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de Melo Cardoso M, Scussel R, da Silva Abel J, Pereira FO, Cruz LA, da Costa Constante F, De Pieri E, Abelaira HM, Ferreira J, Gomez MV, Rigo FK, Machado-de-Ávila RA. Intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1β: Antinociceptive properties and morphine tolerance reversal in a cancer-associated pain model. Toxicon 2024; 243:107717. [PMID: 38614245 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2024.107717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-related pain is considered one of the most prevalent symptoms for those affected by cancer, significantly influencing quality of life and treatment outcomes. Morphine is currently employed for analgesic treatment in this case, however, chronic use of this opioid is limited by the development of analgesic tolerance and adverse effects, such as digestive and neurological disorders. Alternative therapies, such as ion channel blockade, are explored. The toxin Phα1β has demonstrated efficacy in blocking calcium channels, making it a potential candidate for alleviating cancer-related pain. This study aims to assess the antinociceptive effects resulting from intravenous administration of the recombinant form of Phα1β (r-Phα1β) in an experimental model of cancer-related pain in mice, tolerant or not to morphine. The model of cancer-induced pain was used to evaluate these effects, with the injection of B16F10 cells, followed by the administration of the r-Phα1β, and evaluation of the mechanical threshold by the von Frey test. Also, adverse effects were assessed using a score scale, the rotarod, and open field tests. Results indicate that the administration of r-Phα1β provoked antinociception in animals with cancer-induced mechanical hyperalgesia, with or without morphine tolerance. Previous administration of r-Phα1β was able to recover the analgesic activity of morphine in animals tolerant to this opioid. r-Phα1β was proved safe for these parameters, as no adverse effects related to motor and behavioral activity were observed following intravenous administration. This study suggests that the concomitant use of morphine and r-Phα1β could be a viable strategy for pain modulation in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana de Melo Cardoso
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathophysiology, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, 30130-100, MG, Brazil
| | - Rahisa Scussel
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathophysiology, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Jéssica da Silva Abel
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathophysiology, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Fernando Oriques Pereira
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathophysiology, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Lidiane Anastácio Cruz
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathophysiology, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Franciane da Costa Constante
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathophysiology, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Ellen De Pieri
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathophysiology, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Helena Mendes Abelaira
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathophysiology, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Juliano Ferreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Marcus Vinícius Gomez
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil; Center of Technology in Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Flávia Karine Rigo
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathophysiology, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Andrez Machado-de-Ávila
- Laboratory of Experimental Pathophysiology, Postgraduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South Catarinense (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil.
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Pereira AFM, Cavalcante JS, Angstmam DG, Almeida C, Soares GS, Pucca MB, Ferreira Junior RS. Unveiling the Pain Relief Potential: Harnessing Analgesic Peptides from Animal Venoms. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2766. [PMID: 38140106 PMCID: PMC10748172 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15122766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The concept of pain encompasses a complex interplay of sensory and emotional experiences associated with actual or potential tissue damage. Accurately describing and localizing pain, whether acute or chronic, mild or severe, poses a challenge due to its diverse manifestations. Understanding the underlying origins and mechanisms of these pain variations is crucial for effective management and pharmacological interventions. Derived from a wide spectrum of species, including snakes, arthropods, mollusks, and vertebrates, animal venoms have emerged as abundant repositories of potential biomolecules exhibiting analgesic properties across a broad spectrum of pain models. This review focuses on highlighting the most promising venom-derived toxins investigated as potential prototypes for analgesic drugs. The discussion further encompasses research prospects, challenges in advancing analgesics, and the practical application of venom-derived toxins. As the field continues its evolution, tapping into the latent potential of these natural bioactive compounds holds the key to pioneering approaches in pain management and treatment. Therefore, animal toxins present countless possibilities for treating pain caused by different diseases. The development of new analgesic drugs from toxins is one of the directions that therapy must follow, and it seems to be moving forward by recommending the composition of multimodal therapy to combat pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Flávia Marques Pereira
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil;
| | - Joeliton S. Cavalcante
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil; (J.S.C.); (D.G.A.)
| | - Davi Gomes Angstmam
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil; (J.S.C.); (D.G.A.)
| | - Cayo Almeida
- Center of Mathematics, Computing Sciences and Cognition, Federal University of ABC, Santo André 09280-560, SP, Brazil;
| | - Gean S. Soares
- Delphina Rinaldi Abdel Azil Hospital and Emergency Room (HPSDRAA), Manaus 69093-415, AM, Brazil;
| | - Manuela B. Pucca
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University, Araraquara 14801-320, SP, Brazil;
| | - Rui Seabra Ferreira Junior
- Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil;
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil; (J.S.C.); (D.G.A.)
- Center for Translational Science and Development of Biopharmaceuticals FAPESP/CEVAP, São Paulo State University (UNESP—Univ Estadual Paulista), Botucatu 01419-901, SP, Brazil
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Trevisan G, Oliveira SM. Animal Venom Peptides Cause Antinociceptive Effects by Voltage-gated Calcium Channels Activity Blockage. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:1579-1599. [PMID: 34259147 PMCID: PMC9881091 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210713121217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is a complex phenomenon that is usually unpleasant and aversive. It can range widely in intensity, quality, and duration and has diverse pathophysiologic mechanisms and meanings. Voltage-gated sodium and calcium channels are essential to transmitting painful stimuli from the periphery until the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Thus, blocking voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) can effectively control pain refractory to treatments currently used in the clinic, such as cancer and neuropathic pain. VGCCs blockers isolated of cobra Naja naja kaouthia (α-cobratoxin), spider Agelenopsis aperta (ω-Agatoxin IVA), spider Phoneutria nigriventer (PhTx3.3, PhTx3.4, PhTx3.5, PhTx3.6), spider Hysterocrates gigas (SNX-482), cone snails Conus geographus (GVIA), Conus magus (MVIIA or ziconotide), Conus catus (CVID, CVIE and CVIF), Conus striatus (SO- 3), Conus fulmen (FVIA), Conus moncuri (MoVIA and MoVIB), Conus regularis (RsXXIVA), Conus eburneus (Eu1.6), Conus victoriae (Vc1.1.), Conus regius (RgIA), and spider Ornithoctonus huwena (huwentoxin-I and huwentoxin-XVI) venoms caused antinociceptive effects in different acute and chronic pain models. Currently, ziconotide is the only clinical used N-type VGCCs blocker peptide for chronic intractable pain. However, ziconotide causes different adverse effects, and the intrathecal route of administration also impairs its use in a more significant number of patients. In this sense, peptides isolated from animal venoms or their synthetic forms that act by modulating or blocking VGCCs channels seem to be a relevant prototype for developing new analgesics efficacious and well tolerated by patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Trevisan
- Graduated Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil; ,Address correspondence to these authors at the Graduated Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Avenida Roraima, 1000, building 21, room 5207, Zip code: 97105-900 Santa Maria (RS), Brazil; E-mails: , and Graduated Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Avenida Roraima, 1000, building 18, room 2203, Zip code: 97105-900 Santa Maria (RS), Brazil;, E-mail:
| | - Sara Marchesan Oliveira
- Graduated Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil,Address correspondence to these authors at the Graduated Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Avenida Roraima, 1000, building 21, room 5207, Zip code: 97105-900 Santa Maria (RS), Brazil; E-mails: , and Graduated Program in Biological Sciences: Toxicological Biochemistry, Federal University of Santa Maria (UFSM), Avenida Roraima, 1000, building 18, room 2203, Zip code: 97105-900 Santa Maria (RS), Brazil;, E-mail:
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Systemic, Intrathecal, and Intracerebroventricular Antihyperalgesic Effects of the Calcium Channel Blocker CTK 01512–2 Toxin in Persistent Pain Models. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:4436-4452. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02864-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Joviano-Santos JV, Valadão PAC, Magalhães-Gomes MPS, Fernandes LF, Diniz DM, Machado TCG, Soares KB, Ladeira MS, Massensini AR, Gomez MV, Miranda AS, Tápia JC, Guatimosim C. Neuroprotective effect of CTK 01512-2 recombinant toxin at the spinal cord in a model of Huntington's disease. Exp Physiol 2022; 107:933-945. [PMID: 35478205 DOI: 10.1113/ep090327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? We investigated the action of intrathecal administration of a novel toxin (CTK01512-2) in a mouse model for Huntington´s disease (HD). We asked if spinal cord neurons can represent a therapeutic target, as the spinal cord seems to be involved in HD motor-symptoms. Pharmacological approaches focusing on the spinal cord and skeletal muscles might represent a more feasible strategy. What is the main finding and its importance? We provided evidence of a novel, local, neuroprotector effect of CTK01512-2, paving a path for the development of approaches to treat HD-motor symptoms beyond the brain. ABSTRACT Phα1β is a neurotoxin from the venom of the Phoneutria nigriventer spider, available as CTK01512-2, a recombinant peptide. Due to its antinociceptive and analgesic properties, CTK01512-2 has been described to alleviate neuroinflammatory responses. Despite the diverse CTK01512-2 actions on the nervous system, little is known regarding its neuroprotective effect, especially in neurodegenerative conditions such as Huntington's disease (HD), a genetic movement disorder without cure. Here, we investigated whether CTK01512-2 has a neuroprotector effect in a mouse model of HD. We hypothesized that spinal cord neurons might represent a therapeutic target, as the spinal cord seems to be involved in the motor-symptoms of HD mice (BACHD). Then, we treated BACHD mice with CTK01512-2 by intrathecal injection, and performed in vivo motor behavior and morphological analyses in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and muscles. Our data showed that intrathecal injection of CTK01512-2 significantly improves motor-performance in the Open-field task. CTK01512-2 protects neurons in the spinal cord (but not in the brain) from death, suggesting a local effect. CTK01512-2 exerts its neuroprotective effect by inhibiting BACHD-neuronal apoptosis, as revealed by a reduction in caspase-3 in the spinal cord. CTK01512-2 was also able to revert BACHD muscle atrophy. In conclusion, our data provide a novel role for CTK01512-2 acting directly in the spinal cord, ameliorating morphofunctional aspects of spinal cord neurons, and muscles, and improving BACHD mice performance in motor-behavioral tests. Since HD shares similar symptoms to many neurodegenerative conditions, the findings presented herein may also be applicable to other disorders. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lorena F Fernandes
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | | | | | - Kivia B Soares
- Laboratório de Biologia da Neurotransmissão, Departamento de Morfologia
| | - Marina S Ladeira
- Laboratório de Biologia da Neurotransmissão, Departamento de Morfologia
| | - Andre R Massensini
- Núcleo de Neurociências, Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | | | - Aline S Miranda
- Laboratório de Neurobiologia, Departamento de Morfologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - Juan C Tápia
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad de Talca, Talca, Chile.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
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Phα1β is a Promising Neuroprotective Peptide from the Phoneutria nigriventer ‘Armed’ Spider. Int J Pept Res Ther 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10989-022-10381-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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7
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Kaczyńska K, Wojciechowski P. Non-Opioid Peptides Targeting Opioid Effects. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13619. [PMID: 34948415 PMCID: PMC8709238 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Opioids are the most potent widely used analgesics, primarily, but not exclusively, in palliative care. However, they are associated with numerous side effects, such as tolerance, addiction, respiratory depression, and cardiovascular events. This, in turn, can result in their overuse in cases of addiction, the need for dose escalation in cases of developing tolerance, and the emergence of dose-related opioid toxicity, resulting in respiratory depression or cardiovascular problems that can even lead to unintentional death. Therefore, a very important challenge for researchers is to look for ways to counteract the side effects of opioids. The use of peptides and their related compounds, which have been shown to modulate the effects of opioids, may provide such an opportunity. This short review is a compendium of knowledge about the most important and recent findings regarding selected peptides and their modulatory effects on various opioid actions, including cardiovascular and respiratory responses. In addition to the peptides more commonly reported in the literature in the context of their pro- and/or anti-opioid activity-such as neuropeptide FF (NPFF), cholecystokinin (CCK), and melanocyte inhibiting factor (MIF)-we also included in the review nociceptin/orphanin (N/OFQ), ghrelin, oxytocin, endothelin, and venom peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kaczyńska
- Department of Respiration Physiology, Mossakowski Medical Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawińskiego 5 St., 02-106 Warsaw, Poland;
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da Silva JF, Binda NS, Pereira EMR, de Lavor MSL, Vieira LB, de Souza AH, Rigo FK, Ferrer HT, de Castro CJ, Ferreira J, Gomez MV. Analgesic effects of Phα1β toxin: a review of mechanisms of action involving pain pathways. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210001. [PMID: 34868281 PMCID: PMC8610172 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Phα1β is a neurotoxin purified from spider venom that acts as a high-voltage-activated (HVA) calcium channel blocker. This spider peptide has shown a high selectivity for N-type HVA calcium channels (NVACC) and an analgesic effect in several animal models of pain. Its activity was associated with a reduction in calcium transients, glutamate release, and reactive oxygen species production from the spinal cord tissue and dorsal ganglia root (DRG) in rats and mice. It has been reported that intrathecal (i.t.) administration of Phα1β to treat chronic pain reverted opioid tolerance with a safer profile than ω-conotoxin MVIIA, a highly selective NVACC blocker. Following a recent development of recombinant Phα1β (CTK 01512-2), a new molecular target, TRPA1, the structural arrangement of disulphide bridges, and an effect on glial plasticity have been identified. CTK 01512-2 reproduced the antinociceptive effects of the native toxin not only after the intrathecal but also after the intravenous administration. Herein, we review the Phα1β antinociceptive activity in the most relevant pain models and its mechanisms of action, highlighting the impact of CTK 01512-2 synthesis and its potential for multimodal analgesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Figueira da Silva
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal
University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil
| | - Nancy Scardua Binda
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Federal
University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil
| | - Elizete Maria Rita Pereira
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and
Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Luciene Bruno Vieira
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences (ICB),
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Hubner de Souza
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and
Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Flávia Karine Rigo
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, University of the Extreme South
of Santa Catarina (UNESC), Criciúma, SC, Brazil
| | - Hèlia Tenza Ferrer
- Center of Technology in Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Célio José de Castro
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and
Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Juliano Ferreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Santa Catarina,
Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Marcus Vinicius Gomez
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and
Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Center of Technology in Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine,
Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Aoki CT, Moura RA, Ferreira LA, Mendes MG, Santos DC, Rezende MJ, Gomez MV, Castro-Junior CJ. Isobolographic analysis reveals antinociceptive synergism between Phα1β recombinant toxin and morphine in a model of cancer pain in C57BL/6J mice. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2021; 27:e20210027. [PMID: 34512739 PMCID: PMC8388195 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2021-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Phoneutria nigriventer venom contains Phα1β. This toxin and its recombinant form have a remarkable analgesic potential that is associated with blockage of voltage-gated calcium channels and TRPA1 receptors. Although morphine is a mainstay drug to treat moderate and severe pain related to cancer, it has serious and dose-limiting side effects. Combining recombinant Phα1β and morphine to treat pain is an interesting approach that has been gaining attention. Therefore, a quantitative and reliable method to establish the strength of the antinociceptive interaction between these two substances is necessary. The present study was designed to investigate the nature of the functional antinociceptive (analgesic) interaction between Phα1β recombinant toxin and morphine in a model of cancer pain. Methods: Melanoma was produced by intraplantar inoculation of B16-F10 cells into the right paw of C57BL/6J mice. Von Frey filaments measured the paw-withdrawal threshold after intrathecal administration of morphine, recombinant Phα1β, and their combination. Thermal hyperalgesia was assessed using Hargreaves apparatus. The degree of interaction was evaluated using isobolographic analysis. Spontaneous and forced motor performance was assessed with the open-field and rotarod tests, respectively. Results: Co-administration of recombinant Phα1β and morphine synergistically reverses the melanoma-induced mechanical hyperalgesia. The potency of the mixture, measured as the effective dose to reach 50% of maximum possible effect (MPE) in ameliorating mechanical hyperalgesia, was about twice fold higher than expected if the interaction between morphine and recombinant Phα1β was merely additive. Treatment with the combination at doses necessary to reach 50% of MPE caused no spontaneous nor forced motor alterations. Conclusion: The combinatorial use of recombinant Phα1β and morphine allows significant and effective dose reduction of both agents, which has translational potential for opioid-sparing approaches in pain management related to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Tavares Aoki
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Andrade Moura
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Luana Assis Ferreira
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Mariana Garcia Mendes
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Duana Carvalho Santos
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcio Junior Rezende
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcus Vinícius Gomez
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Célio José Castro-Junior
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Institute of Education and Research, Santa Casa de Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Effects of intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1β toxin in a mouse model of fibromyalgia. Toxicon 2021; 195:104-110. [PMID: 33753115 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2021.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of intravenous (iv) administration of recombinant Phα1β toxin, pregabalin, and diclofenac by the intrathecal route using an animal model fibromyalgia (FM). The reserpine administration (0.25 mg/kg s. c) once daily for three consecutive days significantly induced hyperalgesia, immobility time, and sucrose consumption in mice on the 4th day. Reserpine caused hyperalgesia on the mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia on the 4th day was reverted by recombinant Phα1β (0.2 mg/kg iv) and pregabalin (1.25 μmol/site i. t) treatments. In contrast, diclofenac (215 nmol/site i. t) was ineffective. Recombinant Phα1β toxin, pregabalin, and diclofenac did not affect the depressive-like behavioural effect induced by reserpine on mice during the forced swim and sucrose consumption tests. The data confirmed the analgesic effect of the recombinant Phα1β toxin administered intravenously in a fibromyalgia mouse model.
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Phα1β, a dual blocker of TRPA1 and Cav2.2, as an adjuvant drug in opioid therapy for postoperative pain. Toxicon 2020; 188:80-88. [PMID: 33038354 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Opioids are the "gold standard" treatment for postoperative pain, but these drugs also have limiting adverse effects. Thus, adjuvant drugs might be useful in opioid therapy for postoperative pain. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of Phα1β, a dual blocker of Cav2 and TRPA1 channels, on antinociceptive and adverse actions of morphine in a model of postoperative pain. Phα1β (100-300 pmol/site) or morphine (3-10 mg/kg), alone, largely reduced postoperative nociception. However, Phα1β (100 pmol/site) or morphine (10 mg/kg) also produced motor impairment. Lower doses of Phα1β (30 pmol/site) or morphine (1 mg/kg), that did not have an effect alone, showed antinociceptive effect when concomitantly administrated. Moreover, co-administration of Phα1β (30 pmol/site) with morphine (1 or 10 mg/kg) was unable to cause motor impairment. Preoperative repeated treatment with morphine increased the expression of Cav2 and TRPA1 channels in spinal cord, and caused tolerance and withdrawal syndrome, which were reversed with a single injection of Phα1β (30 pmol/site). When injected postoperatively, escalating doses of morphine worsened postoperative hyperalgesia, induced tolerance, and withdrawal syndrome. Similarly, Phα1β (30 pmol/site) reversed these adverse effects. Single or repeated morphine caused constipation, which was not altered by Phα1β. Thus, a low dose of Phα1β potentiated the analgesia, and reversed some adverse effects of morphine on operated mice, indicating the potential use of this agent as an adjuvant drug in opioid therapy for postoperative pain.
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Pain modulatory properties of Phoneutria nigriventer crude venom and derived peptides: A double-edged sword. Toxicon 2020; 185:120-128. [PMID: 32668276 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Phoneutria nigriventer venom (PNV) is a complex mixture of toxins exerting multiple pharmacological effects that ultimately result in severe local pain at the site of the bite. It has been proposed that the PNV-induced pain is mediated by both peripheral and central mechanisms. The nociception triggered by PNV is peripherally mediated by the activation of B2, 5-HT4, NMDA, AMPA, NK1, and NK2 receptors, as well as TTXS-Na+, ASIC, and TRPV1 channels. The activation of tachykinin, glutamate and CGRP receptors along with the production of inflammatory mediators are, at least partially, responsible for the central component of pain. Despite its well established pro-nociceptive properties, PNV contains some toxins with antinociceptive activity, which have been studied in the last few years. The toxins ω-CNTX-Pn4a, ω-CNTX-Pn2a, ω-CNTX-Pn3a, κ-CNTX-Pn1a, U7-CNTX-Pn1a, δ-CNTX-Pn1a, and Γ-CNTX-Pn1a from PNV, as well as the semi-synthetic peptide PnPP-19 have been tested in different experimental models of pain showing consistent antinociceptive properties. This review aims to discuss the pro- and antinociceptive actions of PNV and its toxins, highlighting possible mechanisms involved in these apparently dualistic properties.
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Cardoso FC. Multi-targeting sodium and calcium channels using venom peptides for the treatment of complex ion channels-related diseases. Biochem Pharmacol 2020; 181:114107. [PMID: 32579958 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2020.114107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Venom peptides are amongst the most exquisite group of bioactive molecules able to alter the normal physiology of organisms. These bioactive peptides penetrate tissues and blood vessels to encounter a number of receptors and ion channels to which they bind with high affinity and execute modulatory activities. Arachnid is the most diverse class of venomous animals often rich in peptides modulating voltage-gated sodium (NaV), calcium (CaV), and potassium (KV) channels. Spider venoms, in particular, contain potent and selective peptides targeting these channels, with a few displaying interesting multi-target properties for NaV and CaV channels underlying disease mechanisms such as in neuropathic pain, motor neuron disease and cancer. The elucidation of the pharmacology and structure-function properties of these venom peptides are invaluable for the development of effective drugs targeting NaV and CaV channels. This perspective discusses spider venom peptides displaying multi-target properties to modulate NaV and CaV channels in regard to their pharmacological features, structure-function relationships and potential to become the next generation of effective drugs to treat neurological disorders and other multi-ion channels related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda C Cardoso
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, 306 Carmody Rd., St Lucia, QLD AU 4072, Australia
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