Analgesic effects of Phα1ß toxin: a review of mechanisms of action involving pain pathways.

Phα1ß 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 Phα1ß 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 Phα1ß (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 Phα1ß 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.

Calcium channels blockers toxins attenuate abdominal hyperalgesia and inflammatory response associated with the cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis in rats.

Agents that modulate the activity of high-voltage gated calcium channels (HVCCs) exhibit experimentally and clinically significant effect by relieving visceral pain. Among these agents, the toxins Phα1ß and ω-conotoxin MVIIA effectively reduce chronic pain in rodent models. The molecular mechanisms underlying the chronic pain associated with acute pancreatitis (AP) are poorly understood. Hypercalcemia is a risk factor; the role of cytosolic calcium is considered to be a modulator of pancreatitis. Blockade of Ca2+ signals may be useful as a prophylactic treatment of pancreatitis. We explored the pathophysiological roles of three peptide toxins: Phα1ß and its recombinant form CTK 01512-2-blockers of TRPA1 receptor and HVCCs and ω-conotoxin MVIIA, a specific blocker of N-type calcium channels in cerulein-induced AP. Cerulein injection elicits AP in rats, evidenced by an increase in hyperalgesic pain, inflammatory infiltration, amylase and lipase secretion, and reactive oxygen species, TNF-α, and p65 NF-κB levels. These effects of cerulein-induced AP were abolished by Phα1ß and its recombinant form CTK 01512-2, whereas ω-conotoxin MVIIA had no effect on the induced increase in pancreatic enzyme secretion. Our results demonstrate that Phα1ß and CTK 01512-2 toxins-antagonists of HVCCs and TRPA1 receptor presented an effective response profile, in the control of nociception and inflammatory process in the AP model in rats, without causing changes in spontaneous locomotion of the rats.

Analgesic effects of Phalfa1 beta toxin: a review of mechanisms of action involving pain pathways

Phα1ß 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 Phα1ß 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 Phα1ß (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 Phα1ß 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.

Analgesic effects of Ph1 toxin: a review of mechanisms of action involving pain pathways

Abstract Ph1 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 Ph1 to treat chronic pain reverted opioid tolerance with a safer profile than -conotoxin MVIIA, a highly selective NVACC blocker. Following a recent development of recombinant Ph1 (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 Ph1 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.

Analgesic effects of Phα1ß toxin: a review of mechanisms of action involving pain pathways

Phα1ß 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 Phα1ß 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 Phα1ß (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 Phα1ß 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.

Analgesic and side effects of intravenous recombinant Phα1ß.

BACKGROUND: Intrathecal injection of voltage-sensitive calcium channel blocker peptide toxins exerts analgesic effect in several animal models of pain. Upon intrathecal administration, recombinant Phα1ß exerts the same analgesic effects as the those of the native toxin. However, from a clinical perspective, the intrathecal administration limits the use of anesthetic drugs in patients. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the possible antinociceptive effect of intravenous recombinant Phα1ß in rat models of neuropathic pain, as well as its side effects on motor, cardiac (heart rate and blood pressure), and biochemical parameters. METHODS: Male Wistar rats and male Balb-C mice were used in this study. Giotto Biotech® synthesized the recombinant version of Phα1ß using Escherichia coli expression. In rats, neuropathic pain was induced by chronic constriction of the sciatic nerve and paclitaxel-induced acute and chronic pain. Mechanical sensitivity was evaluated using von Frey filaments. A radiotelemeter transmitter (TA11PA-C10; Data Sciences, St. Paul, MN, USA) was placed on the left carotid of mice for investigation of cardiovascular side effects. Locomotor activity data were evaluated using the open-field paradigm, and serum CKMB, TGO, TGP, LDH, lactate, creatinine, and urea levels were examined. RESULTS: Intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1ß toxin induced analgesia for up to 4 h, with ED50 of 0.02 (0.01-0.03) mg/kg, and reached the maximal effect (Emax = 100% antinociception) at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg. No significant changes were observed in any of the evaluated motor, cardiac or biochemical parameters. CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1ß may be feasible for drug-induced analgesia, without causing any severe side effects.

Analgesic effects of the CTK 01512-2 toxin in different models of orofacial pain in rats.

BACKGROUND: Orofacial pain is clinically challenging, having therapeutic failures and side effects. This study evaluated the antinociceptive activities of the CTK 01512-2 toxin, the TRPA1 channel antagonist, and the selective inhibitor of the N-type voltage-gated calcium channels (N-type VGCC), in different pain models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The trigeminal ganglia were stimulated in vitro with capsaicin. The in vivo models received subcutaneous (sc) injections of formalin into the upper lip of the rats, Freund's Complete Adjuvant (FCA) into the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and infraorbital nerve constrictions (IONC). CTK 01512-2 at concentrations of 30, 100, and 300 pmol/site, intrathecally (ith), and MVIIA at 10, 30, and 100 pmol/site in the formalin test, guided the doses for the models. The glutamate levels in the CSF of the rats that were submitted to IONC were analyzed. RESULTS: CTK 01512-2 decreased the nociceptive behavior in the inflammatory phase of the formalin test (65.94 ± 7.35%) and MVIIA in the neurogenic phase (81.23 ± 3.36%). CTK 01512-2 reduced facial grooming with FCA in the TMJ (96.7 ± 1.6%), and in the IONC neuropathy model, it decreased heat hyperalgesia (100%) and cold hyperalgesia (81.61 ± 9.02%). The levels of glutamate in the trigeminal ganglia in vitro (81.40 ± 8.59%) and in the CSF in vivo (70.0 ± 9.2%) were reduced. CONCLUSIONS: The roles of TRPA1 in pain transduction and the performance of CTK 01512-2 in the inhibition of the N-type VGCCs were reinforced. This dual activity may represent an advantage in clinical treatments.

The inhibitory effect of Phα1ß toxin on diabetic neuropathic pain involves the CXCR4 chemokine receptor.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic neuropathy is a common cause of painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN). C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) expression is increased in peripheral nerve samples from diabetes patients, suggesting a role for CXCR4 in PDN. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of Phα1ß, ω-conotoxin MVIIA, and AMD3100 in a model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced PDN in rodents and naïve model of rats with the activation of the CXCR4/stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) signal. METHODS: Diabetic neuropathy was induced by intraperitoneal (ip) injection of STZ in Wistar rats. Naïve rats were intrathecally injected with SDF-1 to test the CXCR4/SDF-1 signal. The effects of Phα1ß intrathecal (it), ω-conotoxin MVIIA intrathecal (it), and AMD3100 intraperitoneal (ip) on rat hypersensitivity, IL-6, and the intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i content of diabetic synaptosomes were studied. RESULTS: The drugs reduced the hypersensitivity in diabetic rats. SDF-1 (1.0 µg/it) administration in naïve rats induced hypersensitivity. Phα1ß (100 pmol/it) or AMD3100 (2.5 µg/ip) reduced this hypersensitivity after 2 h treatments, while ω-conotoxin MVIIA did not have an effect. IL-6 and [Ca2+]i content increased in the spinal cord synaptosomes in diabetic rats. The drug treatments reduced IL-6 and the calcium influx in diabetic synaptosomes. CONCLUSIONS: Phα1ß, ω-conotoxin MVIIA, and AMD3100, after 2 h of treatment of STZ-induced PDN, reduced hypersensitivity in diabetic rats. In naïve rats with CXCR4/SDF-1 activation, the induced hypersensitivity decreased after 2 h treatments with Phα1ß or AMD-3100, while ω-conotoxin MVIIA did not affect. The inhibitory effects of Phα1ß on PDN may involve voltage-dependent calcium channels.

Phoneutria toxin PnTx3-5 inhibits TRPV1 channel with antinociceptive action in an orofacial pain model.

Capsaicin, an agonist of TRPV1, evokes intracellular [Ca2+] transients and glutamate release from perfused trigeminal ganglion. The spider toxin PnTx3-5, native or recombinant is more potent than the selective TRPV1 blocker SB-366791 with IC50 of 47 ±â€¯0.18 nM, 45 ±â€¯1.18 nM and 390 ±â€¯5.1 nM in the same experimental conditions. PnTx3-5 is thus more potent than the selective TRPV1 blocker SB-366791. PnTx3-5 (40 nM) and SB-366791 (3 µM) also inhibited the capsaicin-induced increase in intracellular Ca2+ in HEK293 cells transfected with TRPV1 by 75 ±â€¯16% and 84 ±â€¯3.2%, respectively. In HEK293 cells transfected with TRPA1, cinnamaldehyde (30 µM) generated an increase in intracellular Ca2+ that was blocked by the TRPA1 antagonist HC-030031 (10 µM, 89% inhibition), but not by PnTx3-5 (40 nM), indicating selectivity of the toxin for TRPV1. In whole-cell patch-clamp experiments on HEK293 cells transfected with TRPV1, capsaicin (10 µM) generated inward currents that were blocked by SB-366791 and by both native and recombinant PnTx3-5 by 47 ±â€¯1.4%; 54 ±â€¯7.8% and 56 ±â€¯9.0%, respectively. Intradermal injection of capsaicin into the rat left vibrissa induced nociceptive behavior that was blocked by pre-injection with either SB-366791 (3 nmol/site i.d., 83.3 ±â€¯7.2% inhibition) or PnTx3-5 (100 fmol/site, 89 ±â€¯8.4% inhibition). We conclude that both native and recombinant PnTx3-5 are potent TRPV1 receptor antagonists with antinociceptive action on pain behavior evoked by capsaicin.

Analgesic and side effects of intravenous recombinant Ph alfa 1 beta

Background: Intrathecal injection of voltage-sensitive calcium channel blocker peptide toxins exerts analgesic effect in several animal models of pain. Upon intrathecal administration, recombinant Phα1β exerts the same analgesic effects as the those of the native toxin. However, from a clinical perspective, the intrathecal administration limits the use of anesthetic drugs in patients. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the possible antinociceptive effect of intravenous recombinant Phα1β in rat models of neuropathic pain, as well as its side effects on motor, cardiac (heart rate and blood pressure), and biochemical parameters. Methods: Male Wistar rats and male Balb-C mice were used in this study. Giotto Biotech® synthesized the recombinant version of Phα1β using Escherichia coli expression. In rats, neuropathic pain was induced by chronic constriction of the sciatic nerve and paclitaxel-induced acute and chronic pain. Mechanical sensitivity was evaluated using von Frey filaments. A radiotelemeter transmitter (TA11PA-C10; Data Sciences, St. Paul, MN, USA) was placed on the left carotid of mice for investigation of cardiovascular side effects. Locomotor activity data were evaluated using the open-field paradigm, and serum CKMB, TGO, TGP, LDH, lactate, creatinine, and urea levels were examined. Results: Intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1β toxin induced analgesia for up to 4 h, with ED50 of 0.02 (0.01-0.03) mg/kg, and reached the maximal effect (Emax = 100% antinociception) at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg. No significant changes were observed in any of the evaluated motor, cardiac or biochemical parameters. Conclusion: Our data suggest that intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1β may be feasible for drug-induced analgesia, without causing any severe side effects.

The inhibitory effect of Phα1β toxin on diabetic neuropathic pain involves the CXCR4 chemokine receptor

Background Diabetic neuropathy is a common cause of painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN). C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) expression is increased in peripheral nerve samples from diabetes patients, suggesting a role for CXCR4 in PDN. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of Pha1ß, Ômega-conotoxin MVIIA, and AMD3100 in a model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced PDN in rodents and naïve model of rats with the activation of the CXCR4/stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) signal. Methods Diabetic neuropathy was induced by intraperitoneal (ip) injection of STZ in Wistar rats. Naïve rats were intrathecally injected with SDF-1 to test the CXCR4/SDF-1 signal. The effects of Pha1ß intrathecal (it), Ômega-conotoxin MVIIA intrathecal (it), and AMD3100 intraperitoneal (ip) on rat hypersensitivity, IL-6, and the intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i content of diabetic synaptosomes were studied. Results The drugs reduced the hypersensitivity in diabetic rats. SDF-1 (1.0 µg/it) administration in naïve rats induced hypersensitivity. Pha1ß (100 pmol/it) or AMD3100 (2.5 µg/ip) reduced this hypersensitivity after 2 h treatments, while Ômega-conotoxin MVIIA did not have an effect. IL-6 and [Ca2+]i content increased in the spinal cord synaptosomes in diabetic rats. The drug treatments reduced IL-6 and the calcium influx in diabetic synaptosomes. Conclusions Pha1ß, Ômega-conotoxin MVIIA, and AMD3100, after 2 h of treatment of STZ-induced PDN, reduced hypersensitivity in diabetic rats. In naïve rats with CXCR4/SDF-1 activation, the induced hypersensitivity decreased after 2 h treatments with Pha1ß or AMD-3100, while Ômega-conotoxin MVIIA did not affect. The inhibitory effects of Pha1ß on PDN may involve voltage-dependent calcium channels.

The inhibitory effect of Pha1ß toxin on diabetic neuropathic pain involves the CXCR4 chemokine receptor

Background Diabetic neuropathy is a common cause of painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN). C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) expression is increased in peripheral nerve samples from diabetes patients, suggesting a role for CXCR4 in PDN. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of Pha1ß, Ômega-conotoxin MVIIA, and AMD3100 in a model of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced PDN in rodents and naïve model of rats with the activation of the CXCR4/stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) signal. Methods Diabetic neuropathy was induced by intraperitoneal (ip) injection of STZ in Wistar rats. Naïve rats were intrathecally injected with SDF-1 to test the CXCR4/SDF-1 signal. The effects of Pha1ß intrathecal (it), Ômega-conotoxin MVIIA intrathecal (it), and AMD3100 intraperitoneal (ip) on rat hypersensitivity, IL-6, and the intracellular calcium [Ca2+]i content of diabetic synaptosomes were studied. Results The drugs reduced the hypersensitivity in diabetic rats. SDF-1 (1.0 µg/it) administration in naïve rats induced hypersensitivity. Pha1ß (100 pmol/it) or AMD3100 (2.5 µg/ip) reduced this hypersensitivity after 2 h treatments, while Ômega-conotoxin MVIIA did not have an effect. IL-6 and [Ca2+]i content increased in the spinal cord synaptosomes in diabetic rats. The drug treatments reduced IL-6 and the calcium influx in diabetic synaptosomes. Conclusions Pha1ß, Ômega-conotoxin MVIIA, and AMD3100, after 2 h of treatment of STZ-induced PDN, reduced hypersensitivity in diabetic rats. In naïve rats with CXCR4/SDF-1 activation, the induced hypersensitivity decreased after 2 h treatments with Pha1ß or AMD-3100, while Ômega-conotoxin MVIIA did not affect. The inhibitory effects of Pha1ß on PDN may involve voltage-dependent calcium channels.

Analgesic and side effects of intravenous recombinant Phα1ß

Intrathecal injection of voltage-sensitive calcium channel blocker peptide toxins exerts analgesic effect in several animal models of pain. Upon intrathecal administration, recombinant Phα1ß exerts the same analgesic effects as the those of the native toxin. However, from a clinical perspective, the intrathecal administration limits the use of anesthetic drugs in patients. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the possible antinociceptive effect of intravenous recombinant Phα1ß in rat models of neuropathic pain, as well as its side effects on motor, cardiac (heart rate and blood pressure), and biochemical parameters. Methods: Male Wistar rats and male Balb-C mice were used in this study. Giotto Biotech® synthesized the recombinant version of Phα1ß using Escherichia coli expression. In rats, neuropathic pain was induced by chronic constriction of the sciatic nerve and paclitaxel-induced acute and chronic pain. Mechanical sensitivity was evaluated using von Frey filaments. A radiotelemeter transmitter (TA11PA-C10; Data Sciences, St. Paul, MN, USA) was placed on the left carotid of mice for investigation of cardiovascular side effects. Locomotor activity data were evaluated using the open-field paradigm, and serum CKMB, TGO, TGP, LDH, lactate, creatinine, and urea levels were examined. Results: Intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1ß toxin induced analgesia for up to 4 h, with ED50 of 0.02 (0.01-0.03) mg/kg, and reached the maximal effect (Emax = 100% antinociception) at a dose of 0.2 mg/kg. No significant changes were observed in any of the evaluated motor, cardiac or biochemical parameters. Conclusion: Our data suggest that intravenous administration of recombinant Phα1ß may be feasible for drug-induced analgesia, without causing any severe side effects.(AU)

PhTx3-4, a Spider Toxin Calcium Channel Blocker, Reduces NMDA-Induced Injury of the Retina.

The in vivo neuroprotective effect of PhTx3-4, a spider toxin N-P/Q calcium channel blocker, was studied in a rat model of NMDA-induced injury of the retina. NMDA (N-Methyl-D-Aspartate)-induced retinal injury in rats reduced the b-wave amplitude by 62% ± 3.6%, indicating the severity of the insult. PhTx3-4 treatment increased the amplitude of the b-wave, which was almost equivalent to the control retinas that were not submitted to injury. The PhTx3-4 functional protection of the retinas recorded on the ERG also was observed in the neuroprotection of retinal cells. NMDA-induced injury reduced live cells in the retina layers and the highest reduction, 84%, was in the ganglion cell layer. Notably, PhTx3-4 treatment caused a remarkable reduction of dead cells in the retina layers, and the highest neuroprotective effect was in the ganglion cells layer. NMDA-induced cytotoxicity of the retina increased the release of glutamate, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and oxidative stress. PhTx3-4 treatment reduced glutamate release, ROS production and oxidative stress measured by malondialdehyde. Thus, we presented for the first time evidence of in vivo neuroprotection from NMDA-induced retinal injury by PhTx3-4 (-ctenitoxin-Pn3a), a spider toxin that blocks N-P/Q calcium channels.

Effects of the calcium channel blockers Phα1ß and ω-conotoxin MVIIA on capsaicin and acetic acid-induced visceral nociception in mice.

UNLABELLED: The effects of intrathecal administration of the toxins Phα1ß and ω-conotoxin MVIIA were investigated in visceral nociception induced by an intraperitoneal injection of acetic acid and an intracolonic application of capsaicin. The pretreatments for 2h with the toxins reduced the number of writhes or nociceptive behaviors compared with the control mice. Phα1ß administration resulted in an Imax of 84±6 and an ID50 of 12 (5-27), and ω-conotoxin MVIIA resulted in an Imax of 82±9 and an ID50 of 11 (4-35) in the contortions induced by the intraperitoneal injection of acetic acid. The administration of Phα1ß resulted in an Imax of 64±4 and an ID50 of 18 (9-38), and ω-conotoxin MVIIA resulted in an Imax of 71±9 and an ID50 of 9 (1-83) in the contortions induced by intracolonic capsaicin administration. Phα1ß (100/site) or ω-conotoxin MVIIA (30pmol/site) pretreatments caused a reduction in CSF glutamate release in mice intraperitoneally injected with acetic acid or treated with intracolonic capsaicin. The toxin pretreatments reduced the ROS levels induced by intraperitoneal acetic acid injection. Phα1ß, but not ω-conotoxin MVIIA, reduced significantly the ROS levels induced by intracolonic capsaicin administration. PERSPECTIVE: Phα1ß is a ω-toxin with high therapeutic index and a broader action on calcium channels. It shows analgesic effect in several rodents' models of pain, including visceral pain, suggesting that this toxin has the potential to be used in clinical setting as a drug in the control of persistent pathological pain.

Action of Phα1ß, a peptide from the venom of the spider Phoneutria nigriventer, on the analgesic and adverse effects caused by morphine in mice.

UNLABELLED: Opioids are standard therapy for the treatment of pain; however, adverse effects limit their use. Voltage-gated calcium channel blockers may be used to increase opioid analgesia, but their effect on opioid-induced side effects is little known. Thus, the goal of this study was to evaluate the action of the peptide Phα1ß, a voltage-gated calcium channel blocker, on the antinociceptive and adverse effects produced by morphine in mice. A single administration of morphine (3-10 mg/kg) was able to reduce heat nociception as well as decrease gastrointestinal transit. The antinociception caused by a single injection of morphine was slightly increased by an intrathecal injection of Phα1ß (30 pmol/site). Repeated treatment with morphine caused tolerance, hyperalgesia, withdrawal syndrome, and constipation, and the Phα1ß (.1-30 pmol/site, intrathecal) was able to reverse these effects. Finally, the effects produced by the native form of Phα1ß were fully mimicked by a recombinant version of this peptide. Taken together, these data show that Phα1ß was effective in potentiating the analgesia caused by a single dose of morphine as well as in reducing tolerance and the adverse effects induced by repeated administration of morphine, indicating its potential use as an adjuvant drug in combination with opioids. PERSPECTIVE: This article presents preclinical evidence for a useful adjuvant drug in opioid treatment. Phα1ß, a peptide calcium channel blocker, could be used not only to potentiate morphine analgesia but also to reduce the adverse effects caused by repeated administration of morphine.

The effects of Phα1ß, a spider toxin, calcium channel blocker, in a mouse fibromyalgia model.

This study investigated the effects of Phα1ß, pregabalin and diclofenac using an animal model of fibromyalgia (FM). Repeated administration of reserpine (0.25 mg/kg sc) once daily for three consecutive days significantly decreased thermal hyperalgesia, mechanical allodynia, and dopamine and serotonin content in the brain on the 4th day. Phα1ß and pregabalin treatment completely reverted the mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia induced by reserpine treatment on the 4th day, but diclofenac was ineffective. Reserpine treatment significantly increased the immobility time in the forced swim test, which is indicative of depression in the animals. Phα1ß, but not pregabalin, reduced the immobility time (56%), suggesting that Phα1ß may control persistent pathological pain in FM.

Clinical Evidence of the Efficacy of a Mouthwash Containing Propolis for the Control of Plaque and Gingivitis: A Phase II Study.

The aim of this study was to evidence the clinical efficacy of an alcohol-free mouthwash containing 5.0% (W/V) Brazilian green propolis (MGP 5%) for the control of plaque and gingivitis. Twenty five subjects, men and women aging between 18 and 60 years old (35 ± 9), were included in a clinical trials phase II study who had a minimum of 20 sound natural teeth, a mean plaque index of at least 1.5 (PI), and a mean gingival index of at least 1.0 (GI). They were instructed to rinse with 10 mL of mouthwash test for 1 minute, immediately after brushing in the morning and at night. After 45 and 90 days using mouthwash, the results showed a significant reduction in plaque and in gingival index when compared to samples obtained in baseline. These reductions were at 24% and 40%, respectively (P < .5). There were no important side effects in soft and hard tissues of the mouth. In this study, the MGP 5% showed evidence of its efficacy in reducing PI and GI. However, it is necessary to perform a clinical trial, double-blind, randomized to validate such effectiveness.

In vitro antimicrobial activity of Brazilian medicinal plant extracts against pathogenic microorganisms of interest to dentistry.

This study evaluated the susceptibility of oral pathogenic microorganisms Candida albicans, Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans to Brazilian medicinal plant extracts of Schinus terebinthifolius (aroeira), Croton campestris (velame), Lafoensia pacari (pacari), Centaurium erythraea (centáurea), Stryphnodendron adstringens (barbatimão), and Anacardium humile (cajuzinho-docerrado), as compared to standardized antimicrobial agents (nystatin, chloramphenicol and tetracycline hydrochloride). Ethanol, hexane and butane fractions from stem barks, rinds, leaves, and/or roots were extracted and tested. Antimicrobial diffusion agar test and MIC were performed according to CLSI. After 24 h of incubation at 37 °C, the diameter of inhibition zones and spectrophotometer readings were measured and compared. The results were reported as means ± standard deviation (M ± SD). With the exception of five extracts that showed no antimicrobial activity, all the extracts tested showed antimicrobial activity, in different levels. This study suggests that extracts from the plants tested could be an alternative therapeutic option for infectious conditions of the oral cavity, such as denture stomatitis, dental caries, and periodontitis.

Phase II study with mounthrinse containing 5% of propolis for three-months: compliance, appreciation and acceptability of the product / Estudo fase II com colutório contendo própolis 5%: aderência, apreciação e aceitabilidade do produto

A placa dentária é considerada um fator etiológico chave associado a gengivite decorrente. A sua remoção pode ser difícil em pacientes que possuam coordenação motora deficiente ou quaisquer outros problemas. Então, ouso do bochecho como adjunto da escovação no controle da placa bacteriana e da gengivite pode aumentar os benefícios no controle de placa dental. Um estudo de fase II foi utilizado para avaliar a aderência, a apreciação e a aceitabilidade de um enxaguatório bucal sem álcool contendo 5% de própolis verde (EPV 5%) no controle de placa e gengivite durante três meses. Cada indivíduo, ao final do estudo, respondeu a um questionário sobre a apreciação e aceitabilidade do enxaguante bucal. Vinte e um pacientes completaram o estudo, apesar de a maioria deles terem considerado o sabor do EPV 5% desagradável. Eles ficaram satisfeitos com o produto e apontaram as mudanças positivas na saúde bucal após o período de tratamento. Sendo assim, a adesão foi satisfatória (≥80%) sem diferença estatisticamente significante entre os períodos de bochecho da manhã da noite.

Dental plaque is considered a key etiological factor associated with arising gingivitis. Its removal can be difficult in pacients with lack of coordination or any other problems. Then, the use of mouthrinse as adjunct to toothbrushing in control of plaque and gingivitis might increase the benefits of controlling dental plaque. A phase II study was used to evaluate the compliance, appreciation and acceptability of an alcohol-free mouthwash contain 5% green propolis (MGP 5%) in control of plaque and gingivitis for three months. Each subject, at the end of the study, answered a questionnaire about appreciation and acceptance of the mouthwash. Twenty one subjects completed the study, although most of them felt the taste of MGP 5% unpleasant. They were satisfied with the product, pointing positive changes in the oral health after the treatment period. Then, the compliance was satisfactory (≥ 80%) with no statistically significant difference between the periods of rinsing in the morning and at night