Pan-American Lancehead Pit-Vipers: Coagulotoxic Venom Effects and Antivenom Neutralisation of Bothrops asper and B. atrox Geographical Variants

The toxin composition of snake venoms and, thus, their functional activity, can vary between and within species. Intraspecific venom variation across a species’ geographic range is a major concern for antivenom treatment of envenomations, particularly for countries like French Guiana that lack a locally produced antivenom. Bothrops asper and Bothrops atrox are the most medically significant species of snakes in Latin America, both producing a variety of clinical manifestations, including systemic bleeding. These pathophysiological actions are due to the activation by the venom of the blood clotting factors Factor X and prothrombin, thereby causing severe consumptive coagulopathy. Both species are extremely wide-ranging, and previous studies have shown their venoms to exhibit regional venom variation. In this study, we investigate the differential coagulotoxic effects on human plasma of six venoms (four B. asper and two B. atrox samples) from different geographic locations, spanning from Mexico to Peru. We assessed how the venom variation of these venom samples affects neutralisation by five regionally available antivenoms: Antivipmyn, Antivipmyn-Tri, PoliVal-ICP, Bothrofav, and Soro Antibotrópico (SAB). The results revealed both inter- and intraspecific variations in the clotting activity of the venoms. These variations in turn resulted in significant variation in antivenom efficacy against the coagulotoxic effects of these venoms. Due to variations in the venoms used in the antivenom production process, antivenoms differed in their species-specific or geographical neutralisation capacity. Some antivenoms (PoliVal-ICP, Bothrofav, and SAB) showed species-specific patterns of neutralisation, while another antivenom (Antivipmyn) showed geographic-specific patterns of neutralisation. This study adds to current knowledge of Bothrops venoms and also illustrates the importance of considering evolutionary biology when developing antivenoms. Therefore, these results have tangible, real-world implications by aiding evidence-based design of antivenoms for treatment of the envenomed patient. We stress that these in vitro studies must be backed by future in vivo studies and clinical trials before therapeutic guidelines are issued regarding specific antivenom use in a clinical setting.

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A Distinction between the Role of Precursor and Activated Forms of Clotting Factors in the Genesis of Stasis Thrombi

Thrombosis and Haemostasis ◽

10.1055/s-0038-1655013 ◽

1967 ◽

Vol 18 (01/02) ◽

pp. 012-023 ◽

Cited By ~ 9

Author(s):

S Wessler ◽

E. T Yin ◽

L. W Gaston ◽

Iona Nicol

Keyword(s):

Human Serum ◽

Factor Ix ◽

In Vivo Studies ◽

Factor Vii ◽

Factor X ◽

Clotting Factors ◽

Insight Into

Summary1. In vivo studies in rabbits have shown that the liver diminishes the thrombo-genicity of infused human serum.2. In vitro rabbit liver perfusions with human serum have demonstrated the loss of serum thrombogenicity within 5 min after the onset of the perfusion. Associated with this loss of thrombotic capacity is a marked decrease in the activation product (AP) and labile factor IX (PPA) activity in the infused serum.3. The liver appears to have the capacity to discriminate between circulating activated clotting activities such as AP and PPA and inactive procoagulants such as stable or genuine factor IX, factor VII and factor X. The latter are not cleared from the circulation by the liver.4. These studies provide some insight into the mechanism whereby circulating activated clotting activities and retarded blood flow predispose to thrombosis.

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Modulation of Matrix Metalloproteinases by Plant-Derived Products

Current Cancer Drug Targets ◽

10.2174/1568009620666201120144838 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 20 ◽

Author(s):

Nur Najmi Mohamad Anuar ◽

Nurul Iman Natasya Zulkafali ◽

Azizah Ugusman

Keyword(s):

Clinical Trials ◽

Natural Products ◽

Matrix Metalloproteinases ◽

Animal Studies ◽

Current Knowledge ◽

In Vitro Models ◽

In Vivo Studies ◽

Extracellular Matrix Components

: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of zinc-dependent metallo-endopeptidase that are responsible towards the degradation, repair and remodelling of extracellular matrix components. MMPs play an important role in maintaining a normal physiological function and preventing diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Natural products derived from plants have been used as traditional medicine for centuries. Its active compounds, such as catechin, resveratrol and quercetin, are suggested to play an important role as MMPs inhibitors, thereby opening new insights into their applications in many fields, such as pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries. This review summarises the current knowledge on plant-derived natural products with MMP-modulating activities. Most of the reviewed plant-derived products exhibit an inhibitory activity on MMPs. Amongst MMPs, MMP-2 and MMP-9 are the most studied. The expression of MMPs is inhibited through respective signalling pathways, such as MAPK, NF-κB and PI3 kinase pathways, which contribute to the reduction in cancer cell behaviours, such as proliferation and migration. Most studies have employed in vitro models, but a limited number of animal studies and clinical trials have been conducted. Even though plant-derived products show promising results in modulating MMPs, more in vivo studies and clinical trials are needed to support their therapeutic applications in the future.

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Seminal Plasma: Relevant for Fertility?

International Journal of Molecular Sciences ◽

10.3390/ijms22094368 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 22 (9) ◽

pp. 4368

Author(s):

Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez ◽

Emilio A. Martinez ◽

Juan J. Calvete ◽

Fernando J. Peña Vega ◽

Jordi Roca

Keyword(s):

Seminal Plasma ◽

Current Knowledge ◽

Inorganic Ions ◽

Vitro Fertilization ◽

Dna And Rna ◽

Model Animal ◽

Sexual Glands ◽

Species Specific

Seminal plasma (SP), the non-cellular component of semen, is a heterogeneous composite fluid built by secretions of the testis, the epididymis and the accessory sexual glands. Its composition, despite species-specific anatomical peculiarities, consistently contains inorganic ions, specific hormones, proteins and peptides, including cytokines and enzymes, cholesterol, DNA and RNA—the latter often protected within epididymis- or prostate-derived extracellular vesicles. It is beyond question that the SP participates in diverse aspects of sperm function pre-fertilization events. The SP also interacts with the various compartments of the tubular genital tract, triggering changes in gene function that prepares for an eventual successful pregnancy; thus, it ultimately modulates fertility. Despite these concepts, it is imperative to remember that SP-free spermatozoa (epididymal or washed ejaculated) are still fertile, so this review shall focus on the differences between the in vivo roles of the SP following semen deposition in the female and those regarding additions of SP on spermatozoa handled for artificial reproduction, including cryopreservation, from artificial insemination to in vitro fertilization. This review attempts, including our own results on model animal species, to critically summarize the current knowledge of the reproductive roles played by SP components, particularly in our own species, which is increasingly affected by infertility. The ultimate goal is to reconcile the delicate balance between the SP molecular concentration and their concerted effects after temporal exposure in vivo. We aim to appraise the functions of the SP components, their relevance as diagnostic biomarkers and their value as eventual additives to refine reproductive strategies, including biotechnologies, in livestock models and humans.

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Antimalarial drugs—are they beneficial in rheumatic and viral diseases?—considerations in COVID-19 pandemic

Clinical Rheumatology ◽

10.1007/s10067-021-05805-5 ◽

2021 ◽

Author(s):

Bogna Grygiel-Górniak

Keyword(s):

Connective Tissue ◽

Viral Infections ◽

Current Knowledge ◽

Inflammatory Diseases ◽

Antiviral Drugs ◽

In Vivo Studies ◽

Viral Diseases ◽

Cardiac Complications

AbstractThe majority of the medical fraternity is continuously involved in finding new therapeutic schemes, including antimalarial medications (AMDs), which can be useful in combating the 2019-nCoV: coronavirus disease (COVID-19). For many decades, AMDs have been widely used in the treatment of malaria and various other anti-inflammatory diseases, particularly to treat autoimmune disorders of the connective tissue. The review comprises in vitro and in vivo studies, original studies, clinical trials, and consensus reports for the analysis, which were available in medical databases (e.g., PubMed). This manuscript summarizes the current knowledge about chloroquine (CQ)/hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and shows the difference between their use, activity, recommendation, doses, and adverse effects on two groups of patients: those with rheumatic and viral diseases (including COVID-19). In the case of connective tissue disorders, AMDs are prescribed for a prolonged duration in small doses, and their effect is observed after few weeks, whereas in the case of viral infections, they are prescribed in larger doses for a short duration to achieve a quick saturation effect. In rheumatic diseases, AMDs are well tolerated, and their side effects are rare. However, in some viral diseases, the effect of AMDs is questionable or not so noticeable as suggested during the initial prognosis. They are mainly used as an additive therapy to antiviral drugs, but recent studies have shown that AMDs can diminish the efficacy of some antiviral drugs and may cause respiratory, kidney, liver, and cardiac complications.

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A Biochemical and Pharmacological Characterization of Phospholipase A2 and Metalloproteinase Fractions from Eastern Russell’s Viper (Daboia siamensis) Venom: Two Major Components Associated with Acute Kidney Injury

Toxins ◽

10.3390/toxins13080521 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 13 (8) ◽

pp. 521

Author(s):

Janeyuth Chaisakul ◽

Orawan Khow ◽

Kulachet Wiwatwarayos ◽

Muhamad Rusdi Ahmad Rusmili ◽

Watcharamon Prasert ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Acute Kidney Injury ◽

Phospholipase A2 ◽

Protein Identification ◽

Clinical Manifestations ◽

Kidney Injury ◽

Factor X ◽

Pharmacological Characterization ◽

Russell’S Viper

Acute kidney injury (AKI) following Eastern Russell’s viper (Daboia siamensis) envenoming is a significant symptom in systemically envenomed victims. A number of venom components have been identified as causing the nephrotoxicity which leads to AKI. However, the precise mechanism of nephrotoxicity caused by these toxins is still unclear. In the present study, we purified two proteins from D. siamensis venom, namely RvPLA2 and RvMP. Protein identification using LCMS/MS confirmed the identity of RvPLA2 to be snake venom phospholipase A2 (SVPLA2) from Thai D. siamensis venom, whereas RvMP exhibited the presence of a factor X activator with two subunits. In vitro and in vivo pharmacological studies demonstrated myotoxicity and histopathological changes of kidney, heart, and spleen. RvPLA2 (3–10 µg/mL) caused inhibition of direct twitches of the chick biventer cervicis muscle preparation. After administration of RvPLA2 or RvMP (300 µg/kg, i.p.) for 24 h, diffuse glomerular congestion and tubular injury with minor loss of brush border were detected in envenomed mice. RvPLA2 and RvMP (300 µg/kg; i.p.) also induced congestion and tissue inflammation of heart muscle as well as diffuse congestion of mouse spleen. This study showed the significant roles of PLA2 and SVMP in snake bite envenoming caused by Thai D. siamensis and their similarities with observed clinical manifestations in envenomed victims. This study also indicated that there is a need to reevaluate the current treatment strategies for Thai D. siamensis envenoming, given the potential for irreversible nephrotoxicity.

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The Occurrence and Biological Activity of Tormentic Acid—A Review

Molecules ◽

10.3390/molecules26133797 ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 26 (13) ◽

pp. 3797

Author(s):

Marta Olech ◽

Wojciech Ziemichód ◽

Natalia Nowacka-Jechalke

Keyword(s):

Biological Activity ◽

Plant Species ◽

Current Knowledge ◽

In Vivo Studies ◽

Natural Sources ◽

Anti Cancer ◽

Biochemical Mechanisms ◽

Tormentic Acid

This review focuses on the natural sources and pharmacological activity of tormentic acid (TA; 2α,3β,19α-trihydroxyurs-2-en-28-oic acid). The current knowledge of its occurrence in various plant species and families is summarized. Biological activity (e.g., anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, anti-cancer, anti-osteoarthritic, antinociceptive, antioxidative, anti-melanogenic, cytotoxic, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic) confirmed in in vitro and in vivo studies is compiled and described. Biochemical mechanisms affected by TA are indicated. Moreover, issues related to the biotechnological methods of production, effective eluents, and TA derivatives are presented.

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Review: The endless nutritional and pharmaceutical benefits of the Himalayan gold, Cordyceps; Current knowledge and prospective potentials

Biofarmasi Journal of Natural Product Biochemistry ◽

10.13057/biofar/f180204 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 18 (2) ◽

Author(s):

Waill Elkhateeb ◽

Ghoson Daba

Keyword(s):

Current Knowledge ◽

Health Benefits ◽

Chemical Compounds ◽

Food Supplement ◽

In Vivo Studies ◽

Protective Agent ◽

Global Marketplace

Abstract. Elkhateeb WA, Daba GM. 2020. Review: The endless nutritional and pharmaceutical benefits of the Himalayan gold, Cordyceps; Current knowledge and prospective potentials. Biofarmasi J Nat Prod Biochem 18: 70-77. As a traditional medicine, Cordyceps has long been used in Asian nations for maintaining vivacity and boosting immunity. Numerous publications on various bioactivities of Cordyceps have been investigated in both in-vitro as well as in vivo studies. Nevertheless, the role of Cordyceps is still arguable whether it acts as food supplement for health benefits or a real healing drug that can be prescribed in medicine. The Cordyceps industry has developed greatly and offers thousands of products, commonly available in a global marketplace. In this review, focus will be on introducing the ecology of Cordyceps and their classification. Moreover, elucidation of the richness of extracts originated from this mushroom in nutritional components was presented, with description of the chemical compounds of Cordyceps and its well-known compounds such as cordycepin, and cordycepic acid. Furthermore, highlights on natural growth and artificial cultivation of famous Cordyceps species were presented. The health benefits and reported bioactivities of Cordyceps species as promising antimicrobial, anticancer, hypocholesterolemic, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, organ protective agent, and enhancer for organ function were presented.

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Exposure to airborne gold nanoparticles: a review of current toxicological data on the respiratory tract

Journal of Nanoparticle Research ◽

10.1007/s11051-020-04966-9 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 22 (8) ◽

Author(s):

Barbara De Berardis ◽

Magda Marchetti ◽

Anna Risuglia ◽

Federica Ietto ◽

Carla Fanizza ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Gold Nanoparticles ◽

Human Health ◽

Large Scale ◽

Current Knowledge ◽

Engineered Nanoparticles ◽

In Vivo Studies ◽

Field Exposure ◽

The Impact

AbstractIn recent years, the introduction of innovative low-cost and large-scale processes for the synthesis of engineered nanoparticles with at least one dimension less than 100 nm has led to countless useful and extensive applications. In this context, gold nanoparticles stimulated a growing interest, due to their peculiar characteristics such as ease of synthesis, chemical stability and optical properties. This stirred the development of numerous applications especially in the biomedical field. Exposure of manufacturers and consumers to industrial products containing nanoparticles poses a potential risk to human health and the environment. Despite this, the precise mechanisms of nanomaterial toxicity have not yet been fully elucidated. It is well known that the three main routes of exposure to nanomaterials are by inhalation, ingestion and through the skin, with inhalation being the most common route of exposure to NPs in the workplace. To provide a complete picture of the impact of inhaled gold nanoparticles on human health, in this article, we review the current knowledge about the physico-chemical characteristics of this nanomaterial, in the size range of 1–100 nm, and its toxicity for pulmonary structures both in vitro and in vivo. Studies comparing the toxic effect of NPs larger than 100 nm (up to 250 nm) are also discussed.

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Composition and Potential Health Benefits of Pomegranate: A Review

Current Pharmaceutical Design ◽

10.2174/1381612825666190708183941 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 25 (16) ◽

pp. 1817-1827 ◽

Cited By ~ 9

Author(s):

Vesna Vučić ◽

Milkica Grabež ◽

Armen Trchounian ◽

Aleksandra Arsić

Keyword(s):

Current Knowledge ◽

Health Benefits ◽

Punica Granatum ◽

In Vivo Studies ◽

Full Potential ◽

Fruit Peel ◽

Potential Health ◽

Comprehensive Search

Background:: Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) fruits are widely consumed and used as preventive and therapeutic agents since ancient times. Pomegranate is a rich source of a variety of phytochemicals, which are responsible for its strong antioxidative and anti-inflammatory potential. Objective:: The aim of this review is to provide an up-to-date overview of the current knowledge of chemical structure and potential health benefits of pomegranate. Method: : A comprehensive search of available literature. Results:: The review of the literature confirms that juice and extracts obtained from different parts of this plant, including fruit peel, seeds, and leaves exert health benefits in both in vitro and in vivo studies. The antidiabetic, antihypertensive, antimicrobial and anti-tumour effects of pomegranate fruit are of particular scientific and clinical interest. Conclusion:: Further investigations are required to clarify the mechanism of action of the bioactive ingredients and to reveal full potential of pomegranate as both preventive and therapeutic agent.

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The Control Of Antithrombotic Prophylaxis And Therapy: A Pro-Coagulant Effect Of Heparin

10.1055/s-0038-1653150 ◽

1981 ◽

Author(s):

E Szwarcer ◽

R Giuliani ◽

E Martinez Aquino

Keyword(s):

Blood Coagulation ◽

Antithrombin Iii ◽

Fixed Time ◽

In Vitro Studies ◽

In Vivo Studies ◽

Clotting Factors ◽

Platelet Poor Plasma ◽

Normal Platelet

For studying heparin effect on blood coagulation and on inhibitors, the drug was added at increasing amounts to a normal platelet poor plasma (PPP), and to plasmas of patients with variable amounts of clotting factors (cirrhotic, pregnant, etc) -IN VITRO STUDIES-, and infused to the same individuals -IN VIVO STUDIES-. Modifications on two clotting assays (KCCT-TT) were compared to heparin potentiating effect on AntiXa (Denson & Bonnar tech).When studied IN VITRO, the sensibility of KCCT, TT, and AntiXa techniques for heparin measurement was similar. IN VIVO, an apparently greater sensibility using AntiXa technique was observed.For determining if this phenomena was related to a specific enhanced potentiating effect of the inhibitor against Xa, exerted by heparin IN VIVO, experiences were repeated IN VITRO and IN VIVO, measuring heparin effect on KCCT, TT, and on the inhibitor, studied against Xa and thrombin. A personal technique was used for the measurement of Antithrombin III heparin potentiating effect, using diluted platelet poor test plasma, heated (56°C 15’) and incubated with thrombin during a fixed time, and reading residual thrombin on citrated human PPP. IN VITRO, all techniques were similar in their ability to show heparin presence.IN VIVO, the potentiating effect of heparin on the inhibitor, measured against Xa or thrombin, was greater than the changes obtained on KCCT or TT.So, AntiXa-Antithrombin III techniques seem to be more sensitive for heparin measurement IN VIVO.This “dissociation” of results in between the potentiating effect on the inhibitor, that is not simultaneously exerted on global coagulation, is interpreted as a heparin pro-coagulant effect, exerted by the drug IN VIVO.

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