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Freuville L, Matthys C, Quinton L, Gillet JP. Venom-derived peptides for breaking through the glass ceiling of drug development. Front Chem 2024; 12:1465459. [PMID: 39398192 PMCID: PMC11468230 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1465459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Venoms are complex mixtures produced by animals and consist of hundreds of components including small molecules, peptides, and enzymes selected for effectiveness and efficacy over millions of years of evolution. With the development of venomics, which combines genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics to study animal venoms and their effects deeply, researchers have identified molecules that selectively and effectively act against membrane targets, such as ion channels and G protein-coupled receptors. Due to their remarkable physico-chemical properties, these molecules represent a credible source of new lead compounds. Today, not less than 11 approved venom-derived drugs are on the market. In this review, we aimed to highlight the advances in the use of venom peptides in the treatment of diseases such as neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, or cancer. We report on the origin and activity of the peptides already approved and provide a comprehensive overview of those still in development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lou Freuville
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Chloé Matthys
- Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Biology, URPhyM, NARILIS, University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - Loïc Quinton
- Laboratory of Mass Spectrometry, MolSys Research Unit, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Jean-Pierre Gillet
- Laboratory of Molecular Cancer Biology, URPhyM, NARILIS, University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
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2
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Guo R, Guo G, Wang A, Xu G, Lai R, Jin H. Spider-Venom Peptides: Structure, Bioactivity, Strategy, and Research Applications. Molecules 2023; 29:35. [PMID: 38202621 PMCID: PMC10779620 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29010035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Spiders (Araneae), having thrived for over 300 million years, exhibit remarkable diversity, with 47,000 described species and an estimated 150,000 species in existence. Evolving with intricate venom, spiders are nature's skilled predators. While only a small fraction of spiders pose a threat to humans, their venoms contain complex compounds, holding promise as drug leads. Spider venoms primarily serve to immobilize prey, achieved through neurotoxins targeting ion channels. Peptides constitute a major part of these venoms, displaying diverse pharmacological activities, and making them appealing for drug development. Moreover, spider-venom peptides have emerged as valuable tools for exploring human disease mechanisms. This review focuses on the roles of spider-venom peptides in spider survival strategies and their dual significance as pharmaceutical research tools. By integrating recent discoveries, it provides a comprehensive overview of these peptides, their targets, bioactivities, and their relevance in spider survival and medical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyin Guo
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (R.G.)
| | - Gang Guo
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (Yunnan Cancer Hospital), Kunming 650118, China;
| | - Aili Wang
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (R.G.)
| | - Gaochi Xu
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (R.G.)
| | - Ren Lai
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (R.G.)
- Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming-Primate Research Center, National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Sino-African Joint Research Center and Engineering Laboratory of Peptides, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming 650107, China
| | - Hui Jin
- Center for Evolution and Conservation Biology, Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory (Guangzhou), Guangzhou 511458, China; (R.G.)
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3
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Lopez SMM, Aguilar JS, Fernandez JBB, Lao AGJ, Estrella MRR, Devanadera MKP, Ramones CMV, Villaraza AJL, Guevarra LA, Santiago-Bautista MR, Santiago LA. Neuroactive venom compounds obtained from Phlogiellus bundokalbo as potential leads for neurodegenerative diseases: insights on their acetylcholinesterase and beta-secretase inhibitory activities in vitro. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210009. [PMID: 34249120 PMCID: PMC8237997 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Spider venom is a rich cocktail of neuroactive compounds designed to prey capture and defense against predators that act on neuronal membrane proteins, in particular, acetylcholinesterases (AChE) that regulate synaptic transmission through acetylcholine (ACh) hydrolysis - an excitatory neurotransmitter - and beta-secretases (BACE) that primarily cleave amyloid precursor proteins (APP), which are, in turn, relevant in the structural integrity of neurons. The present study provides preliminary evidence on the therapeutic potential of Phlogiellus bundokalbo venom against neurodegenerative diseases. Methods Spider venom was extracted by electrostimulation and fractionated by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) and characterized by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). Neuroactivity of the whole venom was observed by a neurobehavioral response from Terebrio molitor larvae in vivo and fractions were screened for their inhibitory activities against AChE and BACE in vitro. Results The whole venom from P. bundokalbo demonstrated neuroactivity by inducing excitatory movements from T. molitor for 15 min. Sixteen fractions collected produced diverse mass fragments from MALDI-TOF-MS ranging from 900-4500 Da. Eleven of sixteen fractions demonstrated AChE inhibitory activities with 14.34% (± 2.60e-4) to 62.05% (± 6.40e-5) compared with donepezil which has 86.34% (± 3.90e-5) inhibition (p > 0.05), while none of the fractions were observed to exhibit BACE inhibition. Furthermore, three potent fractions against AChE, F1, F3, and F16 displayed competitive and uncompetitive inhibitions compared to donepezil as the positive control. Conclusion The venom of P. bundokalbo contains compounds that demonstrate neuroactivity and anti-AChE activities in vitro, which could comprise possible therapeutic leads for the development of cholinergic compounds against neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Miguel M Lopez
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines, 1101
| | - Jeremey S Aguilar
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008
| | - Jerene Bashia B Fernandez
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008
| | - Angelic Gayle J Lao
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015.,The Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015.,Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines, 1101
| | - Mitzi Rain R Estrella
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008
| | - Mark Kevin P Devanadera
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015.,The Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015
| | - Cydee Marie V Ramones
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines, 1101
| | - Aaron Joseph L Villaraza
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines, 1101
| | - Leonardo A Guevarra
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015
| | - Myla R Santiago-Bautista
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015.,The Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015
| | - Librado A Santiago
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1008.,Research Center for Natural and Applied Sciences, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015.,The Graduate School, University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines, 1015
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de Araújo Boleti AP, de Oliveira Flores TM, Moreno SE, Anjos LD, Mortari MR, Migliolo L. Neuroinflammation: An overview of neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases and of biotechnological studies. Neurochem Int 2020; 136:104714. [PMID: 32165170 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2020.104714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is an important factor contributing to cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), ischemic injury, and multiple sclerosis (MS). These diseases are characterized by inexorable progressive injury of neuron cells, and loss of motor or cognitive functions. Microglia, which are the resident macrophages in the brain, play an important role in both physiological and pathological conditions. In this review, we provide an updated discussion on the role of ROS and metabolic disease in the pathological mechanisms of activation of the microglial cells and release of cytotoxins, leading to the neurodegenerative process. In addition, we also discuss in vivo models, such as zebrafish and Caenorhabditis elegans, and provide new insights into therapeutics bioinspired by neuropeptides from venomous animals, supporting high throughput drug screening in the near future, searching for a complementary approach to elucidating crucial mechanisms associated with neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula de Araújo Boleti
- S-InovaBiotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, 79117-900, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Taylla Michelle de Oliveira Flores
- S-InovaBiotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, 79117-900, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Susana Elisa Moreno
- S-InovaBiotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, 79117-900, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil
| | - Lilian Dos Anjos
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departmento Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brazil
| | - Márcia Renata Mortari
- Laboratório de Neurofarmacologia, Departmento Ciências Fisiológicas, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de Brasília, Brazil
| | - Ludovico Migliolo
- S-InovaBiotech, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Católica Dom Bosco, 79117-900, Campo Grande, MS, Brazil; Programa de Pós-graduação em Biologia Celular e Molecular, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil; Programa de Pós-graduação em Bioquímica, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brazil.
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5
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Yan W, Zhang M, Yu Y, Yi X, Guo T, Hu H, Sun Q, Chen M, Xiong H, Chen L. Blockade of voltage-gated potassium channels ameliorates diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction in vivo and in vitro. Exp Neurol 2019; 320:112988. [PMID: 31254519 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.112988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channel blockers tetraethylammonium (TEA) and 4-aminopyridine (4-AP) have shown beneficial effects on some neurological disorders. But their involvements in diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction are still unknown. The present study aims to investigate whether the blockade of Kv channels by TEA and 4-AP alleviate cognitive decline in diabetes. In vivo, the effects of TEA and 4-AP (5 mg/kg body weight per day, 1 mg/kg body weight per day intraperitoneal injected for 4 weeks, respectively) were investigated in streptozotocin-induced C57BL/6 diabetic mice. In vitro study, we investigated the effects of TEA and 4-AP on the high glucose (HG) -stimulated primary cortical neurons. The results showed that TEA and 4-AP ameliorated the cognitive decline of diabetic mice in the Morris water maze test, improved the ultrastructure of pancreatic β cells, hippocampal neurons and synapses, decreased oxidative stress, modulated apoptosis-related proteins, and activated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/ Protein kinase-B (PKB or Akt) signaling pathway. In the HG-stimulated primary cultured cortical neurons, TEA and 4-AP increased the cell viability, decreased oxidative stress; prevented apoptosis and activated PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Additionally, the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 partially abolished the effects of TEA and 4-AP. These findings indicate that the blockade of Kv channels by TEA and 4-AP ameliorates the diabetes-associated cognitive dysfunction via PI3K/Akt pathway, suggesting that targeting Kv channels could be a promising strategy for the treatments of cognitive impairments in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhui Yan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ye Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xinyao Yi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tingli Guo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qiang Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Mingxia Chen
- Electron Microscopy Room, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Huangui Xiong
- Neurophysiology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5880, USA.
| | - Lina Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China; Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases (Xi'an Jiaotong University), Ministry of Education, Xi'an 710061, Shaanxi, China.
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6
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Saez NJ, Herzig V. Versatile spider venom peptides and their medical and agricultural applications. Toxicon 2018; 158:109-126. [PMID: 30543821 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2018.11.298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Spiders have been evolving complex and diverse repertoires of peptides in their venoms with vast pharmacological activities for more than 300 million years. Spiders use their venoms for prey capture and defense, hence they contain peptides that target both prey (mainly arthropods) and predators (other arthropods or vertebrates). This includes peptides that potently and selectively modulate a range of targets such as ion channels, receptors and signaling pathways involved in physiological processes. The contribution of these targets in particular disease pathophysiologies makes spider venoms a valuable source of peptides with potential therapeutic use. In addition, peptides with insecticidal activities, used for prey capture, can be exploited for the development of novel bioinsecticides for agricultural use. Although we have already reviewed potential applications of spider venom peptides as therapeutics (in 2010) and as bioinsecticides (in 2012), a considerable number of research articles on both topics have been published since, warranting an updated review. Here we explore the most recent research on the use of spider venom peptides for both medical and agricultural applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie J Saez
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
| | - Volker Herzig
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
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Coppi E, Lana D, Cherchi F, Fusco I, Buonvicino D, Urru M, Ranieri G, Muzzi M, Iovino L, Giovannini MG, Pugliese AM, Chiarugi A. Dexpramipexole enhances hippocampal synaptic plasticity and memory in the rat. Neuropharmacology 2018; 143:306-316. [PMID: 30291939 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Even though pharmacological approaches able to counteract age-dependent cognitive impairment have been highly investigated, drugs improving cognition and memory are still an unmet need. It has been hypothesized that sustaining energy dynamics within the aged hippocampus can boost memory storage by sustaining synaptic functioning and long term potentiation (LTP). Dexpramipexole (DEX) is the first-in-class compound able to sustain neuronal bioenergetics by interacting with mitochondrial F1Fo-ATP synthase. In the present study, for the first time we evaluated the effects of DEX on synaptic fatigue, LTP induction, learning and memory retention. We report that DEX improved LTP maintenance in CA1 neurons of acute hippocampal slices from aged but not young rats. However, we found no evidence that DEX counteracted two classic parameters of synaptic fatigue such as fEPSP reduction or the train area during the high frequency stimulation adopted to induce LTP. Interestingly, patch-clamp recordings in rat hippocampal neurons revealed that DEX dose-dependently inhibited (IC50 814 nM) the IA current, a rapidly-inactivating K+ current that negatively regulates neuronal excitability as well as cognition and memory processes. In keeping with this, DEX counteracted both scopolamine-induced spatial memory loss in rats challenged in Morris Water Maze test and memory retention in rats undergoing Novel Object Recognition. Overall, the present study discloses the ability of DEX to boost hippocampal synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. In light of the good safety profile of DEX in humans, our findings may have a realistic translational potential to treatment of cognitive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Coppi
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Italy.
| | - Daniele Lana
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Federica Cherchi
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Irene Fusco
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Daniela Buonvicino
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Matteo Urru
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ranieri
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Mirko Muzzi
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Ludovica Iovino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Section of Physiological Sciences, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Giovannini
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Pugliese
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Alberto Chiarugi
- Department of Health Sciences, Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology, University of Florence, Italy
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The Involvement of NLRP3 on the Effects of Minocycline in an AD-Like Pathology Induced by β-Amyloid Oligomers Administered to Mice. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 56:2606-2617. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-1211-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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9
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de Souza JM, Goncalves BDC, Gomez MV, Vieira LB, Ribeiro FM. Animal Toxins as Therapeutic Tools to Treat Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:145. [PMID: 29527170 PMCID: PMC5829052 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative diseases affect millions of individuals worldwide. So far, no disease-modifying drug is available to treat patients, making the search for effective drugs an urgent need. Neurodegeneration is triggered by the activation of several cellular processes, including oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairment, neuroinflammation, aging, aggregate formation, glutamatergic excitotoxicity, and apoptosis. Therefore, many research groups aim to identify drugs that may inhibit one or more of these events leading to neuronal cell death. Venoms are fruitful natural sources of new molecules, which have been relentlessly enhanced by evolution through natural selection. Several studies indicate that venom components can exhibit selectivity and affinity for a wide variety of targets in mammalian systems. For instance, an expressive number of natural peptides identified in venoms from animals, such as snakes, scorpions, bees, and spiders, were shown to lessen inflammation, regulate glutamate release, modify neurotransmitter levels, block ion channel activation, decrease the number of protein aggregates, and increase the levels of neuroprotective factors. Thus, these venom components hold potential as therapeutic tools to slow or even halt neurodegeneration. However, there are many technological issues to overcome, as venom peptides are hard to obtain and characterize and the amount obtained from natural sources is insufficient to perform all the necessary experiments and tests. Fortunately, technological improvements regarding heterologous protein expression, as well as peptide chemical synthesis will help to provide enough quantities and allow chemical and pharmacological enhancements of these natural occurring compounds. Thus, the main focus of this review is to highlight the most promising studies evaluating animal toxins as therapeutic tools to treat a wide variety of neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, brain ischemia, glaucoma, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M. de Souza
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Bruno D. C. Goncalves
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marcus V. Gomez
- Department of Neurotransmitters, Instituto de Ensino e Pesquisa Santa Casa, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luciene B. Vieira
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fabiola M. Ribeiro
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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10
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Camargo LC, Campos GAA, Galante P, Biolchi AM, Gonçalves JC, Lopes KS, Mortari MR. Peptides isolated from animal venom as a platform for new therapeutics for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Neuropeptides 2018; 67:79-86. [PMID: 29198480 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that deeply affects patients, their family and society. Although scientists have made intense efforts in seeking the cure for AD, no drug available today is able to stop AD progression. In this context, compounds isolated from animal venom are potentially successful drugs for neuroprotection, since they selectively bind to nervous system targets. In this review, we presented different studies using peptides isolated from animal venom for the treatment of AD. This is a growing field that will be very helpful in understanding and even curing neurodegenerative diseases, especially AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Camargo
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - G A A Campos
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - P Galante
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - A M Biolchi
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - J C Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - K S Lopes
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - M R Mortari
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil.
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11
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Garcez ML, Mina F, Bellettini-Santos T, Carneiro FG, Luz AP, Schiavo GL, Andrighetti MS, Scheid MG, Bolfe RP, Budni J. Minocycline reduces inflammatory parameters in the brain structures and serum and reverses memory impairment caused by the administration of amyloid β (1-42) in mice. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2017; 77:23-31. [PMID: 28336494 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2017.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder and the most common type of age-related dementia. Cognitive decline, beta-amyloid (Aβ) accumulation, neurofibrillary tangles, and neuroinflammation are the main pathophysiological characteristics of AD. Minocycline is a tetracycline derivative with anti-inflammatory properties that has a neuroprotective effect. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of minocycline on memory, neurotrophins and neuroinflammation in an animal model of AD induced by the administration of Aβ (1-42) oligomer. Male BALB/c mice were treated with minocycline (50mg/kg) via the oral route for a total of 17days, 24h after intracerebroventricular administration of Aβ (1-42) oligomer. At the end of this period, was performed the radial maze test, and 24h after the last minocycline administration, serum was collected and the cortex and hippocampus were dissected for biochemical analysis. The administration of minocycline reversed the memory impairment caused by Aβ (1-42). In the hippocampus, minocycline reversed the increases in the levels of interleukin (IL-1β), Tumor Necrosis Factor- alpha (TNF-α) and, IL-10 caused by Aβ (1-42). In the cortex, AD-like model increase the levels of IL-1β, TNF-α and, IL-4. Minocycline treatment reversed this. In the serum, Aβ (1-42) increased the levels of IL-1β and IL-4, and minocycline was able to reverse this action, but not to reverse the decrease of IL-10 levels. Minocycline also reversed the increase in the levels of Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus caused by Aβ (1-42), and reduced Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) increases in the total cortex. Therefore, our results indicate that minocycline causes improvements in the spatial memory, and cytokine levels were correlated with this effect in the brain it. Besides this, minocycline reduced BDNF and NGF levels, highlighting the promising effects of minocycline in treating AD-like dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Lima Garcez
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil,; Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Francielle Mina
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil,; Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Tatiani Bellettini-Santos
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil,; Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Franciellen Gonçalves Carneiro
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil,; Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Aline Pereira Luz
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil,; Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Luis Schiavo
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil,; Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Matheus Scopel Andrighetti
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil,; Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Maylton Grégori Scheid
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil,; Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Renan Pereira Bolfe
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil,; Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Josiane Budni
- Laboratory of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil,; Laboratory of Neuroscience, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Academic Unit of Health Sciences, Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brazil..
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Monge-Fuentes V, Gomes FMM, Campos GAA, Silva JDC, Biolchi AM, Dos Anjos LC, Gonçalves JC, Lopes KS, Mortari MR. Neuroactive compounds obtained from arthropod venoms as new therapeutic platforms for the treatment of neurological disorders. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2015; 21:31. [PMID: 26257776 PMCID: PMC4529710 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-015-0031-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The impact of neurological disorders in society is growing with alarming estimations for an incidence increase in the next decades. These disorders are generally chronic and can affect individuals early during productive life, imposing real limitations on the performance of their social roles. Patients can have their independence, autonomy, freedom, self-image, and self-confidence affected. In spite of their availability, drugs for the treatment of these disorders are commonly associated with side effects, which can vary in frequency and severity. Currently, no effective cure is known. Nowadays, the biopharmaceutical research community widely recognizes arthropod venoms as a rich source of bioactive compounds, providing a plethora of possibilities for the discovery of new neuroactive compounds, opening up novel and attractive opportunities in this field. Several identified molecules with a neuropharmacological profile can act in the central nervous system on different neuronal targets, rendering them useful tools for the study of neurological disorders. In this context, this review aims to describe the current main compounds extracted from arthropod venoms for the treatment of five major existing neurological disorders: stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and pathological anxiety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Monge-Fuentes
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, DF CEP 70.910-900, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Flávia Maria Medeiros Gomes
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, DF CEP 70.910-900, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Avohay Alves Campos
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, DF CEP 70.910-900, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Juliana de Castro Silva
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, DF CEP 70.910-900, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Andréia Mayer Biolchi
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, DF CEP 70.910-900, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Lilian Carneiro Dos Anjos
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, DF CEP 70.910-900, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Jacqueline Coimbra Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, DF CEP 70.910-900, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Kamila Soares Lopes
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, DF CEP 70.910-900, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Márcia Renata Mortari
- Laboratory of Neuropharmacology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, DF CEP 70.910-900, Brasília, Brazil
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Assessment of disease-related cognitive impairments using the novel object recognition (NOR) task in rodents. Behav Brain Res 2015; 285:176-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2014.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 10/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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14
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Kv4 channel blockade reduces motor and neuropsychiatric symptoms in rodent models of Parkinson’s disease. Behav Pharmacol 2015; 26:91-100. [DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Vargas LS, Lara MVS, Gonçalves R, Mandredini V, Ponce-Soto LA, Marangoni S, Dal Belo CA, Mello-Carpes PB. The intrahippocampal infusion of crotamine from Crotalus durissus terrificus venom enhances memory persistence in rats. Toxicon 2014; 85:52-8. [PMID: 24813333 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2014.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2014] [Revised: 04/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Previous research has shown that crotamine, a toxin isolated from the venom of Crotalus durissus terrificus, induces the release of acetylcholine and dopamine in the central nervous system of rats. Particularly, these neurotransmitters are important modulators of memory processes. Therefore, in this study we investigated the effects of crotamine infusion on persistence of memory in rats. We verified that the intrahippocampal infusion of crotamine (1 μg/μl; 1 μl/side) improved the persistence of object recognition and aversive memory. By other side, the intrahippocampal infusion of the toxin did not alter locomotor and exploratory activities, anxiety or pain threshold. These results demonstrate a future prospect of using crotamine as potential pharmacological tool to treat diseases involving memory impairment, although it is still necessary more researches to better elucidate the crotamine effects on hippocampus and memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liane S Vargas
- Physiology Research Group, Federal University of Pampa (UNIPAMPA), Campus Uruguaiana, P.O. Box 118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Marcus V S Lara
- Physiology Research Group, Federal University of Pampa (UNIPAMPA), Campus Uruguaiana, P.O. Box 118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Rithiele Gonçalves
- Physiology Research Group, Federal University of Pampa (UNIPAMPA), Campus Uruguaiana, P.O. Box 118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Vanusa Mandredini
- Physiology Research Group, Federal University of Pampa (UNIPAMPA), Campus Uruguaiana, P.O. Box 118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil
| | - Luis Alberto Ponce-Soto
- LAQUIP, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), P.O. Box 6109, 13083-970 Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Sergio Marangoni
- LAQUIP, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), P.O. Box 6109, 13083-970 Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Cháriston A Dal Belo
- CIPBIOTEC, Federal University of Pampa (UNIPAMPA), Campus São Gabriel, 97300-000 São Gabriel, RS, Brazil
| | - Pâmela B Mello-Carpes
- Physiology Research Group, Federal University of Pampa (UNIPAMPA), Campus Uruguaiana, P.O. Box 118, 97500-970 Uruguaiana, RS, Brazil.
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