells, indicating that the absence of syndecan-1 impairs crotamine uptake into PTECs. Taken together, our present data show the safety of in vivo long-term treatment with crotamine, and its preferential uptake into PTECs, which are especially rich in HSPGs such as syndecan-1. In addition to the demonstrated in vitro gene delivery mediated by crotamine in HK-2 cells, the potential applicability of crotamine as prototypic non-viral (gene) delivery nanocarrier to modulate PTEC gene and/or protein expression was confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Darc Campeiro
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Wendy Dam
- Department Nephrology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Gabriela Guilherme Monte
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas Carvalho Porta
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Marcela Bego Nering
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Monteiro Viana
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernando Cintra Carapeto
- Departamento de Patologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Brandt Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade de São Paulo (USP-FMRP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Jacob van den Born
- Department Nephrology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Mirian A F Hayashi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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33
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Zainal Abidin SA, Lee YQ, Othman I, Naidu R. Malaysian Cobra Venom: A Potential Source of Anti-Cancer Therapeutic Agents. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11020075. [PMID: 30717096 PMCID: PMC6409816 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11020075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a deadly disease and there is an urgent need for the development of effective and safe therapeutic agents to treat it. Snake venom is a complex mixture of bioactive proteins that represents an attractive source of novel and naturally-derived anticancer agents. Malaysia is one of the world’s most biodiverse countries and is home to various venomous snake species, including cobras. Naja kaouthia, Naja sumatrana, and Ophiophagus hannah are three of the most common cobra species in Malaysia and are of medical importance. Over the past decades, snake venom has been identified as a potential source of therapeutic agents, including anti-cancer agents. This present review highlights the potential anticancer activity of the venom and purified venom protein of N. kaouthia, N. sumatrana, and O. hannah. In conclusion, this review highlights the important role of the venom from Malaysian cobras as an important resource that researchers can exploit to further investigate its potential in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syafiq Asnawi Zainal Abidin
- Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LCMS) Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
| | - Yee Qian Lee
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
| | - Iekhsan Othman
- Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LCMS) Platform, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
| | - Rakesh Naidu
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Bandar Sunway 47500, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia.
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34
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Silvestrini AVP, de Macedo LH, de Andrade TAM, Mendes MF, Pigoso AA, Mazzi MV. Intradermal Application of Crotamine Induces Inflammatory and Immunological Changes In Vivo. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:toxins11010039. [PMID: 30646542 PMCID: PMC6357061 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11010039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2018] [Revised: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Crotamine is a single-chain polypeptide with cell-penetrating properties, which is considered a promising molecule for clinical use. Nevertheless, its biosafety data are still scarce. Herein, we assessed the in vivo proinflammatory properties of crotamine, including its local effect and systemic serum parameters. Sixty male Wistar rats were intradermically injected with 200, 400 and 800 µg crotamine and analyzed after 1, 3 and 7 days. Local effect of crotamine was assessed by determination of MPO and NAG activities, NO levels and angiogenesis. Systemic inflammatory response was assessed by determination of IL-10, TNF-α, CRP, NO, TBARS and SH groups. Crotamine induced macrophages and neutrophils chemotaxis as evidenced by the upregulation of both NAG (0.5–0.6 OD/mg) and MPO (0.1–0.2 OD/mg) activities, on the first and third day of analysis, respectively. High levels of NO were observed for all concentrations and time-points. Moreover, 800 μg crotamine resulted in serum NO (64.7 μM) and local tissue NO (58.5 μM) levels higher or equivalent to those recorded for their respective histamine controls (55.7 μM and 59.0 μM). Crotamine also induced a significant angiogenic response compared to histamine. Systemically, crotamine induced a progressive increase in serum CRP levels up to the third day of analysis (22.4–45.8 mg/mL), which was significantly greater than control values. Crotamine (400 μg) also caused an increase in serum TNF-α, in the first day of analysis (1095.4 pg/mL), however a significant increase in IL-10 (122.2 pg/mL) was also recorded for the same time-point, suggesting the induction of an anti-inflammatory effect. Finally, crotamine changed the systemic redox state by inducing gradual increase in serum levels of TBARS (1.0–1.8 μM/mL) and decrease in SH levels (124.7–19.5 μM/mL) throughout the experimental period of analysis. In summary, rats intradermally injected with crotamine presented local and systemic acute inflammatory responses similarly to histamine, which limits crotamine therapeutic use on its original form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Vitória Pupo Silvestrini
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, CEP 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Luana Henrique de Macedo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Av. do Café, s/n, CEP 14040-903 Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Thiago Antônio Moretti de Andrade
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, FHO-UNIARARAS, Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339 Araras, SP, Brazil.
| | - Maíra Felonato Mendes
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, FHO-UNIARARAS, Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339 Araras, SP, Brazil.
| | - Acácio Antônio Pigoso
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, FHO-UNIARARAS, Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339 Araras, SP, Brazil.
| | - Maurício Ventura Mazzi
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, FHO-UNIARARAS, Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339 Araras, SP, Brazil.
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Dietz JDC, Almeida DAD, Cintra LC, Oliveira BFRD, Magalhães MR, Jesuíno RSA. EVALUATION OF THE ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF Crotalus durissus terrificus CRUDE VENOM. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/1809-6891v19e-51322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract Snake venoms are recognized as a promising source of pharmacologically active substances and are potentially useful for the development of new antimicrobial drugs. This study aimed to investigate the antimicrobial activity of the venom from the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus against several bacteria. Antibacterial activity was determined by using the plate microdilution method and the activity on the bacterial envelope structure was screened by using the crystal violet assay. The proteins in crude venom were separated by electrophoresis and characterized regarding their proteolytic activity. C. d. terrificus venom exhibited antimicrobial action against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. MIC values were defined for Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 (62.5 µg/mL), Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 (125 µg/mL), and Micrococcus luteus ATCC 9341 (≤500 µg/mL). For Salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium ATCC 14028 and Corynebacterium glutamicum ATCC 13032, the decrease in bacterial growth was not detected visually, but was statistically significant. The crystal violet assay demonstrated that the crude venom increased bacterial cell permeability and the secreted protein profile agreed with previous reports. The results suggest that the proteins with lytic activity against bacteria in C. d. terrificus venom deserve further characterization as they may offer reinforcements to the weak therapeutic arsenal used to fight microbial multidrug resistance.
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Lima SDC, Porta LDC, Lima ÁDC, Campeiro JD, Meurer Y, Teixeira NB, Duarte T, Oliveira EB, Picolo G, Godinho RO, Silva RH, Hayashi MAF. Pharmacological characterization of crotamine effects on mice hind limb paralysis employing both ex vivo and in vivo assays: Insights into the involvement of voltage-gated ion channels in the crotamine action on skeletal muscles. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006700. [PMID: 30080908 PMCID: PMC6095621 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The high medical importance of Crotalus snakes is unquestionable, as this genus is the second in frequency of ophidian accidents in many countries, including Brazil. With a relative less complex composition compared to other genera venoms, as those from the Bothrops genus, the Crotalus genus venom from South America is composed basically by the neurotoxin crotoxin (a phospholipase A2), the thrombin-like gyroxin (a serinoprotease), a very potent aggregating protein convulxin, and a myotoxic polypeptide named crotamine. Interestingly not all Crotalus snakes express crotamine, which was first described in early 50s due to its ability to immobilize animal hind limbs, contributing therefore to the physical immobilization of preys and representing an important advantage for the envenoming efficacy, and consequently, for the feeding and survival of these snakes in nature. Representing about 10–25% of the dry weight of the crude venom of crotamine-positive rattlesnakes, the polypeptide crotamine is also suggested to be of importance for antivenom therapy, although the contribution of this toxin to the main symptoms of envenoming process remains far unknown until now. Herein, we concomitantly performed in vitro and in vivo assays to show for the first time the dose-dependent response of crotamine-triggered hind limbs paralysis syndrome, up to now believed to be observable only at high (sub-lethal) concentrations of crotamine. In addition, ex vivo assay performed with isolated skeletal muscles allowed us to suggest here that compounds active on voltage-sensitive sodium and/or potassium ion channels could both affect the positive inotropic effect elicited by crotamine in isolated diaphragm, besides also affecting the hind limbs paralysis syndrome imposed by crotamine in vivo. By identifying the potential molecular targets of this toxin, our data may contribute to open new roads for translational studies aiming to improve the snakebite envenoming treatment in human. Interestingly, we also demonstrate that the intraplantal or intraperitoneal (ip) injections of crotamine in mice do not promote pain. Therefore, this work may also suggest the profitable utility of non-toxic analogs of crotamine as a potential tool for targeting voltage-gated ion channels in skeletal muscles, aiming its potential use in the therapy of neuromuscular dysfunctions and envenoming therapy. Representing more than 10% of the dry weight of the crude venom of crotamine-positive rattlesnakes, crotamine may act as toxin mainly by imposing the physical immobilization of preys. Its presence was described to be important for antivenom therapy, although the knowledge on the effective contribution of crotamine to the main symptoms of envenoming process remains elusive and limited. Herein, we show for the first time the dose-dependent response for the hind limbs paralysis syndrome promoted by crotamine. We also report herein that compounds active on voltage-sensitive sodium and/or potassium ion channels can affect the positive inotropic effect elicited by crotamine in vitro in isolated diaphragm and also in the hind limbs paralysis syndrome triggered by crotamine in vivo. This potential targeting of voltage-sensitive sodium and/or potassium ion channels suggested here for crotamine may contribute to open new roads for translational studies aiming to improve the snakebite envenoming treatment in human. More importantly, nociceptive threshold evaluation demonstrated that crotamine does not trigger pain, and therefore, we also suggest crotamine as a potential tool for targeting voltage-gated ion channels present in skeletal muscles, with potential to be used as a lead compound to develop drugs for neuromuscular dysfunctions therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunamita de Carvalho Lima
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas de Carvalho Porta
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Álvaro da Costa Lima
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Joana D'Arc Campeiro
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ywlliane Meurer
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN), Natal, Brazil
| | | | - Thiago Duarte
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Brandt Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade de São Paulo (USP-RP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Gisele Picolo
- Laboratório Especial de Dor e Sinalização, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosely Oliveira Godinho
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Regina Helena Silva
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mirian Akemi Furuie Hayashi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
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Beta-defensin genes of the Colubridae snakes Phalotris mertensi , Thamnodynastes hypoconia , and T. strigatus. Toxicon 2018; 146:124-128. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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Marinovic MP, Campeiro JD, Lima SC, Rocha AL, Nering MB, Oliveira EB, Mori MA, Hayashi MAF. Crotamine induces browning of adipose tissue and increases energy expenditure in mice. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5057. [PMID: 29567992 PMCID: PMC5864908 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-22988-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Crotamine, originally isolated from rattlesnake venom, has been extensively studied due to its pleiotropic biological properties, and special attention has been paid to its antitumor activity. However, long-term treatment with crotamine was accompanied by a reduction in animal body weight gain and by increases in glucose tolerance. As cancer is commonly associated with cachexia, to preclude the possible cancer cachexia-like effect of crotamine, herein this polypeptide was administered in healthy wild-type C57/BL6 mice by the oral route daily, for 21 days. Reduced body weight gain, in addition to decreased white adipose tissue (WAT) and increased brown adipose tissue (BAT) mass were observed in healthy animals in the absence of tumor. In addition, we observed improved glucose tolerance and increased insulin sensitivity, accompanied by a reduction of plasma lipid levels and decreased levels of biomarkers of liver damage and kidney disfunctions. Importantly, long-term treatment with crotamine increased the basal metabolic rate in vivo, which was consistent with the increased expression of thermogenic markers in BAT and WAT. Interestingly, cultured brown adipocyte cells induced to differentiation in the presence of crotamine also showed increases in some of these markers and in lipid droplets number and size, indicating increased brown adipocyte maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo P Marinovic
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Joana D Campeiro
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sunamita C Lima
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Andrea L Rocha
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP/EPM), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcela B Nering
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo B Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade de São Paulo (USP-RP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Marcelo A Mori
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP/EPM), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Departamento de Bioquímica e Biologia Tecidual, Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Mirian A F Hayashi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Batista da Cunha D, Pupo Silvestrini AV, Gomes da Silva AC, Maria de Paula Estevam D, Pollettini FL, de Oliveira Navarro J, Alves AA, Remédio Zeni Beretta AL, Annichino Bizzacchi JM, Pereira LC, Mazzi MV. Mechanistic insights into functional characteristics of native crotamine. Toxicon 2018; 146:1-12. [PMID: 29574214 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The chemical composition of snake venoms is a complex mixture of proteins and peptides that can be pharmacologically active. Crotamine, a cell-penetrating peptide, has been described to have antimicrobial properties and it exerts its effects by interacting selectively with different structures, inducing changes in the ion flow pattern and cellular responses. However, its real therapeutic potential is not yet fully known. Bearing in mind that crotamine is a promising molecule in therapeutics, this study investigated the action of purified molecule in three aspects: I) antibacterial action on different species of clinical interest, II) the effect of two different concentrations of the molecule on platelet aggregation, and III) its effects on isolated mitochondria. Crotamine was purified to homogeneity in a single step procedure using Heparin Sepharose. The molecular mass of the purified enzyme was 4881.4 Da, as determined by mass spectrometry. To assess antibacterial action, changes in the parameters of bacterial oxidative stress were determined. The peptide showed antibacterial activity on Escherichia coli (MIC: 2.0 μg/μL), Staphylococcus aureus (MIC: 8-16 μg/μL) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MIC: 4.0-8.0 μg/μL), inducing bacterial death by lipid peroxidation and oxidation of target proteins, determined by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and sulfhydryl groups, respectively. Crotamine induced increased platelet aggregation (IPA) at the two concentrations analyzed (0.1 and 1.4 μg/μL) compared to ADP-induced aggregation of PRP. Mitochondrial respiratory parameters and organelle structure assays were used to elucidate the action of the compound in this organelle. The exposure of mitochondria to crotamine caused a decrease in oxidative phosphorylation and changes in mitochondrial permeability, without causing damage in the mitochondrial redox state. Together, these results support the hypothesis that, besides the antimicrobial potential, crotamine acts on different molecular targets, inducing platelet aggregation and mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Batista da Cunha
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, UNIARARAS, 7 Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339, Araras, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Vitória Pupo Silvestrini
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, UNIARARAS, 7 Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339, Araras, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Gomes da Silva
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, UNIARARAS, 7 Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339, Araras, SP, Brazil
| | - Deborah Maria de Paula Estevam
- Graduate Program in Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, State University Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho-UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Flávia Lino Pollettini
- Graduate Program in Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, State University Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho-UNESP, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana de Oliveira Navarro
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, UNIARARAS, 7 Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339, Araras, SP, Brazil
| | - Armindo Antônio Alves
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, UNIARARAS, 7 Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339, Araras, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Laura Remédio Zeni Beretta
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, UNIARARAS, 7 Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339, Araras, SP, Brazil
| | - Joyce M Annichino Bizzacchi
- Blood Hemostasis Laboratory, Faculty of Medical Sciences, State University of Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Lilian Cristina Pereira
- Department of Bioprocesses and Biotechnology, Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, State University Paulista Júlio Mesquita Filho-UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Maurício Ventura Mazzi
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences Hermínio Ometto University Center, UNIARARAS, 7 Av. Dr. Maximiliano Baruto, 500, CEP 13607-339, Araras, SP, Brazil.
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Moga MA, Dimienescu OG, Arvătescu CA, Ifteni P, Pleş L. Anticancer Activity of Toxins from Bee and Snake Venom-An Overview on Ovarian Cancer. Molecules 2018; 23:E692. [PMID: 29562696 PMCID: PMC6017821 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23030692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer represents the disease of the millennium, a major problem in public health. The proliferation of tumor cells, angiogenesis, and the relationship between the cancer cells and the components of the extracellular matrix are important in the events of carcinogenesis, and these pathways are being used as targets for new anticancer treatments. Various venoms and their toxins have shown possible anticancer effects on human cancer cell lines, providing new perspectives in drug development. In this review, we observed the effects of natural toxins from bee and snake venom and the mechanisms through which they can inhibit the growth and proliferation of cancer cells. We also researched how several types of natural molecules from venom can sensitize ovarian cancer cells to conventional chemotherapy, with many toxins being helpful for developing new anticancer drugs. This approach could improve the efficiency of standard therapies and could allow the administration of decreased doses of chemotherapy. Natural toxins from bee and snake venom could become potential candidates for the future treatment of different types of cancer. It is important to continue these studies concerning therapeutic drugs from natural resource and, more importantly, to investigate their mechanism of action on cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Alexandru Moga
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, Brasov 500019, Romania.
| | - Oana Gabriela Dimienescu
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, Brasov 500019, Romania.
| | - Cristian Andrei Arvătescu
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, Brasov 500019, Romania.
| | - Petru Ifteni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, Brasov 500019, Romania.
| | - Liana Pleş
- Clinical Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest 020021, Romania.
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Campeiro JD, Marinovic MP, Carapeto FC, Dal Mas C, Monte GG, Carvalho Porta L, Nering MB, Oliveira EB, Hayashi MAF. Oral treatment with a rattlesnake native polypeptide crotamine efficiently inhibits the tumor growth with no potential toxicity for the host animal and with suggestive positive effects on animal metabolic profile. Amino Acids 2017; 50:267-278. [DOI: 10.1007/s00726-017-2513-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Dal Mas C, Pinheiro D, Campeiro J, Mattei B, Oliveira V, Oliveira E, Miranda A, Perez K, Hayashi M. Biophysical and biological properties of small linear peptides derived from crotamine, a cationic antimicrobial/antitumoral toxin with cell penetrating and cargo delivery abilities. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-BIOMEMBRANES 2017; 1859:2340-2349. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamem.2017.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan M. Akef
- National Organization for Research and Control of Biologicals (NORCB), Giza, Egypt
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Chan JYW, Zhou H, Kwan YW, Chan SW, Radis-Baptista G, Lee SMY. Evaluation in zebrafish model of the toxicity of rhodamine B-conjugated crotamine, a peptide potentially useful for diagnostics and therapeutics. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2017; 31. [PMID: 28815806 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.21964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Crotamine is defensin-like cationic peptide from rattlesnake venom that possesses anticancer, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. Despite these promising biological activities, toxicity is a major concern associated with the development of venom-derived peptides as therapeutic agents. In the present study, we used zebrafish as a system model to evaluate the toxicity of rhodamine B-conjugated (RhoB) crotamine derivative. The lethal toxic concentration of RhoB-crotamine was as low as 4 μM, which effectively kill zebrafish larvae in less than 10 min. With non-lethal concentrations (<1 μM), crotamine caused malformation in zebrafish embryos, delayed or completely halted hatching, adversely affected embryonic developmental programming, decreased the cardiac functions, and attenuated the swimming distance of zebrafish. The RhoB-crotamine translocated across vitelline membrane and accumulated in zebrafish yolk sac. These results demonstrate the sensitive responsivity of zebrafish to trial crotamine analogues for the development of novel therapeutic peptides with improved safety, bioavailability, and efficacy profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judy Yuet-Wa Chan
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Hefeng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Yiu Wa Kwan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shun Wan Chan
- State Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine and Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gandhi Radis-Baptista
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Institute for Marine Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Simon Ming-Yuen Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
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Toxin Fused with SUMO Tag: A New Expression Vector Strategy to Obtain Recombinant Venom Toxins with Easy Tag Removal inside the Bacteria. Toxins (Basel) 2017; 9:toxins9030082. [PMID: 28264436 PMCID: PMC5371837 DOI: 10.3390/toxins9030082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Many animal toxins may target the same molecules that need to be controlled in certain pathologies; therefore, some toxins have led to the formulation of drugs that are presently used, and many other drugs are still under development. Nevertheless, collecting sufficient toxins from the original source might be a limiting factor in studying their biological activities. Thus, molecular biology techniques have been applied in order to obtain large amounts of recombinant toxins into Escherichia coli. However, most animal toxins are difficult to express in this system, which results in insoluble, misfolded, or unstable proteins. To solve these issues, toxins have been fused with tags that may improve protein expression, solubility, and stability. Among these tags, the SUMO (small ubiquitin-related modifier) has been shown to be very efficient and can be removed by the Ulp1 protease. However, removing SUMO is a labor- and time-consuming process. To enhance this system, here we show the construction of a bicistronic vector that allows the expression of any protein fused to both the SUMO and Ulp1 protease. In this way, after expression, Ulp1 is able to cleave SUMO and leave the protein interest-free and ready for purification. This strategy was validated through the expression of a new phospholipase D from the spider Loxosceles gaucho and a disintegrin from the Bothrops insularis snake. Both recombinant toxins showed good yield and preserved biological activities, indicating that the bicistronic vector may be a viable method to produce proteins that are difficult to express.
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Abstract
In recent years, the increase of invasive fungal infections and the emergence of antifungal resistance stressed the need for new antifungal drugs. Peptides have shown to be good candidates for the development of alternative antimicrobial agents through high-throughput screening, and subsequent optimization according to a rational approach. This review presents a brief overview on antifungal natural peptides of different sources (animals, plants, micro-organisms), peptide fragments derived by proteolytic cleavage of precursor physiological proteins (cryptides), synthetic unnatural peptides and peptide derivatives. Antifungal peptides are schematically reported based on their structure, antifungal spectrum and reported effects. Natural or synthetic peptides and their modified derivatives may represent the basis for new compounds active against fungal infections.
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Chan YS, Cheung RCF, Xia L, Wong JH, Ng TB, Chan WY. Snake venom toxins: toxicity and medicinal applications. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2016; 100:6165-6181. [PMID: 27245678 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-016-7610-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Revised: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Snake venoms are complex mixtures of small molecules and peptides/proteins, and most of them display certain kinds of bioactivities. They include neurotoxic, cytotoxic, cardiotoxic, myotoxic, and many different enzymatic activities. Snake envenomation is a significant health issue as millions of snakebites are reported annually. A large number of people are injured and die due to snake venom poisoning. However, several fatal snake venom toxins have found potential uses as diagnostic tools, therapeutic agent, or drug leads. In this review, different non-enzymatically active snake venom toxins which have potential therapeutic properties such as antitumor, antimicrobial, anticoagulating, and analgesic activities will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yau Sang Chan
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease for Allergy, School of Medicine, Shenzhen University, Nanhai Ave 3688, 518060, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Randy Chi Fai Cheung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Lixin Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease for Allergy, School of Medicine, Shenzhen University, Nanhai Ave 3688, 518060, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China.
| | - Jack Ho Wong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Tzi Bun Ng
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Wai Yee Chan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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48
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Anthelmintic effects of a cationic toxin from a South American rattlesnake venom. Toxicon 2016; 116:49-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2015.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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49
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El Chamy Maluf S, Dal Mas C, Oliveira EB, Melo PM, Carmona AK, Gazarini ML, Hayashi MAF. Inhibition of malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum development by crotamine, a cell penetrating peptide from the snake venom. Peptides 2016; 78:11-6. [PMID: 26806200 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2016.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Revised: 01/15/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
We show here that crotamine, a polypeptide from the South American rattlesnake venom with cell penetrating and selective anti-fungal and anti-tumoral properties, presents a potent anti-plasmodial activity in culture. Crotamine inhibits the development of the Plasmodium falciparum parasites in a dose-dependent manner [IC50 value of 1.87 μM], and confocal microscopy analysis showed a selective internalization of fluorescent-labeled crotamine into P. falciparum infected erythrocytes, with no detectable fluorescence in uninfected healthy erythrocytes. In addition, similarly to the crotamine cytotoxic effects, the mechanism underlying the anti-plasmodial activity may involve the disruption of parasite acidic compartments H(+) homeostasis. In fact, crotamine promoted a reduction of parasites organelle fluorescence loaded with the lysosomotropic fluorochrome acridine orange, in the same way as previously observed mammalian tumoral cells. Taken together, we show for the first time crotamine not only compromised the metabolism of the P. falciparum, but this toxin also inhibited the parasite growth. Therefore, we suggest this snake polypeptide as a promising lead molecule for the development of potential new molecules, namely peptidomimetics, with selectivity for infected erythrocytes and ability to inhibit the malaria infection by its natural affinity for acid vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- S El Chamy Maluf
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C Dal Mas
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - E B Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade de São Paulo (USP-RP), Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - P M Melo
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - A K Carmona
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M L Gazarini
- Departamento de Biociências, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Santos, SP, Brazil.
| | - M A F Hayashi
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil.
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50
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A brief update on potential molecular mechanisms underlying antimicrobial and wound-healing potency of snake venom molecules. Biochem Pharmacol 2016; 115:1-9. [PMID: 26975619 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2016.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Infectious diseases remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A wide range of diverse, novel classes of natural antibiotics have been isolated from different snake species in the recent past. Snake venoms contain diverse groups of proteins with potent antibacterial activity against a wide range of human pathogens. Some snake venom molecules are pharmacologically attractive, as they possess promising broad-spectrum antibacterial activities. Furthermore, snake venom proteins (SVPs)/peptides also bind to integrins with high affinity, thereby inhibiting cell adhesion and accelerating wound healing in animal models. Thus, SVPs are a potential alternative to chemical antibiotics. The mode of action for many antibacterial peptides involves pore formation and disruption of the plasma membrane. This activity often includes modulation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation during skin wound healing. The NF-κB pathway negatively regulates the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1/Smad pathway by inducing the expression of Smad7 and eventually reducing in vivo collagen production at the wound sites. In this context, SVPs that regulate the NF-κB signaling pathway may serve as potential targets for drug development.
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