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Kowalski K, Marciniak P, Rychlik L. A new, widespread venomous mammal species: hemolytic activity of Sorex araneus venom is similar to that of Neomys fodiens venom. ZOOLOGICAL LETTERS 2022; 8:7. [PMID: 35672837 PMCID: PMC9172195 DOI: 10.1186/s40851-022-00191-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Venom production has evolved independently many times in the animal kingdom, although it is rare among mammals. Venomous shrews produce toxins in their salivary glands and use their venoms to hunt and store prey. Thus far, the toxicity and composition of shrew venoms have been studied only in two shrew species: the northern short-tailed shrew, Blarina brevicauda, and the Eurasian water shrew, Neomys fodiens. Venom of N. fodiens has potent paralytic activity which enables hunting and storing prey in a comatose state. Here, we assayed the hemolytic effects of extracts from salivary glands of N. fodiens and the common shrew, Sorex araneus, in erythrocytes of Pelophylax sp. frogs. We identified toxins in shrew venom by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS Our results prove, confirming a suggestion made four centuries ago, that S. araneus is venomous. We also provide the first experimental evidence that shrew venoms produce potent hemolysis in frog erythrocytes. We found significant concentration-dependent effects of venoms of N. fodiens and S. araneus on hemolysis of red blood cells evaluated as hemoglobin release. Treatment of erythrocytes with N. fodiens venom at concentrations of 1.0 and 0.5 mg/ml and with S. araneus venom at concentration of 1.0 mg/ml caused an increased release of hemoglobin. Our findings confirm that hemolytic effects of N. fodiens venom are stronger than those produced by S. araneus venom. We identified four toxins in the venom of N. fodiens: proenkephalin, phospholipase A2 (PLA2), a disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein (ADAM) and lysozyme C, as well as a non-toxic hyaluronidase. In the venom of S. araneus we found five toxins: proenkephalin, kallikrein 1-related peptidase, beta-defensin, ADAM and lysozyme C. PLA2 and ADAMs are likely to produce hemolysis in frog erythrocytes. CONCLUSIONS Our results clearly show that shrew venoms possess hemolytic action that may allow them to hunt larger prey. Since a member of the numerous genus Sorex is venomous, it is likely that venom production among shrews and other eulipotyphlans may be more widespread than it has previously been assumed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Kowalski
- Department of Vertebrate Zoology and Ecology, Institute of Biology, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Paweł Marciniak
- Department of Animal Physiology and Developmental Biology, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 6, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Leszek Rychlik
- Department of Systematic Zoology, Institute of Environmental Biology, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 6, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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FIOROTTI HELENAB, SOARES THIAGOG, BORGES MÁRCIAH, MATAVEL ALESSANDRA, CAMPOS FABIANAV, FIGUEIREDO SUELYGDE. Preliminary report on the hemagglutinating activity of the Scorpaena plumieri fish venom. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2022; 94:e20200976. [DOI: 10.1590/0001-376520220976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- HELENA B. FIOROTTI
- Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Brazil; Instituto Butantan, Brazil
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Fish Cytolysins in All Their Complexity. Toxins (Basel) 2021; 13:toxins13120877. [PMID: 34941715 PMCID: PMC8704401 DOI: 10.3390/toxins13120877] [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: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The majority of the effects observed upon envenomation by scorpaenoid fish species can be reproduced by the cytolysins present in their venoms. Fish cytolysins are multifunctional proteins that elicit lethal, cytolytic, cardiovascular, inflammatory, nociceptive, and neuromuscular activities, representing a novel class of protein toxins. These large proteins (MW 150–320 kDa) are composed by two different subunits, termed α and β, with about 700 amino acid residues each, being usually active in oligomeric form. There is a high degree of similarity between the primary sequences of cytolysins from different fish species. This suggests these molecules share similar mechanisms of action, which, at least regarding the cytolytic activity, has been proved to involve pore formation. Although the remaining components of fish venoms have interesting biological activities, fish cytolysins stand out because of their multifunctional nature and their ability to reproduce the main events of envenomation on their own. Considerable knowledge about fish cytolysins has been accumulated over the years, although there remains much to be unveiled. In this review, we compiled and compared the current information on the biochemical aspects and pharmacological activities of fish cytolysins, going over their structures, activities, mechanisms of action, and perspectives for the future.
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Klompen AML, Macrander J, Reitzel AM, Stampar SN. Transcriptomic Analysis of Four Cerianthid (Cnidaria, Ceriantharia) Venoms. Mar Drugs 2020; 18:md18080413. [PMID: 32764303 PMCID: PMC7460484 DOI: 10.3390/md18080413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tube anemones, or cerianthids, are a phylogenetically informative group of cnidarians with complex life histories, including a pelagic larval stage and tube-dwelling adult stage, both known to utilize venom in stinging-cell rich tentacles. Cnidarians are an entirely venomous group that utilize their proteinaceous-dominated toxins to capture prey and defend against predators, in addition to several other ecological functions, including intraspecific interactions. At present there are no studies describing the venom for any species within cerianthids. Given their unique development, ecology, and distinct phylogenetic-placement within Cnidaria, our objective is to evaluate the venom-like gene diversity of four species of cerianthids from newly collected transcriptomic data. We identified 525 venom-like genes between all four species. The venom-gene profile for each species was dominated by enzymatic protein and peptide families, which is consistent with previous findings in other cnidarian venoms. However, we found few toxins that are typical of sea anemones and corals, and furthermore, three of the four species express toxin-like genes closely related to potent pore-forming toxins in box jellyfish. Our study is the first to provide a survey of the putative venom composition of cerianthids and contributes to our general understanding of the diversity of cnidarian toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M. L. Klompen
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, 1200 Sunnyside Ave., Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Jason Macrander
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28262, USA; (J.M.); (A.M.R.)
- Department of Biology, Florida Southern College, 111 Lake Hollingsworth, Drive Lakeland, FL 33801, USA
| | - Adam M. Reitzel
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28262, USA; (J.M.); (A.M.R.)
| | - Sérgio N. Stampar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Universidade Estadual Paulista “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (UNESP), FCL, Assis, SP 19806, Brazil;
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The venoms of the lesser ( Echiichthys vipera) and greater ( Trachinus draco) weever fish- A review. Toxicon X 2020; 6:100025. [PMID: 32550581 PMCID: PMC7285994 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2020.100025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In comparison with other animal venoms, fish venoms remain relatively understudied. This is especially true for that of the lesser Echiichthys vipera and greater weever fish Trachinus draco which, apart from the isolation of their unique venom cytolysins, trachinine and dracotoxin, respectively, remain relatively uncharacterised. Envenomation reports mainly include mild symptoms consisting of nociception and inflammation. However, like most fish venoms, if the venom becomes systemic it causes cardiorespiratory and blood pressure changes. Although T. draco venom has not been studied since the 1990's, recent studies on E. vipera venom have discovered novel cytotoxic components on human cancer cells, but due to the scarcity of research on the molecular make-up of the venom, the molecule(s) causing this cytotoxicity remains unknown. This review analyses past studies on E. vipera and T. draco venom, the methods used in the , the venom constituents characterised, the reported symptoms of envenomation and compares these findings with those from other venomous Scorpaeniformes. Research on the weever fish venoms Echiichthys vipera and Trachinus draco has been scarce. E. vipera and T. draco venoms elicit cardiorespiratory symptoms in victims. E. vipera and T. draco contain unique cytolysins – Trachinine and Dracotoxin. Dracotoxin is haemolytic and contains membrane depolarising activities. E. vipera venom triggers apoptosis in human colon carcinoma cells.
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Costa FLS, De Lima ME, Figueiredo SG, Ferreira RS, Prates NS, Sakamoto T, Salas CE. Sequence analysis of the cDNA encoding for SpCTx: a lethal factor from scorpionfish venom ( Scorpaena plumieri). J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2018; 24:24. [PMID: 30181739 PMCID: PMC6114736 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-018-0158-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lethal factors are multifunctional oligomeric proteins found in the venomous apparatus of Scorpaeniformes fish. These toxins elicit not only an array of biological responses in vitro but also cardiovascular disorders and strong hemolytic, nociceptive and edematogenic activities in vivo. This work describes the cloning and molecular identification of two toxin subunits, denominated Sp-CTx-α and Sp-CTx-β, from scorpionfish venom (Scorpaena plumieri). Methods The primary structures were deduced after cDNA amplification by PCR with primers from conserved sequences described in Scorpaeniformes toxins. Following DNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis, the tridimensional structures of both subunits were modeled. Results The translated sequences (702 amino acids, each subunit) show homology with other lethal factors, while alignment between Sp-CTx-α and Sp-CTx-β shows 54% identity. The subunits lack N-terminal signal sequences and display masses of approximately 80 kDa each. Both Sp-CTx subunits display a B30.2/SPRY domain at the C-terminal region with typically conserved motifs as described in these toxins. Secondary structure prediction identified six α-helices 18 residues long in both α and β subunits, some of them amphiphilic with their N-terminal flanked by many basic residues, creating a cationic site associated with the cytolytic activity of these toxins. Antimicrobial potential sites were identified in Sp-CTx and share some features with other peptides presenting variable and broad-spectrum activity. A phylogenetic tree built to represent these toxins supports the proximity between scorpionfish, lionfish and stonefish. Conclusion The study identified a putative toxin protein whose primary structure is similar to other fish toxins and with potential for production of antivenom against scorpionfish envenomation in Brazil. As a prelude to structure-function studies, we propose that the toxin is structurally related to pore-forming marine toxins. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40409-018-0158-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio L S Costa
- 1Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901 Brazil
| | - Maria Elena De Lima
- 1Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901 Brazil
| | - Suely G Figueiredo
- 2Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES Brazil
| | - Rafaela S Ferreira
- 1Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901 Brazil
| | - Núbia S Prates
- 1Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901 Brazil
| | - Tetsu Sakamoto
- 1Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901 Brazil
| | - Carlos E Salas
- 1Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901 Brazil
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7
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Borges MH, Andrich F, Lemos PH, Soares TG, Menezes TN, Campos FV, Neves LX, Castro-Borges W, Figueiredo SG. Combined proteomic and functional analysis reveals rich sources of protein diversity in skin mucus and venom from the Scorpaena plumieri fish. J Proteomics 2018; 187:200-211. [PMID: 30098406 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2018.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The biological activities observed upon envenomation by Scorpaena plumieri could be linked to both the venom and the skin mucus. Through a proteomic/functional approach we analyzed protein composition and biological activities of the venom and skin mucus. We identified 885 proteins: 722 in the Venomous Apparatus extracts (Sp-VAe) and 391 in the Skin Mucus extract (Sp-SMe), with 494 found exclusively in Sp-VAe, being named S. plumieri Venom Proteins (Sp-VP), while 228 were found in both extracts. The majority of the many proteins identified were not directly related to the biological activities reported here. Nevertheless, some were classified as toxins/potentially interesting molecules: lectins, proteases and protease inhibitors were detected in both extracts, while the pore-forming toxin and hyaluronidase were associated with Sp-VP. Proteolytic and anti-microbial activities were linked to both extracts, while the main toxic activities - cardiovascular, inflammatory, hemolytic and nociceptive - were elicited only by Sp-VAe. Our study provided a clear picture on the composition of the skin mucus and the venom. We also show that the classic effects observed upon envenomation are produced by molecules from the venomous gland. Our results add to the growing catalogue of scorpaeniform fish venoms and their skin mucus proteins. SIGNIFICANCE In this study a large number of proteins - including classical and non-classical toxins - were identified in the venomous apparatus and the skin mucus extracts of the Scorpaena plumieri fish through shotgun proteomic approach. It was shown that the toxic effects observed upon envenomation are elicited by molecules originated from the venomous gland. These results add to the growing catalogue of scorpaeniform fish venoms and their skin mucus proteins - so scarcely explored when compared to the venoms and bioactive components of terrestrial animals. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD009983.
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Affiliation(s)
- Márcia H Borges
- Laboratório de Proteômica, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Filipe Andrich
- Laboratório de Química de Proteínas, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Pedro H Lemos
- Laboratório de Química de Proteínas, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Thiago G Soares
- Laboratório de Proteômica, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Thiago N Menezes
- Laboratório de Química de Proteínas, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Fabiana V Campos
- Laboratório de Química de Proteínas, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Leandro X Neves
- Laboratório de Enzimologia e Proteômica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - William Castro-Borges
- Laboratório de Enzimologia e Proteômica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| | - Suely G Figueiredo
- Laboratório de Química de Proteínas, Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil.
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Malacarne PF, Menezes TN, Martins CW, Naumann GB, Gomes HL, Pires RGW, Figueiredo SG, Campos FV. Advances in the characterization of the Scorpaena plumieri cytolytic toxin (Sp-CTx). Toxicon 2018; 150:220-227. [PMID: 29902539 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.06.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Proteins that account for the hemolytic activity found in scorpaeniform fish venoms are responsible for the majority of the effects observed upon envenomation, for instance, neurotoxic, cardiotoxic and inflammatory effects. These multifunctional toxins, described as protein lethal factors and referred to as cytolysins, are known to be extremely labile molecules. In the present work, we endeavored to overcome this constraint by determining optimal storage conditions for Sp-CTx, the major bioactive component from the scorpionfish Scorpaena plumieri venom. This cardiotoxic hemolytic cytolysin is a large dimeric glycoprotein (subunits of ≈65 kDa) with pore-forming ability. We were able to establish storage conditions that allowed us to keep the toxin partially active for up to 60 days. Stability was achieved by storing Sp-CTx at -80 and -196 °C in the presence of glycerol 10% in a pH 7.4 solution. It was demonstrated that the hemolytic activity of Sp-CTx is calcium dependent, being abolished by EDTA and zinc ions. Furthermore, the toxin exhibited its maximal hemolytic activity at pH between 8 and 9, displaying typical N- and O- linked glycoconjugated residues (galactose (1-4) N-acetylglucosamine and sialic acid (2-3) galactose in N- and/or O-glycan complexes). The hemolytic activity of Sp-CTx was inhibited by phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine, suggesting a direct electrostatic interaction lipid - toxin in the pore-formation mechanism of action of this toxin. In addition, we observed that the hemolytic activity was inhibited by increasing doses of cholesterol. Finally, we were able to show, for first time, that Sp-CTx is at least partially responsible for the pain and inflammation observed upon envenomation. However, while the edema induced by Sp-CTx was reduced by pre-treatment with aprotinin and HOE-140, pointing to the involvement of the kallikrein-kinin system in this response, these drugs had no significant effect in the toxin-induced nociception. Taken together, our results could suggest that, as has been already reported for other fish cytolysins, Sp-CTx acts mostly through lipid-dependent pore formation not only in erythrocytes but also in other cell types, which could account for the pain observed upon envenomation. We believe that the present work paves the way towards the complete characterization of fish cytolysins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro F Malacarne
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, Maruípe, 29043-900, Vitória, ES, Brazil.
| | - Thiago N Menezes
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, Maruípe, 29043-900, Vitória, ES, Brazil.
| | - Cleciane W Martins
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, Maruípe, 29043-900, Vitória, ES, Brazil.
| | - Gustavo B Naumann
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, Maruípe, 29043-900, Vitória, ES, Brazil; Diretoria do Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Rua Conde Pereira Carneiro 80, Gameleira, 30510-010, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | - Helena L Gomes
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, Maruípe, 29043-900, Vitória, ES, Brazil.
| | - Rita G W Pires
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, Maruípe, 29043-900, Vitória, ES, Brazil.
| | - Suely G Figueiredo
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, Maruípe, 29043-900, Vitória, ES, Brazil.
| | - Fabiana V Campos
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, Maruípe, 29043-900, Vitória, ES, Brazil.
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Sáenz A, Ortiz N, Lomonte B, Rucavado A, Díaz C. Comparison of biochemical and cytotoxic activities of extracts obtained from dorsal spines and caudal fin of adult and juvenile non-native Caribbean lionfish (Pterois volitans/miles). Toxicon 2017; 137:158-167. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Dos Santos DMRC, de Souza CB, Pereira HJV. Angiotensin converting enzymes in fish venom. Toxicon 2017; 131:63-67. [PMID: 28284848 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2017.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Animal venoms are multifaceted mixtures, including proteins, peptides and enzymes produced by animals in defense, predation and digestion. These molecules have been investigated concerning their molecular mechanisms associated and possible pharmacological applications. Thalassophryne nattereri is a small venomous fish inhabiting the northern and northeastern coast of Brazil, and represents a relatively frequent cause of injuries. Its venom causes severe inflammatory response followed frequently by the necrosis of the affected area. Scorpaena plumieri is the most venomous fish in the Brazilian fauna and is responsible for relatively frequent accidents involving anglers and bathers. In humans, its venom causes edema, erythema, ecchymoses, nausea, vomiting, and syncope. Recently, the presence of a type of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity in the venom of Thalassophryne nattereri and Scorpaena plumieri, endemic fishes in northeastern coast of Brazil, has been described. The ACE converts angiotensin I (Ang I) into angiotensin II (Ang II) and inactivates bradykinin, there by regulating blood pressure and electrolyte homeostasis, however, their function in these venoms remains an unknown. This article provides an overview of the current knowledge on ACE in the venoms of Thalassophryne nattereri and Scorpaena plumier.
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Campos FV, Menezes TN, Malacarne PF, Costa FLS, Naumann GB, Gomes HL, Figueiredo SG. A review on the Scorpaena plumieri fish venom and its bioactive compounds. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2016; 22:35. [PMID: 28031733 PMCID: PMC5175314 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-016-0090-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The most poisonous fish species found along the Brazilian coast is the spotted scorpionfish Scorpaena plumieri. Though hardly ever life-threatening to humans, envenomation by S. plumieri can be quite hazardous, provoking extreme pain and imposing significant socioeconomic costs, as the victims may require days to weeks to recover from their injuries. In this review we will walk the reader through the biological features that distinguish this species as well as the current epidemiological knowledge related to the envenomation and its consequences. But above all, we will discuss the challenges involved in the biochemical characterization of the S. plumieri venom and its compounds, focusing then on the successful isolation and pharmacological analysis of some of the bioactive molecules responsible for the effects observed upon envenomation as well as on experimental models. Despite the achievement of considerable progress, much remains to be done, particularly in relation to the non-proteinaceous components of the venom. Therefore, further studies are necessary in order to provide a more complete picture of the venom’s chemical composition and physiological effects. Given that fish venoms remain considerably less studied when compared to terrestrial venoms, the exploration of their full potential opens a myriad of possibilities for the development of new drug leads and tools for elucidating the complex physiological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana V Campos
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, 29040-090 Vitória, ES Brazil
| | - Thiago N Menezes
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, 29040-090 Vitória, ES Brazil
| | - Pedro F Malacarne
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, 29040-090 Vitória, ES Brazil
| | - Fábio L S Costa
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Fisiológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Gustavo B Naumann
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, 29040-090 Vitória, ES Brazil ; Diretoria do Centro de Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento, Fundação Ezequiel Dias, Belo Horizonte, MG Brazil
| | - Helena L Gomes
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, 29040-090 Vitória, ES Brazil
| | - Suely G Figueiredo
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos 1468, 29040-090 Vitória, ES Brazil
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Tenório HDA, Costa RB, Costa Marques ME, Victor Dos Santos CW, Gomes FS, Vieira Pereira HJ. Angiotensins processing activities in the venom and epidermic mucus of Scorpaena plumieri. Toxicon 2016; 119:92-8. [PMID: 27215174 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The venom of marine animals is a rich source of compounds with remarkable selectivity and functional diversity. Scorpaena plumieri is the most venomous fish in the Brazilian fauna and is responsible for relatively frequent accidents involving anglers and bathers. In humans, its venom causes edema, erythema, ecchymoses, anxiety, nausea, vomiting, and syncope. The venom is chemically characterized by Sp-CTx, a enzyme able to generate an initial endothelium-dependent relaxation response, followed by a contraction response. This study sought to investigate the proteolytic activities regarding vasopeptides angiotensin I and II. Both the venom and the epidermal mucus presented angiotensin conversion activity for angiotensin I, as well as a capacity to form Ang 1-7 directly via Ang I and II. Captopril (10 μM) and EDTA (1 mM) were able to abolish the converting activity of the venom and the epidermal mucus, representing the first description of a converting activity in S. plumieri venom and epidermal mucus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ricardo Bezerra Costa
- Instituto de Química e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Maceió, Brazil
| | | | | | - Francis Soares Gomes
- Instituto de Química e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Maceió, Brazil
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Gomes HL, Menezes TN, Malacarne PF, Roman-Campos D, Gondim AN, Cruz JS, Vassallo DV, Figueiredo SG. Cardiovascular effects of Sp-CTx, a cytolysin from the scorpionfish (Scorpaena plumieri) venom. Toxicon 2016; 118:141-8. [PMID: 27155562 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Fish venom cytolysins are multifunctional proteins that in addition to their cytolytic/hemolytic effects display neurotoxic, cardiotoxic and inflammatory activities, being described as "protein lethal factors". A pore-forming cytolysin called Sp-CTx (Scorpaena plumieriCytolytic Toxin) has been recently purified from the venom of the scorpionfish Scorpaena plumieri. It is a glycoprotein with dimeric constitution, comprising subunits of approximately 65 kDa. Previous studies have revealed that this toxin has a vasorelaxant activity that appears to involve the L-arginine-nitric oxide synthase pathway; however its cardiovascular effects have not been fully comprehended. The present study examined the cardiovascular effects of Sp-CTx in vivo and in vitro. In anesthetized rats Sp-CTx (70 μg/kg i.v) produced a biphasic response which consisted of an initial systolic and diastolic pressure increase followed by a sustained decrease of these parameters and the heart rate. In isolated rats hearts Sp-CTx (10(-9) to 5 × 10(-6) M) produced concentration-dependent and transient ventricular positive inotropic effect and vasoconstriction response on coronary bed. In papillary muscle, Sp-CTx (10(-7) M) also produced an increase in contractile isometric force, which was attenuated by the catecholamine releasing agent tyramine (100 μM) and the β-adrenergic antagonist propranolol (10 μM). On isolated ventricular cardiomyocytes Sp-CTx (1 nM) increased the L-type Ca(2+) current density. The results show that Sp-CTx induces disorders in the cardiovascular system through increase of sarcolemmal calcium influx, which in turn is partially caused by the release of endogenous noradrenaline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena L Gomes
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Thiago N Menezes
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Pedro F Malacarne
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Danilo Roman-Campos
- Departamento de Biofísica, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Antonio N Gondim
- Departamento de Educação, Universidade do Estado da Bahia, Guanambi, BA, Brazil
| | - Jader S Cruz
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Dalton V Vassallo
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | - Suely G Figueiredo
- Departamento de Ciências Fisiológicas, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil.
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Ziegman R, Alewood P. Bioactive components in fish venoms. Toxins (Basel) 2015; 7:1497-531. [PMID: 25941767 PMCID: PMC4448160 DOI: 10.3390/toxins7051497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Revised: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal venoms are widely recognized excellent resources for the discovery of novel drug leads and physiological tools. Most are comprised of a large number of components, of which the enzymes, small peptides, and proteins are studied for their important bioactivities. However, in spite of there being over 2000 venomous fish species, piscine venoms have been relatively underrepresented in the literature thus far. Most studies have explored whole or partially fractioned venom, revealing broad pharmacology, which includes cardiovascular, neuromuscular, cytotoxic, inflammatory, and nociceptive activities. Several large proteinaceous toxins, such as stonustoxin, verrucotoxin, and Sp-CTx, have been isolated from scorpaenoid fish. These form pores in cell membranes, resulting in cell death and creating a cascade of reactions that result in many, but not all, of the physiological symptoms observed from envenomation. Additionally, Natterins, a novel family of toxins possessing kininogenase activity have been found in toadfish venom. A variety of smaller protein toxins, as well as a small number of peptides, enzymes, and non-proteinaceous molecules have also been isolated from a range of fish venoms, but most remain poorly characterized. Many other bioactive fish venom components remain to be discovered and investigated. These represent an untapped treasure of potentially useful molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah Ziegman
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Paul Alewood
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, the University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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Costa FLS, Lima MED, Pimenta AC, Figueiredo SG, Kalapothakis E, Salas CE. Expressed sequence tags in venomous tissue of Scorpaena plumieri (Scorpaeniformes: Scorpaenidae). NEOTROPICAL ICHTHYOLOGY 2014. [DOI: 10.1590/1982-0224-20130149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Species of the family Scorpaenidae are responsible for accidents and sporadic casualties by the shore they inhabit. The species Scorpaena plumierifrom this family populate the Northeastern and Eastern coast of Brazil causing human envenomation characterized by local and systemic symptoms. In experimental animals the venom induces cardiotoxic, hypotensive, and airway respiratory effects. As first step to identify the venom components we isolated gland mRNA to produce a cDNA library from the fish gland. This report describes the partial sequencing of 356 gland transcripts from S. plumieri. BLAST analysis of transcripts showed that 30% were unknown sequences, 17% hypothetical proteins, 17% related to metabolic enzymes, 14% belonged to signal transducing functions and the remaining groups (7-8%) composed by gene related with expressing proteins, regulatory proteins and structural proteins. A considerable number of these EST were not found in available databases suggesting the existence of new proteins and/or functions yet to be discovered. By screening the library with antibodies against a lectin fraction from S. plumierivenom we identified several clones whose DNA sequence showed similarities with lectins found in fish. In silicoanalysis of these clones confirm the identity of these molecules in the venom gland of S. plumieri.
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Chuang PS, Shiao JC. Toxin gene determination and evolution in scorpaenoid fish. Toxicon 2014; 88:21-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2014.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2014] [Revised: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 06/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Gomes HL, Andrich F, Fortes-Dias CL, Perales J, Teixeira-Ferreira A, Vassallo DV, Cruz JS, Figueiredo SG. Molecular and biochemical characterization of a cytolysin from the Scorpaena plumieri (scorpionfish) venom: Evidence of pore formation on erythrocyte cell membrane. Toxicon 2013; 74:92-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2013] [Revised: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Abstract
Venoms and toxins are of significant interest due to their ability to cause a wide range of pathophysiological conditions that can potentially result in death. Despite their wide distribution among plants and animals, the biochemical pathways associated with these pathogenic agents remain largely unexplored. Impoverished and underdeveloped regions appear especially susceptible to increased incidence and severity due to poor socioeconomic conditions and lack of appropriate medical treatment infrastructure. To facilitate better management and treatment of envenomation victims, it is essential that the biochemical mechanisms of their action be elucidated. This review aims to characterize downstream envenomation mechanisms by addressing the major neuro-, cardio-, and hemotoxins as well as ion-channel toxins. Because of their use in folk and traditional medicine, the biochemistry behind venom therapy and possible implications on conventional medicine will also be addressed.
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Menezes TN, Carnielli JB, Gomes HL, Pereira FE, Lemos EM, Bissoli NS, Lopes-Ferreira M, Andrich F, Figueiredo SG. Local inflammatory response induced by scorpionfish Scorpaena plumieri venom in mice. Toxicon 2012; 60:4-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2012.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2011] [Revised: 02/17/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Stonefish antivenom neutralises the inflammatory and cardiovascular effects induced by scorpionfish Scorpaena plumieri venom. Toxicon 2011; 57:992-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2011.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2010] [Revised: 03/25/2011] [Accepted: 04/05/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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