A new acidic myotoxic, anti-platelet and prostaglandin I2 inductor phospholipase A2 isolated from Bothrops moojeni snake venom

Characterization of a novel acidic phospholipase A2 isolated from the venom of Bothrops mattogrossensis: From purification to structural modeling

Phospholipases A2 (PLA2s) are highly prevalent in Bothrops snake venom and play a crucial role in inflammatory responses and immune cell activation during envenomation. Despite their significance, the specific role of PLA2s from Bothrops mattogrossensis venom (BmV) in inflammation is not fully understood. This study sought to isolate and characterize a novel acidic PLA2 from BmV, designated BmPLA2-A, and to evaluate its effects on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), with a specific focus on cytotoxicity, adhesion, and detachment. BmPLA2-A was isolated through a multi-step chromatographic procedure, involving cation exchange (CM-Sepharose), hydrophobic interaction (n-butyl-Sepharose-HP), and reversed-phase (C-18) chromatography. SDS-PAGE analysis revealed a single protein band of approximately 15 kDa. The primary structure of BmPLA2-A was determined by LC-MS/MS, while its tertiary structure was modeled using AlphaFold. Enzymatic activity was verified with the synthetic substrate 4N3OBA. Molecular dynamics simulations were conducted to further investigate the catalytic mechanism of BmPLA2-A at the molecular level. In vitro assays on HUVECs revealed that BmPLA2-A neither induce cytokine release (IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, TNF) nor affected cell viability, adhesion, or detachment. The characteristics of BmPLA2-A are consistent with those of acidic Asp-49 PLA2 enzymes, highlighting its potential involvement in the cytotoxic and inflammatory effects of the venom.

MjTX-II, a Lys49-PLA2 from Bothrops moojeni snake venom, restricts Toxoplasma gondii infection via ROS and VEGF regulation

Owing to the lack of efficient therapy and emerging resistance strains, toxoplasmosis affects about one-third of the world's population. Also, pregnancy-related infection can cause vertical transmission and result in fetal death. Despite the global efforts to combat Toxoplasma gondii infection, conventional therapies have been associated with serious side effects. Therefore, it is relevant to search for effective and less-toxic treatments of toxoplasmosis. In this scenario, snake venoms emerged as a promising source of therapeutic molecules due to their wide variety of biological effects. The present study investigated the anti-T. gondii effects of MjTX-II, a Lys49-PLA2 isolated from Bothrops moojeni, in trophoblast cells and villous explants from the third trimester of pregnancy. We found that non-cytotoxic doses of MjTX-II impaired parasite invasion and intracellular growth in BeWo cells. Also, MjTX-II-pre-treated T. gondii tachyzoites exhibited irregular rough surfaces, papules, and dimples, suggesting a possible action directly on the parasites. Moreover, MjTX-II was able to modulate the host environment by increasing ROS and cytokine levels involved in the control of infection. In addition, we observed that MjTX-II decreased VEGF levels and the addition of rVEGF increased T. gondii growth in BeWo cells. Through molecular docking simulations, we verified that MjTX-II is able to bind VEGFR2 and ICAM-1 receptors associated with parasite proliferation and dissemination. This work contributes to the discovery of therapeutic targets against T. gondii infection and for the development of effective and low-toxic antiparasitic molecules against congenital toxoplasmosis.

Hyperglycosylation impairs the inhibitory activity of rCdtPLI2, the first recombinant beta-phospholipase A2 inhibitor

Crotoxin, a phospholipase A2 (PLA2) complex and the major Crotalus venom component, is responsible for the main symptoms described in crotalic snakebite envenomings and a key target for PLA2 inhibitors (PLIs). PLIs comprise the alpha, beta and gamma families, and, due to a lack of reports on beta-PLIs, this study aimed to heterologously express CdtPLI2 from Crotalus durissus terrificus venom gland to improve the knowledge of the neglected beta-PLI family. Thereby, recombinant CdtPLI2 (rCdtPLI2) was produced in the eukaryotic Pichia pastoris system to keep some native post-translational modifications. rCdtPLI2 (~41 kDa) presents both N- and O-linked glycans. Alpha-mannosidase digested-rCdtPLI2 (1 mol) strongly inhibited (73%) CB-Cdc catalytic activity (5 moles), demonstrating that glycosylations performed by P. pastoris affect rCdtPLI2 action. Digested-rCdtPLI2 also inhibited PLA2s from diverse Brazilian snake venoms. Furthermore, rCdtPLI2 (1 mol) abolished the catalytic activity of Lmr-PLA2 (5 moles) and reduced the CTx-Cdc (5 moles) enzyme activity by 65%, suppressing basic and acidic snake venom PLA2s. Additionally, crotalic antivenom did not recognize rCdtPLI2, suggesting a lack of neutralization by antivenom antibodies. These findings demonstrate that studying snake venom components may reveal interesting novel molecules to be studied in the snakebite treatment and help to understand these underexplored inhibitors.

Crosstalk of Inflammation and Coagulation in Bothrops Snakebite Envenoming: Endogenous Signaling Pathways and Pathophysiology

Snakebite envenoming represents a major health problem in tropical and subtropical countries. Considering the elevated number of accidents and high morbidity and mortality rates, the World Health Organization reclassified this disease to category A of neglected diseases. In Latin America, Bothrops genus snakes are mainly responsible for snakebites in humans, whose pathophysiology is characterized by local and systemic inflammatory and degradative processes, triggering prothrombotic and hemorrhagic events, which lead to various complications, organ damage, tissue loss, amputations, and death. The activation of the multicellular blood system, hemostatic alterations, and activation of the inflammatory response are all well-documented in Bothrops envenomings. However, the interface between inflammation and coagulation is still a neglected issue in the toxinology field. Thromboinflammatory pathways can play a significant role in some of the major complications of snakebite envenoming, such as stroke, venous thromboembolism, and acute kidney injury. In addition to exacerbating inflammation and cell interactions that trigger vaso-occlusion, ischemia-reperfusion processes, and, eventually, organic damage and necrosis. In this review, we discuss the role of inflammatory pathways in modulating coagulation and inducing platelet and leukocyte activation, as well as the inflammatory production mediators and induction of innate immune responses, among other mechanisms that are altered by Bothrops venoms.

Effects of Conjugation of Ferrocene and Gallic Acid On desCys11/Lys12/Lys13-(p-BthTX-I)2K Peptide: Structure, Permeabilization and Antibacterial Activity

BACKGROUND

Antimicrobial resistance is an emerging global health challenge that has led researchers to study alternatives to conventional antibiotics. A promising alternative is antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), produced as the first line of defense by almost all living organisms. To improve its biological activity, the conjugation of AMPs is a promising approach.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we evaluated the N-terminal conjugation of p-Bt (a peptide derived from Bothrops Jararacuçu`s venom) with ferrocene (Fc) and gallic acid (GA). Acetylated and linear versions of p-Bt were also synthesized to evaluate the importance of N-terminal charge and dimeric structure.

METHODS

The compounds were obtained using solid-phase peptide synthesis. Circular dichroism, vesicle permeabilization, antimicrobial activity, and cytotoxicity studies were conducted.

RESULTS

No increase in antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli was observed by adding either Fc or GA to p-Bt. However, Fc-p-Bt and GA-p-Bt exhibited improved activity against Staphylococcus aureus. No cytotoxicity upon fibroblast was observed for GA-p-Bt. On the other hand, conjugation with Fc increased cytotoxicity. This toxicity may be related to the membrane permeabilization capacity of this bioconjugate, which showed the highest carboxyfluorescein leakage in vesicle permeabilization experiments.

CONCLUSION

Considering these observations, our findings highlight the importance of adding bioactive organic compounds in the N-terminal position as a tool to modulate the activity of AMPs.

Bleeding and Thrombosis: Insights into Pathophysiology of Bothrops Venom-Related Hemostasis Disorders

Toxins from Bothrops venoms targeting hemostasis are responsible for a broad range of clinical and biological syndromes including local and systemic bleeding, incoagulability, thrombotic microangiopathy and macrothrombosis. Beyond hemostais disorders, toxins are also involved in the pathogenesis of edema and in most complications such as hypovolemia, cardiovascular collapse, acute kidney injury, myonecrosis, compartmental syndrome and superinfection. These toxins can be classified as enzymatic proteins (snake venom metalloproteinases, snake venom serine proteases, phospholipases A₂ and L-amino acid oxidases) and non-enzymatic proteins (desintegrins and C-type lectin proteins). Bleeding is due to a multifocal toxicity targeting vessels, platelets and coagulation factors. Vessel damage due to the degradation of basement membrane and the subsequent disruption of endothelial cell integrity under hydrostatic pressure and tangential shear stress is primarily responsible for bleeding. Hemorrhage is promoted by thrombocytopenia, platelet hypoaggregation, consumption coagulopathy and fibrin(ogen)olysis. Onset of thrombotic microangiopathy is probably due to the switch of endothelium to a prothrombotic phenotype with overexpression of tissue factor and other pro-aggregating biomarkers in association with activation of platelets and coagulation. Thrombosis involving large-caliber vessels in B. lanceolatus envenomation remains a unique entity, which exact pathophysiology remains poorly understood.

Synergism of in vitro plasmodicidal activity of phospholipase A2 isoforms isolated from panamanian Bothrops asper venom

Bothrops asper is one of the most important snake species in Central America, mainly because of its medical importance in countries like Ecuador, Panama and Costa Rica, where this species causes a high number of snakebite accidents. Several basic phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s) have been previously characterized from B. asper venom, but few studies have been carried out with its acidic isoforms. In addition, since snake venom is a rich source of bioactive substances, it is necessary to investigate the biotechnological potential of its components. In this context, this study aimed to carry out the biochemical characterization of PLA₂ isoforms isolated from B. asper venom and to evaluate the antiparasitic potential of these toxins. The venom and key fractions were subjected to different chromatographic steps, obtaining nine PLA₂s, four acidic ones (BaspAc-I, BaspAc-II, BaspAc-III and BaspAc-IV) and five basic ones (BaspB-I, BaspB-II, BaspB-III, BaspB-IV and BaspB-V). The isoelectric points of the acidic PLA₂s were also determined, which presented values ranging between 4.5 and 5. The findings indicated the isolation of five unpublished isoforms, four Asp49-PLA, corresponding to the group of acidic isoforms, and one Lys49-PLA₂-like. Acidic PLA₂s catalyzed the degradation of all substrates evaluated; however, for the basic PLA₂s, there was a preference for phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidic acid. The antiparasitic potential of the toxins was evaluated, and the acidic PLA₂s demonstrated action against the epimastigote forms of T. cruzi and promastigote forms of L. infantum, while the basic PLA₂s BaspB-II and BaspB-IV showed activity against P. falciparum. The results indicated an increase of up to 10 times in antiplasmodial activity, when the Asp49-PLA₂ and Lys49-PLA₂ were associated with one another, denoting synergistic action between these PLA₂ isoforms. These findings correspond to the first report of synergistic antiplasmodial action for svPLA₂s, demonstrating that these molecules may be important targets in the search for new antiparasitic agents.

Understanding the mechanism of action of peptide (p-BthTX-I)2 derived from C-terminal region of phospholipase A2 (PLA2)-like bothropstoxin-I on Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria

Based on the antimicrobial activity of bothropstoxin-I (BthTX-I) and on the premise that a C-terminal peptide of Lys49 myotoxin can reproduce the antimicrobial activity of the parent protein, we aimed to study the mechanism of action of a peptide derived from the C-terminal region of the myotoxin BthTX-I [(p-BthTX-I)₂, sequence: KKYRYHLKPFCKK, disulfide-linked dimer] against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Fluorescence quenching technique showed that the carboxyfluorescein labeled-peptide [CF-(p-BthTX-I)₂] when incubated with E. coli displayed a superior penetration activity than when incubated with S. aureus. Cell death induced by the peptide (p-BthTX-I)₂ showed a loss of membrane integrity in E. coli and S. aureus; however, the mechanisms of cell death were different, characterized by the presence of necrosis-like and apoptosis-like deaths, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy studies in E. coli and S. aureus showed morphological changes in the cells, with superficial deformities, appearance of wrinkles and bubbles, and formation of vesicles. Our results demonstrate that the mechanism of action of the peptide (p-BthTX-I)₂ is different in Gram-negative (E. coli) and Gram-positive (S. aureus) bacteria. Knowledge of the mechanism of action of these peptides is important, since they are promising prototypes for new antimicrobial drugs.

Cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic action of MjTX-I, a phospholipase A2 isolated from Bothrops moojeni snake venom, towards leukemic cells

Background

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a BCR-ABL1⁺ myeloproliferative neoplasm marked by increased myeloproliferation and presence of leukemic cells resistant to apoptosis. The current first-line therapy for CML is administration of the tyrosine kinase inhibitors imatinib mesylate, dasatinib or nilotinib. Although effective to treat CML, some patients have become resistant to this therapy, leading to disease progression and death. Thus, the discovery of new compounds to improve CML therapy is still challenging. Here we addressed whether MjTX-I, a phospholipase A₂ isolated from Bothrops moojeni snake venom, affects the viability of imatinib mesylate-resistant Bcr-Abl⁺ cell lines.

Methods

We examined the cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effect of MjTX-I in K562-S and K562-R Bcr-Abl⁺ cells and in the non-tumor HEK-293 cell line and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide and the hypotonic fluorescent solution methods, associated with detection of caspases 3, 8, and 9 activation and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) cleavage. We also analyzed the MjTX-I potential to modulate the expression of apoptosis-related genes in K562-S and K562-R cells.

Results

MjTX-I decreased the viability of K562-S and K562-R cells by 60 to 65%, without affecting the viability of the non-tumor cells, i.e. it exerted selective cytotoxicity towards Bcr-Abl⁺ cell lines. In leukemic cell lines, the toxin induced apoptosis, activated caspases 3, 8, and 9, cleaved PARP, downregulated expression of the anti-apoptotic gene BCL-2, and upregulated expression of the pro-apoptotic gene BAD.

Conclusion

The antitumor effect of MjTX-I is associated with its potential to induce apoptosis and cytotoxicity in Bcr-Abl positive cell lines sensitive and resistant to imatinib mesylate, indicating that MjTX-I is a promising candidate drug to upgrade the CML therapy.

Cytotoxic and inflammatory potential of a phospholipase A2 from Bothrops jararaca snake venom

Background

Snake venom phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s) have been reported to induce myotoxic, neurotoxic, hemolytic, edematogenic, cytotoxic and proinflammatory effects. This work aimed at the isolation and functional characterization of a PLA₂ isolated from Bothrops jararaca venom, named BJ-PLA₂-I.

Methods and Results

For its purification, three consecutive chromatographic steps were used (Sephacryl S-200, Source 15Q and Mono Q 5/50 GL). BJ-PLA₂-I showed acidic characteristics, with pI~ 4.4 and molecular mass of 14.2 kDa. Sequencing resulted in 60 amino acid residues that showed high similarity to other Bothrops PLA₂s, including 100% identity with BJ-PLA₂, an Asp49 PLA₂ previously isolated from B. jararaca venom. Being an Asp49 PLA₂, BJ-PLA₂-I showed high catalytic activity, and also inhibitory effects on the ADP-induced platelet aggregation. Its inflammatory characterization showed that BJ-PLA₂-I was able to promote leukocyte migration in mice at different concentrations (5, 10 and 20 μg/mL) and also at different response periods (2, 4 and 24 h), mainly by stimulating neutrophil infiltration. Furthermore, increased levels of total proteins, IL-6, IL-1β and PGE₂ were observed in the inflammatory exudate induced by BJ-PLA₂-I, while nitric oxide, TNF-α, IL-10 and LTB₄ levels were not significantly altered. This toxin was also evaluated for its cytotoxic potential on normal (PBMC) and tumor cell lines (HL-60 and HepG2). Overall, BJ-PLA₂-I (2.5–160 μg/mL) promoted low cytotoxicity, with cell viabilities mostly varying between 70 and 80% and significant values obtained for HL-60 and PBMC only at the highest concentrations of the toxin evaluated.

Conclusions

BJ-PLA₂-I was characterized as an acidic Asp49 PLA₂ that induces acute local inflammation and low cytotoxicity. These results should contribute to elucidate the action mechanisms of snake venom PLA₂s.

Systemic alterations induced by phospholipase A2 , BmooTX-I, isolated from Bothrops moojeni snake venom

Ophidic accidents are among the problems of public health in Brazil. The components from bothropic venom are responsible for many systemic clinical complications resulting from envenomation. The present work aimed to analyse the systemic changes induced in mice after intraperitoneal administration of BmooTX-I, a myotoxic acidic phospholipase A₂ isolated from Bothrops moojeni venom. Urinalysis was performed and the following plasma biochemical markers were documented: urea, creatinine and uric acid (renal function); glucose and amylase (pancreatic function); alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and gamma-GT (intra- and extrahepatic function); creatine kinase and enzymatic lactate (muscle function). Our results showed that after the intraperitoneal injection of BmooTX-I the urine of these animals showed glycosuria, proteinuria, haematuria, bacteriuria, bilirubinuria, polyuria and nitrite. The plasma biochemical analysis showed alterations in levels of urea, creatinine and uric acid. Amylase concentration was not altered significantly, but the plasma glucose increased significantly compared to controls. The plasma levels of alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase decreased and increased, respectively, in these same animals. On the other hand, the plasma γGT concentration did not undergo significant modification compared to the control group. The plasma concentration of CK increased, while the enzymatic lactate concentration decreased after the injection of the BmooTX-I. Therefore, in mice BmooTX-I is capable of causing systemic alterations which manifest as renal, muscular, hepatic and pancreatic impairment.

In vitro tracking of phospholipase A2 from snake venom conjugated with magic-sized quantum dots

Phospholipases A₂ represent a family of enzymes with important application in medicine. However, direct tracking is difficult due to the absence of a stable, effective and specific marker for these enzymes. Magic-sized quantum dots (MSQDs) are inorganic semiconducting nanocrystals with unique physical properties. They have the ability to conjugate to proteins, making them excellent markers for biological systems. In this work, we labelled phospholipase A₂ from Bothrops alternatus snake venom with Cadmium selenide (CdSe)/cadmium sulphate (CdS) MSQDs-a biocompatible and luminescent probe-. Bioconjugation was confirmed using infrared spectra and fluorescence microscopy, which demonstrated that the CdSe/CdS MSQDs interact with phospholipase A₂ without interfering with its activity. This probe may be an important tool for the elucidation of many biological mechanisms, because it allows the pathway of phospholipase A₂ to be tracked from its entry through the plasma membrane until its incorporation into the nucleus of myoblasts.

Tracing the evolution of venom phospholipases A2 in Gloydius strauchii and related pitvipers: A tale of two acidic isozymes

Two acidic Asp⁴⁹-PLA₂s with Glu⁶ substitution and a neutral Lys⁴⁹-PLA (designated Gst-K49) were cloned from G. strauchii venom glands, their full amino acid sequences were deduced. The predominant acidic PLA₂ (designated Gst-E6a) contains 124 residues and the M¹⁸W³⁰ substitutions, while the minor acidic PLA₂ (designated Gst-E6b) contains 122 residues and the V¹⁸A³⁰ substitutions. Their sequences are most similar to those of the respective orthologous PLA₂s of G. intermedius venom. Gst-E6a and Gst-E6b appear to be paralogs and possibly have different predatory targets or functions. The LC-MS/MS results indicate the presence of only three PLA₂ gene products in the crude venom, the relative expression levels were in the order of Gst-E6a ≫ Gst-E6b > Gst-K49, as confirmed by qPCR results. In contrast to other Gloydius, G. strauchii venom does not contain neurotoxic or basic anticoagulant Asp⁴⁹-PLA₂s, but Gst-K49 is the first Lys⁴⁹-PLA₂ identified in Gloydius venoms. However, its venom content is relatively low and its pI value 7.3 is much lower than those of other Lys⁴⁹-PLA₂s and. The Lys⁴⁹-PLA₂ genes appear to regress in the venom of most of Gloydius and related rattlesnake, and this evolutionary regression occurred before the dispersal of Asian pitvipers to the New World.

Isolation and Functional Characterization of an Acidic Myotoxic Phospholipase A₂ from Colombian Bothrops asper Venom

Myotoxic phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂) are responsible for many clinical manifestations in envenomation by Bothrops snakes. A new myotoxic acidic Asp49 PLA₂ (BaCol PLA₂) was isolated from Colombian Bothrops asper venom using reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). BaCol PLA₂ had a molecular mass of 14,180.69 Da (by mass spectrometry) and an isoelectric point of 4.4. The complete amino acid sequence was obtained by cDNA cloning (GenBank accession No. MF319968) and revealed a mature product of 124 amino acids with Asp at position 49. BaCol PLA₂ showed structural homology with other acidic PLA₂ isolated from Bothrops venoms, including a non-myotoxic PLA₂ from Costa Rican B. asper. In vitro studies showed cell membrane damage without exposure of phosphatidylserine, an early apoptosis hallmark. BaCol PLA₂ had high indirect hemolytic activity and moderate anticoagulant action. In mice, BaCol PLA₂ caused marked edema and myotoxicity, the latter seen as an increase in plasma creatine kinase and histological damage to gastrocnemius muscle fibers that included vacuolization and hyalinization necrosis of the sarcoplasm.

Investigation of the inhibitory potential of phospholipase A2 inhibitor gamma from Sinonatrix annularis to snake envenomation

SaPLIγ is a novel gamma phospholipase A₂ inhibitor (PLI) recently isolated from Sinonatrix annularis, a Chinese endemic non-venomous snake. To explore the neutralization effects of saPLIγ in snakebite envenomation, a dose equivalent to LD₅₀ of Deinagkistrodon acutus, Agkistrodon halys and Naja atra venom with/without saPLIγ was inoculated into the gastrocnemius muscle of female Kunming mice. The ability of saPLIγ to inhibit myonecrosis and systemic toxicity were evaluated through investigations of muscle histopathology, and determination of the serum levels of creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase isoenzyme1 (LDH1) and aspartate transferase (AST). Edema of the gastrocnemius muscle was evaluated by calculating the width difference between the inoculated limb and the contralateral leg. Desmin loss in the gastrocnemius muscle was determined by Western blot analysis. Co-immunoprecipitation and shotgun LC-MS/MS analyses were performed to identify venom proteins that interact with saPLIγ. All the envenomed mice had significantly elevated serum CK, LDH1 and AST levels, whereas the levels were decreased significantly in the presence of saPLIγ. Histopathological evaluation of gastrocnemius muscle sections showed severe snake venom-induced damage, characterized by leukocyte infiltration and erythrocyte leakage, leading to local edema. Myonecrosis, hemorrhage and desmin loss were significantly attenuated by saPLIγ. SaPLIγ interacted with a wide range of venom proteins, including PLA₂s, metalloproteinases and C type lectins, which may contribute to broad anti-venom effects.

The role of platelets in hemostasis and the effects of snake venom toxins on platelet function

The human body has a set of physiological processes, known as hemostasis, which keeps the blood fluid and free of clots in normal vessels; in the case of vascular injury, this process induces the local formation of a hemostatic plug, preventing hemorrhage. The hemostatic system in humans presents complex physiological interactions that involve platelets, plasma proteins, endothelial and subendothelial structures. Disequilibrium in the regulatory mechanisms that control the growth and the size of the thrombus is one of the factors that favors the development of diseases related to vascular disorders such as myocardial infarction and stroke, which are among the leading causes of death in the western world. Interfering with platelet function is a strategy for the treatment of thrombotic diseases. Antiplatelet drugs are used mainly in cases related to arterial thrombosis and interfere in the formation of the platelet plug by different mechanisms. Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) is the oldest and most widely used antithrombotic drug. Although highly effective in most cases, aspirin has limitations compared to other drugs used in the treatment of homeostatic disorders. For this reason, research related to molecules that interfere with platelet aggregation are of great relevance. In this regard, snake venoms are known to contain a number of molecules that interfere with hemostasis, including platelet function. The mechanisms by which snake venom components inhibit or activate platelet aggregation are varied and can be used as tools for the diagnosis and the treatment of several hemostatic disorders. The aim of this review is to present the role of platelets in hemostasis and the mechanisms by which snake venom toxins interfere with platelet function.

Alpha-type phospholipase A2 inhibitors from snake blood

It is of popular and scientific knowledge that toxins from snake venom (among them the PLA2 and myotoxins) are neutralized by various compounds, such as antibodies and proteins purified from animal blood. Venomous and nonvenomous snakes have PLA2 inhibitory proteins, called PLIs, in their blood serum. One hypothesis that could explain the presence of these PLIs in the serum of venomous snakes would be self-protection against the enzymes of their own venom, which eventually could reach the circulatory system. However, the presence of PLIs in non-venomous snakes suggests that their physiological role might not be restricted to protection against PLA2 toxins, but could be extended to other functions, as in the innate immune system and local regulation of PLA2s. The present study aimed to review the currently available literature on PLA2 and myotoxin alpha inhibitors present in snake plasma, thus helping to improve the research on these molecules. Furthermore, this review includes current information regarding the mechanism of action of these inhibitors in an attempt to better understand their application, and proposes the use of these molecules as new models in snakebite therapy. These molecules may help in the neutralization of different types of phospholipases A2 and myotoxins, complementing the conventional serum therapy.

rBaltMIP, a recombinant alpha-type myotoxin inhibitor from Bothrops alternatus (Rhinocerophis alternatus) snake, as a potential candidate to complement the antivenom therapy

Phospholipase A₂ inhibitors (PLIs) are important targets in the search and development of new drugs. This study aimed at evaluating the potential of an alpha-type phospholipase A₂ inhibitor from Bothrops alternatus (Rhinocerophis alternatus) snake in its recombinant form (rBaltMIP) to complement the conventional antivenom therapy. Biochemical experiments showed that rBaltMIP presented pI 5.8 and molecular masses of ∼21 kDa by SDS-PAGE and 19.57 kDa by MALDI/TOF MS. After tryptic peptides sequencing, the results were compared with other PLIs available in databases, showing 100% identity between rBaltMIP and its native inhibitor BaltMIP and from 92% to 96% identity with other inhibitors. Myotoxic activities of BthTX-I and BthTX-II toxins were measured via plasma CK levels, showing myotoxic effective concentrations (EC50) of 0.1256 μg/μL and 0.6183 μg/μL, respectively. rBaltMIP neutralized the myotoxicity caused by these two toxins up to 65%, without promoting primary antibody response against itself. Nevertheless, this recombinant PLI was immunogenic when standard immunization protocol with Freud's adjuvant was used. In paw edema assays, EC50 of 0.02581 μg/μL and 0.02810 μg/μL, respectively, were observed with edema reductions of up to 40% by rBaltMIP, suggesting its use as an additional antivenom. In addition, myotoxicity neutralization experiments with the myotoxin BthTX-I showed that rBaltMIP was more effective in inhibiting muscle damage than the conventional antivenom. Thus, considering the severity of envenomations due to Bothrops alternatus (Rhinocerophis alternatus) and the low neutralization of their local effects (such as myotoxicity) by the current antivenoms, rBaltMIP is a promising molecule for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for clinical applications.

Snake venom toxins: toxicity and medicinal applications

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.

Antitumor potential of the myotoxin BthTX-I from Bothrops jararacussu snake venom: evaluation of cell cycle alterations and death mechanisms induced in tumor cell lines

Background

Phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s) are abundant components of snake venoms that have been extensively studied due to their pharmacological and pathophysiological effects on living organisms. This study aimed to assess the antitumor potential of BthTX-I, a basic myotoxic PLA₂ isolated from Bothrops jararacussu venom, by evaluating in vitro processes of cytotoxicity, modulation of the cell cycle and induction of apoptosis in human (HL-60 and HepG2) and murine (PC-12 and B16F10) tumor cell lines.

Methods

The cytotoxic effects of BthTX-I were evaluated on the tumor cell lines HL-60 (promyelocytic leukemia), HepG2 (human hepatocellular carcinoma), PC-12 (murine pheochromocytoma) and B16F10 (murine melanoma) using the MTT method. Flow cytometry technique was used for the analysis of cell cycle alterations and death mechanisms (apoptosis and/or necrosis) induced in tumor cells after treatment with BthTX-I.

Results

It was observed that BthTX-I was cytotoxic to all evaluated tumor cell lines, reducing their viability in 40 to 50 %. The myotoxin showed modulating effects on the cell cycle of PC-12 and B16F10 cells, promoting delay in the G0/G1 phase. Additionally, flow cytometry analysis indicated cell death mainly by apoptosis. B16F10 was more susceptible to the effects of BthTX-I, with ~40 % of the cells analyzed in apoptosis, followed by HepG2 (~35 %), PC-12 (~25 %) and HL-60 (~4 %).

Conclusions

These results suggest that BthTX-I presents antitumor properties that may be useful for developing new therapeutic strategies against cancer.

Purification procedure for the isolation of a P-I metalloprotease and an acidic phospholipase A2 from Bothrops atrox snake venom

Background

Snake venoms are complex mixtures of inorganic and organic components, mainly proteins and peptides. Standardization of methods for isolating bioactive molecules from snake venoms is extremely difficult due to the complex and highly variable composition of venoms, which can be influenced by factors such as age and geographic location of the specimen. Therefore, this study aimed to standardize a simple purification methodology for obtaining a P-I class metalloprotease (MP) and an acidic phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) from Bothrops atrox venom, and biochemically characterize these molecules to enable future functional studies.

Methods

To obtain the toxins of interest, a method has been standardized using consecutive isolation steps. The purity level of the molecules was confirmed by RP-HPLC and SDS-PAGE. The enzymes were characterized by determining their molecular masses, isoelectric points, specific functional activity and partial amino acid sequencing.

Results

The metalloprotease presented molecular mass of 22.9 kDa and pI 7.4, with hemorrhagic and fibrin(ogen)olytic activities, and its partial amino acid sequence revealed high similarity with other P-I class metalloproteases. These results suggest that the isolated metalloprotease is Batroxase, a P-I metalloprotease previously described by our research group. The phospholipase A₂ showed molecular mass of 13.7 kDa and pI 6.5, with high phospholipase activity and similarity to other acidic PLA₂s from snake venoms. These data suggest that the acidic PLA₂ is a novel enzyme from B. atrox venom, being denominated BatroxPLA₂.

Conclusions

The present study successfully standardized a simple methodology to isolate the metalloprotease Batroxase and the acidic PLA₂ BatroxPLA₂ from the venom of B. atrox, consisting mainly of classical chromatographic processes. These two enzymes will be used in future studies to evaluate their effects on the complement system and the inflammatory process, in addition to the thrombolytic potential of the metalloprotease.

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

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

Synthesis and characterization of an antibacterial and non-toxic dimeric peptide derived from the C-terminal region of Bothropstoxin-I

Infectious diseases are among the leading global causes of death, increasing the search for novel antibacterial agents. Among these, biologically active peptides are an excellent research tool. Using solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), this work aimed to synthesize the peptide derived from the C-terminal region of Bothropstoxin-I (BthTX-I) (p-BthTX-I, sequence: KKYRYHLKPFCKK), and its disulfide-linked dimeric form, obtained via air oxidation (p-BthTX-I)2. Two other peptides were synthesized to evaluate the dimerization effect on antimicrobial activity. In both sequences, the cysteine (Cys) residue was replaced by the serine (Ser) residue, differing, however, in their C-terminus position. The antimicrobial activity of the peptides against gram-negative (Escherichia (E.) coli) and gram-positive (Staphylococcus (S.) aureus) bacteria and yeast (Candida (C.) albicans) was evaluated. Interestingly, only peptides containing the Cys residue showed antimicrobial activity, suggesting the importance of Cys residue and its dimerization for the observed activity. Apparently, p-BthTX-I and (p-BthTX-I)2 did not promote lysis or form pores and were not able to interact with membranes. Furthermore, they neither showed antifungal activity against C. albicans nor toxicity against erythrocytes, epithelial cells, or macrophages, indicating a potential specificity against prokaryotic cells.

In vitro and in vivo genotoxic evaluation of Bothrops moojeni snake venom

CONTEXT

Bothrops moojeni Hoge (Viperidae) venom is a complex mixture of compounds with therapeutic potential that has been included in the research and development of new drugs. Along with the biological activity, the pharmaceutical applicability of this venom depends on its toxicological profile.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of the Bothrops moojeni venom (BMV).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The in vitro cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of a pooled sample of BMV was assessed by the MTT and Comet assay, respectively. Genotoxicity was also evaluated in vivo through the micronucleus assay.

RESULTS

BMV displayed a 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) on Vero cells of 4.09 µg/mL. Vero cells treated with 4 µg/mL for 90 min and 6 h presented significant (p < 0.05, ANOVA/Newman-Keuls test) higher DNA damage than the negative control in the Comet assay. The lower DNA damage found after 6 h compared with the 90 min treatment suggests a DNA repair effect. Mice intraperitoneally treated with BMV at 10, 30, or 80 µg/animal presented significant genotoxicity (p < 0.05, ANOVA/Newman-Keuls test) in relation to the negative control after 24 h of treatment. Contrary to the in vitro results, no DNA repair seemed to occur in vivo up to 96 h post-venom inoculation at a dose of 30 µg/animal.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The results show that BMV presents cyto- and genotoxicity depending on the concentration/dose used. These findings emphasize the importance of toxicological studies, including assessment of genotoxicity, in the biological activity research of BMV and/or in the development of BMV-derived products.

Counteraction of Bothrops snake venoms by Combretum leprosum root extract and arjunolic acid

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Serotherapy against snakebite is often unavailable in some regions over Brazil, where people make use of plants from folk medicine to deal with ophidic accidents. About 10% of Combretum species have some ethnopharmacological use, including treatment of snakebites.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated the ability of the extract of Combretum leprosum and its component arjunolic acid to reduce some in vivo and in vitro effects of Bothrops jararacussu and Bothrops jararaca venoms. The protocols investigated include phospholipase, proteolytic, collagenase, hyaluronidase, procoagulant, hemorrhagic, edematogenic, myotoxic and lethal activities induced by these venoms in Swiss mice.

RESULTS

Oral pre-treatment with arjunolic acid reduced the Bothrops jararacussu lethality in up to 75%, while preincubation prevented the death of all the animals. Hemoconcentration effect of Bothrops jararacussu venom was confirmed two hours after i.p. injection, while preincubation with arjunolic acid preserved the hematocrit levels. Both Combretum leprosum extract and arjunolic acid abolished the myotoxic action of Bothrops jararacussu venom. Preincubation of Bothrops jararacussu venom with the extract or arjunolic acid prevented the increase of plasma creatine kinase activity in mice. The hemorrhagic activity of Bothrops jararaca crude venom was reduced down to about 90% and completely inhibited by preincubation with 10 mg/kg or 100 mg/kg Combretum leprosum extract, respectively, while the preincubation and the pretreatment with 30 mg/kg of arjunolic acid reduced the venom hemorrhagic activity down to about 12% and 58%, respectively. The preincubation of the venom with both extract and 30 mg/kg arjunolic acid significantly reduced the bleeding amount induced by Bothrops jararacussu venom. The extract of Combretum leprosum decreased the edema formation induced by Bothrops jararacussu venom both in preincubation and pretreatment, but not in posttreatment. Similarly, arjunolic acid preincubated with the venom abolished edema formation, while pre- and posttreatment have been partially effective. Some enzymatic activities of Bothrops jararacussu and Bothrops jararaca venoms, i.e. phospholipase A2, collagenase, proteolytic and hyaluronidase activities, were to some extent inhibited by the extract and arjunolic acid in a concentration-dependent manner.

CONCLUSIONS

Altogether, our results show that Combretum leprosum extract can inhibit different activities of two important Brazilian snake venoms, giving support for its popular use in folk medicine in the management of venomous snakebites.

Heterologous expression and biochemical and functional characterization of a recombinant alpha-type myotoxin inhibitor from Bothrops alternatus snake

Venomous and non-venomous snakes possess phospholipase A2 (PLA2) inhibitory proteins (PLIs) in their blood serum. This study shows the expression and biochemical and functional characterization of a recombinant alpha inhibitor from Bothrops alternatus snake, named rBaltMIP. Its expression was performed in Pichia pastoris heterologous system, resulting in an active recombinant protein. The expressed inhibitor was tested regarding its ability to inhibit the phospholipase activity of different PLA2s, showing slight inhibitions especially at the molar ratios of 1:1 and 1:3 (PLA2:PLI). rBaltMIP was also effective in decreasing the myotoxic activity of the tested toxins at molar ratios greater than 1:0.4 (myotoxin:PLI). The inhibition of the myotoxic activity of different Asp49 (BthTX-II and PrTX-III) and Lys49 (BthTX-I and PrTX-I) myotoxins was also performed without the prior incubation of myotoxins/inhibitor in order to analyze the real possibility of using snake plasma inhibitors or recombinant inhibitors as therapeutic agents for treating envenomations. As a result, rBaltMIP was able to significantly inhibit the myotoxicity of Lys49 myotoxins. Histopathological analysis of the gastrocnemius muscles of mice showed that the myotoxins are able to induce severe damage to the muscle fibers of experimental animals by recruiting a large number of leukocyte infiltrates, besides forming an intense accumulation of intercellular fluid, leading to local edema. When those myotoxins were incubated with rBaltMIP, a reduction of the damage site could be observed. Furthermore, the cytotoxic activity of Asp49 PLA2s and Lys49 PLA2-like enzymes on C2C12 cell lines was decreased, as shown by the higher cell viabilities after preincubation with rBaltMIP. Heterologous expression would enable large-scale obtainment of rBaltMIP, thus allowing further investigations for the elucidation of possible mechanisms of inhibition of snake PLA2s, which have not yet been fully clarified.

Rapid purification of a new P-I class metalloproteinase from Bothrops moojeni venom with antiplatelet activity

The present study aimed to evaluate the proteolytic and biological activities of a new metalloproteinase from B. moojeni venom. The purification of BmooMPα-II was carried out through two chromatographic steps (ion-exchange and affinity). BmooMPα-II is a monomeric protein with an apparent molecular mass of 22.5 kDa on SDS-PAGE 14% under nonreducing conditions. The N-terminal sequence (FSPRYIELVVVADHGMFTKYKSNLN) revealed homology with other snake venom metalloproteinases, mainly among P-I class. BmooMPα-II cleaves Aα-chain of fibrinogen followed by Bβ-chain, and does not show any effect on the γ-chain. Its optimum temperature and pH for the fibrinogenolytic activity were 30–50°C and pH 8, respectively. The inhibitory effects of EDTA and 1,10-phenantroline on the fibrinogenolytic activity suggest that BmooMPα-II is a metalloproteinase. This proteinase was devoid of haemorrhagic, coagulant, or anticoagulant activities. BmooMPα-II caused morphological alterations in liver, lung, kidney, and muscle of Swiss mice. The enzymatically active protein yet inhibited collagen, ADP, and ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation in a concentration-dependent manner. Our results suggest that BmooMPα-II contributes to the toxic effect of the envenomation and that more investigations to elucidate the mechanisms of inhibition of platelet aggregation may contribute to the studies of snake venom on thrombotic disorders.

Neutralisation of the pharmacological activities of Bothrops alternatus venom by anti-PLA2 IgGs

Basic phospholipases A2 (PLA2) are toxic and induce a wide spectrum of pharmacological effects, although the acidic enzyme types are not lethal or cause low lethality. Therefore, it is challenging to elucidate the mechanism of action of acidic phospholipases. This study used the acidic non-toxic Ba SpII RP4 PLA2 from Bothrops alternatus as an antigen to develop anti-PLA2 IgG antibodies in rabbits and used in vivo assays to examine the changes in crude venom when pre-incubated with these antibodies. Using Ouchterlony and western blot analyses on B. alternatus venom, we examined the specificity and sensitivity of phospholipase A2 recognition by the specific antibodies (anti-PLA2 IgG). Neutralisation assays using a non-toxic PLA2 antigen revealed unexpected results. The (indirect) haemolytic activity of whole venom was completely inhibited, and all catalytically active phospholipases A2 were blocked. Myotoxicity and lethality were reduced when the crude venom was pre-incubated with anti-PLA2 immunoglobulins. CK levels in the skeletal muscle were significantly reduced at 6 h, and the muscular damage was more significant at this time-point compared to 3 and 12 h. When four times the LD50 was used (224 μg), half the animals treated with the venom-anti PLA2 IgG mixture survived after 48 h. All assays performed with the specific antibodies revealed that Ba SpII RP4 PLA2 had a synergistic effect on whole-venom toxicity. IgG antibodies against the venom of the Argentinean species B. alternatus represent a valuable tool for elucidation of the roles of acidic PLA2 that appear to have purely digestive roles and for further studies on immunotherapy and snake envenoming in affected areas in Argentina and Brazil.

Purification and characterization of BmooAi: a new toxin from Bothrops moojeni snake venom that inhibits platelet aggregation

In this paper, we describe the purification/characterization of BmooAi, a new toxin from Bothrops moojeni that inhibits platelet aggregation. The purification of BmooAi was carried out through three chromatographic steps (ion-exchange on a DEAE-Sephacel column, molecular exclusion on a Sephadex G-75 column, and reverse-phase HPLC chromatography on a C2/C18 column). BmooAi was homogeneous by SDS-PAGE and shown to be a single-chain protein of 15,000 Da. BmooAi was analysed by MALDI-TOF Spectrometry and revealed two major components with molecular masses 7824.4 and 7409.2 as well as a trace of protein with a molecular mass of 15,237.4 Da. Sequencing of BmooAi by Edman degradation showed two amino acid sequences: IRDFDPLTNAPENTA and ETEEGAEEGTQ, which revealed no homology to any known toxin from snake venom. BmooAi showed a rather specific inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation induced by collagen, adenosine diphosphate, or epinephrine in human platelet-rich plasma in a dose-dependent manner, whereas it had little or no effect on platelet aggregation induced by ristocetin. The effect on platelet aggregation induced by BmooAi remained active even when heated to 100°C. BmooAi could be of medical interest as a new tool for the development of novel therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of thrombotic disorders.

Effects of a low-level semiconductor gallium arsenide laser on local pathological alterations induced by Bothrops moojeni snake venom

Antivenom therapy has been ineffective in neutralizing the tissue damage caused by snakebites. Among therapeutic strategies to minimize effects after envenoming, it was hypothesized that a low level laser would reduce complications and reduce the severity of local snake venom effects. In the current study, the effect of a low-level semiconductor gallium arsenide (GaAs) laser on the local pathological alterations induced by B. moojeni snake venom was investigated. The experimental groups consisted of five male mice, each administered either B. moojeni venom (VB), B. moojeni venom + antivenom (VAV), B. moojeni venom + laser (VL), B. moojeni venom + antivenom + laser (VAVL), or sterile saline solution (SSS) alone. Paw oedema was induced by intradermal administration of 0.05 mg kg(-1) of B. moojeni venom and was expressed in mm of directly induced oedema. Mice received by subcutaneous route 0.20 mg kg(-1) of venom for evaluating nociceptive activity and the time (in seconds) spent in licking and biting the injected paw was taken as an indicator of pain response. Inflammatory infiltration was determined by counting the number of leukocytes present in the gastrocnemius muscle after venom injection (0.10 mg kg(-1)). For histological examination of myonecrosis, venom (0.10 mg kg(-1)) was administered intramuscularly. The site of venom injection was irradiated by the GaAs laser and some animals received antivenom intraperitoneally. The results indicated that GaAs laser irradiation can help in reducing some local effects produced by the B. moojeni venom in mice, stimulating phagocytosis, proliferation of myoblasts and the regeneration of muscle fibers.

Purification and biochemical characterization of three myotoxins from Bothrops mattogrossensis snake venom with toxicity against Leishmania and tumor cells

Bothrops mattogrossensis snake is widely distributed throughout eastern South America and is responsible for snakebites in this region. This paper reports the purification and biochemical characterization of three new phospholipases A₂ (PLA₂s), one of which is presumably an enzymatically active Asp49 and two are very likely enzymatically inactive Lys49 PLA₂ homologues. The purification was obtained after two chromatographic steps on ion exchange and reverse phase column. The 2D SDS-PAGE analysis revealed that the proteins have pI values around 10, are each made of a single chain, and have molecular masses near 13 kDa, which was confirmed by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. The N-terminal similarity analysis of the sequences showed that the proteins are highly homologous with other Lys49 and Asp49 PLA₂s from Bothrops species. The PLA₂s isolated were named BmatTX-I (Lys49 PLA₂-like), BmatTX-II (Lys49 PLA₂-like), and BmatTX-III (Asp49 PLA₂). The PLA₂s induced cytokine release from mouse neutrophils and showed cytotoxicity towards JURKAT (leukemia T) and SK-BR-3 (breast adenocarcinoma) cell lines and promastigote forms of Leishmania amazonensis. The structural and functional elucidation of snake venoms components may contribute to a better understanding of the mechanism of action of these proteins during envenomation and their potential pharmacological and therapeutic applications.

Molecular cloning and pharmacological properties of an acidic PLA2 from Bothrops pauloensis snake venom

In this work, we describe the molecular cloning and pharmacological properties of an acidic phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) isolated from Bothrops pauloensis snake venom. This enzyme, denominated BpPLA(2)-TXI, was purified by four chromatographic steps and represents 2.4% of the total snake venom protein content. BpPLA(2)-TXI is a monomeric protein with a molecular mass of 13.6 kDa, as demonstrated by Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) analysis and its theoretical isoelectric point was 4.98. BpPLA(2)-TXI was catalytically active and showed some pharmacological effects such as inhibition of platelet aggregation induced by collagen or ADP and also induced edema and myotoxicity. BpPLA(2)-TXI displayed low cytotoxicity on TG-180 (CCRF S 180 II) and Ovarian Carcinoma (OVCAR-3), whereas no cytotoxicity was found in regard to MEF (Mouse Embryonic Fibroblast) and Sarcoma 180 (TIB-66). The N-terminal sequence of forty-eight amino acid residues was determined by Edman degradation. In addition, the complete primary structure of 122 amino acids was deduced by cDNA from the total RNA of the venom gland using specific primers, and it was significantly similar to other acidic D49 PLA(2)s. The phylogenetic analyses showed that BpPLA(2)-TXI forms a group with other acidic D49 PLA(2)s from the gender Bothrops, which are characterized by a catalytic activity associated with anti-platelet effects.

In vitro comparison of enzymatic effects among Brazilian Bothrops spp. venoms

In various types of snake venom, the major toxic components are proteinases and members of the phospholipase A2 family, although other enzymes also contribute to the toxicity. In this study, we evaluated the proteolytic, phospholipase, and L-Amino acid oxidase activities in the venom of five Bothrops species-Bothrops jararaca, Bothrops jararacussu, Bothrops moojeni, Bothrops neuwiedi, and Bothrops alternatus-all of which are used in the production of commercial antivenom, prepared in horses. The enzymatic activities of each species' venom were classified as high, moderate, or low. B. moojeni venom demonstrated the highest enzymatic activity profile, followed by the venom of B. neuwiedi, B. jararacussu, B. jararaca, and B. alternatus. To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare all of these enzymes from multiple species, which is significant in view of the activity of L-amino acid oxidase across Bothrops species.

Bmoo FIBMP-I: A New Fibrinogenolytic Metalloproteinase from Bothrops moojeni Snake Venom

A new fibrinogenolytic metalloproteinase (Bmoo FIBMP-I) was purified from Bothrops moojeni snake venom. This enzyme was isolated through a combination of three chromatographic steps (ion-exchange, molecular exclusion, and affinity chromatography). Analyses by reverse phase chromatography, followed by mass spectrometry, showed the presence of enzyme isoforms with average molecular mass of 22.8 kDa. The SDS-PAGE analyses showed a single chain of 27.6 kDa, in the presence and absence of reducing agent. The protein has a blocked N-terminal. One of the peptides obtained by enzymatic digestion of a reduced and S-alkylated isoform was completely sequenced by mass spectrometry (MS/MS). Bmoo FIBMP-I showed similarity with hemorrhagic factor and several metalloproteinases (MP). This enzyme degraded Aα-chain faster than the Bβ-chain and did not affect the γ-chain of bovine fibrinogen. The absence of proteolytic activity after treatment with EDTA, together with the observed molecular mass, led us to suggest that Bmoo FIBMP-I is a member of the P-I class of the snake venom MP family. Bmoo FIBMP-I showed pH-dependent proteolytic activity on azocasein, but was devoid of coagulant, defibrinating, or hemorrhagic activities. The kinetic parameters of proteolytic activity in azocasein were determined (V max = 0.4596 Uh(-1)nmol(-1) ± 0.1031 and K m = 14.59 mg/mL ± 4.610).

Isolation and functional characterization of proinflammatory acidic phospholipase A2 from Bothrops leucurus snake venom

In the present study, an acidic PLA(2), designated Bl-PLA(2), was isolated from Bothrops leucurus snake venom through two chromatographic steps: ion-exchange on CM-Sepharose and hydrophobic chromatography on Phenyl-Sepharose. Bl-PLA(2) was homogeneous on SDS-PAGE and when submitted to 2D electrophoresis the molecular mass was 15,000Da and pI was 5.4. Its N-terminal sequence revealed a high homology with other Asp49 acidic PLA(2)s from snake venoms. Its specific activity was 159.9U/mg and the indirect hemolytic activity was also higher than that of the crude venom. Bl-PLA(2) induced low myotoxic and edema activities as compared to those of the crude venom. Moreover, the enzyme was able to induce increments in IL-12p40, TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 levels and no variation of IL-8 and IL-10 in human PBMC stimulated in vitro, suggesting that Bl-PLA(2) induces proinflammatory cytokine production by human mononuclear cells. Bothrops leucurus venom is still not extensively explored and knowledge of its components will contribute for a better understanding of its action mechanism.

Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction studies of BmooPLA2-I, a platelet-aggregation inhibitor and hypotensive phospholipase A2 from Bothrops moojeni venom

Phospholipases A(2) (PLA(2)s) are enzymes that cause the liberation of fatty acids and lysophospholipids by the hydrolysis of membrane phospholipids. In addition to their catalytic action, a wide variety of pharmacological activities have been described for snake-venom PLA(2)s. BmooPLA(2)-I is an acidic, nontoxic and catalytic PLA(2) isolated from Bothrops moojeni snake venom which exhibits an inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation, an immediate decrease in blood pressure, inducing oedema at a low concentration, and an effective bactericidal effect. BmooPLA(2)-I has been crystallized and X-ray diffraction data have been collected to 1.6 Å resolution using a synchrotron-radiation source. The crystals belonged to space group C222(1), with unit-cell parameters a = 39.7, b = 53.2, c = 89.2 Å. The molecular-replacement solution of BmooPLA(2)-I indicated a monomeric conformation, which is in agreement with nondenaturing electrophoresis and dynamic light-scattering experiments. A comparative study of this enzyme with the acidic PLA(2) from B. jararacussu (BthA-I) and other toxic and nontoxic PLA(2)s may provide important insights into the functional aspects of this class of proteins.

Enzymatic toxins from snake venom: structural characterization and mechanism of catalysis

Snake venoms are cocktails of enzymes and non-enzymatic proteins used for both the immobilization and digestion of prey. The most common snake venom enzymes include acetylcholinesterases, l-amino acid oxidases, serine proteinases, metalloproteinases and phospholipases A(2) . Higher catalytic efficiency, thermal stability and resistance to proteolysis make these enzymes attractive models for biochemists, enzymologists and structural biologists. Here, we review the structures of these enzymes and describe their structure-based mechanisms of catalysis and inhibition. Some of the enzymes exist as protein complexes in the venom. Thus we also discuss the functional role of non-enzymatic subunits and the pharmacological effects of such protein complexes. The structures of inhibitor-enzyme complexes provide ideal platforms for the design of potent inhibitors which are useful in the development of prototypes and lead compounds with potential therapeutic applications.

Molecular characterization of an acidic phospholipase A(2) from Bothrops pirajai snake venom: synthetic C-terminal peptide identifies its antiplatelet region

This paper describes a biochemical and pharmacological characterization of BpirPLA(2)-I, the first acidic Asp49-PLA(2) isolated from Bothrops pirajai. BpirPLA(2)-I caused hypotension in vivo, presented phospholipolytic activity upon artificial substrates and inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation in vitro. Moreover, a synthetic peptide of BpirPLA(2)-I, comprising residues of the C-terminal region, reproduced the antiplatelet activity of the intact protein. A cDNA fragment of 366 bp encompassing the mature form of BpirPLA(2)-I was cloned by reverse transcriptase-PCR of B. pirajai venom gland total RNA. A Bayesian phylogenetic analysis indicated that BpirPLA(2)-I forms a clade with other acid Asp49-PLA(2) enzymes from the Bothrops genus, which are characterized by the high catalytic activity associated with anticoagulant or hypotensive activity or both. Comparison of the electrostatic potential (EP) on the molecular surfaces calculated from a BpirPLA(2)-I homology model and from the crystallographic models of a group of close homologues revealed that the greatest number of charge inversions occurred on the face opposite to the active site entrance, particularly in the Ca(2+) ion binding loop. This observation suggests a possible relationship between the basic or acid character of PLA(2) enzymes and the functionality of the Ca(2+) ion binding loop.

Haemostatically active proteins in snake venoms

Snake venom proteins that affect the haemostatic system can cause (a) lowering of blood coagulability, (b) damage to blood vessels, resulting in bleeding, (c) secondary effects of bleeding, e.g. hypovolaemic shock and organ damage, and (d) thrombosis. These proteins may, or may not, be enzymes. We review the data on the most relevant haemostatically active proteinases, phospholipases A₂, L-amino acid oxidases and 5'-nucleotidases from snake venoms. We also survey the non-enzymatic effectors of haemostasis from snake venoms--disintegrins, C-type lectins and three-finger toxins. Medical applications have already been found for some of these snake venom proteins. We describe those that have already been approved as drugs to treat haemostatic disorders or are being used to diagnose such health problems. No clinical applications, however, currently exist for the majority of snake venom proteins acting on haemostasis. We conclude with the most promising potential uses in this respect.