RESUMO
Abstract Specimens (50) of Leptophis nigromarginatus from northern Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and Colombia were examined for the composition of stomach contents. Most prey items were tree frogs, especially those of the family Hylidae (96%). Most of the anurans identified belong to the Scinax ruber species group (14%) and Scinax sp. (8%). Both sexes preyed on small-sized items (1.8-4.4% of snake snout-vent length), but females capture larger prey than males. Leptophis nigromarginatus seems to manipulate captured prey before ingestion since most of the prey items (68%) were swallowed head-first. There is a positive correlation between female snout-vent length and prey size and between and head length and prey size.
Resumo Espécimes (50) de Leptophis nigromarginatus do Norte do Brasil, Peru, Equador e Colômbia foram examinados quanto à composição do conteúdo estomacal. A maioria das presas eram pererecas, especialmente as da família Hylidae (96%). A maioria dos anuros identificados pertence ao grupo de espécies Scinax ruber (14%) e Scinax sp. (8%). Ambos os sexos predaram itens de pequeno porte (1,8-4,4% do comprimento focinho-cloaca da serpente), mas as fêmeas capturam presas maiores que os machos. Leptophis nigromarginatus parece manipular as presas capturadas antes da ingestão, uma vez que a maioria das presas (68%) foi engolida pela cabeça. Há uma correlação positiva entre o comprimento do focinho-cloaca da fêmea e o tamanho da presa e entre o comprimento da cabeça e o tamanho da presa.
RESUMO
Abstract Amphisbaenians are fossorial reptiles that have a cylindrical and elongated body covered with scales arranged in rings, and are all apodal, except for the three species of the genus Bipes. The amphisbaenian diet consists of a variety of invertebrates and small vertebrates. As these animals live underground, many aspects of their natural history are difficult to study. Most feeding studies of amphisbaenians have focused on the composition of the diet and feeding ecology, and the data available on feeding behavior are based on precursory observations. The present study describes the food capture behavior of Leposternon microcephalum Wagler, 1824 in captivity. In this experiment we used non-live bait (moist cat food), which was placed near a burrow opening, on the surface of the substrate. Three animals were monitored visually and filmed using cellphone cameras deployed at fixed points, to capture images from the dorsal and lateral perspectives of the study subjects. Two principal types of behavior were observed: the capture of food and defense mechanisms. The strategies used to capture the food were similar to those observed in other fossorial species. Although the backward movement has already been observed and described, we were able to record this movement being used as an escape strategy. These findings enrich our knowledge on different aspects of the natural history of the amphisbaenians.
Resumo Anfisbênas são répteis fossoriais caracterizadas por apresentarem corpo cilíndrico e alongado coberto por escamas dispostas exclusivamente em anéis e todas são ápodas, com exceção das três espécies do gênero Bipes. Sua dieta consiste em uma variedade de invertebrados e pequenos vertebrados. Por viverem no subsolo, muitos aspectos de sua história natural são difíceis de observar. A maioria dos estudos sobre alimentação em anfisbenas concentra-se na dieta e na ecologia alimentar, enquanto as informações sobre o comportamento alimentar se baseiam em observações preliminares. O objetivo deste artigo foi descrever o comportamento de captura de alimentos exibido por Leposternon microcephalum Wagler, 1824, fora da galeria, em cativeiro. Para o experimento foi utilizada uma isca não viva, ração úmida de gato, que foi oferecida e posicionada próxima a uma das aberturas da galeria, na superfície do solo. Um total de três animais foi analisadopor meio de observações visuais e registros de câmeras de telefones celulares posicionadas em um ponto fixo, captando imagens de suas vistas dorsal e lateral. Foram detectados dois tipos principais de comportamento: captura de recursos alimentares e mecanismo de defesa. As estratégias utilizadas para capturar o recurso alimentar foram semelhantes às observadas em outras espécies fossoriais. Embora o movimento de marcha-à-ré tenha sido observado e descrito, o registramos sendo usado como uma estratégia de fuga. Esses resultados contribuem para enriquecer o conhecimento sobre diferentes aspectos da história natural dos Amphisbaenia.
RESUMO
Background: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a serious microvascular complication of diabetes that affects both type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients at a high incidence rate. Naja Naja atra venom (NNAV) has been shown to have protective effects and improved renal function in diabetic rats. However, its mechanism of action is still unclear. This study aims to unravel the effectiveness and mechanisms of NNAV on DKD. Methods: We conducted in vitro experiments in which Human Kidney-2 (HK-2) cells were stimulated with high glucose, and exposed to varying concentrations of NNAV. Cell morphology, as well as α-SMA, TGF-ß1, and E-cadherin levels, were analyzed using immunofluorescence and western blot. In vivo experiments involved a diabetic rat model, where varying concentrations of cobra α-neurotoxin (CTX) were administrated via gastric treatment. We observed and noted pathomorphological changes, measured biochemical and oxidative stress indices, and used western blot to assess podocin and nephrin levels. Results: High glucose levels can induce a decrease in E-cadherin expression and an increase in α-SMA and transforming growth factor-ß1 (TGF-ß1) expression in HK-2 cells. NNAV can inhibit the transdifferentiation of HK-2 cells to myofibroblast (MyoF) in a high glucose environment and reduce the expression of TGF-ß1. Cobra α-neurotoxin (CTX) can reduce urine protein in diabetes model rats at an early stage, which is dose-independent and has a time application range. CTX can regulate the expression of nephrin and podocin. Conclusion: The present study indicates that CTX and NNAV attenuate STZ and high glucose-induced DKD. Its mechanisms of action are associated with inhibiting oxidative stress and TEMT. The study suggests that NNAV and CTX might be a potential therapeutic drug for treating DKD.
RESUMO
Background: Bivalent freeze-dried neurotoxic (FN) antivenom has been the primary treatment since the 1980s for Taiwan cobra (Naja atra) envenomation in Taiwan. However, envenomation-related wound necrosis is a significant problem after cobra snakebites. In the present study, we analyzed the changes in serum venom concentration before and after antivenom administration to discover their clinical implications and the surgical treatment options for wound necrosis. Methods: The patients were divided into limb swelling and wound necrosis groups. The clinical outcome was that swelling started to subside 12 hours after antivenom treatment in the first group. Serum venom concentrations before and after using antivenoms were measured to assess the antivenom's ability to neutralize the circulating cobra venom. The venom levels in wound wet dressing gauzes, blister fluids, and debrided tissues were also investigated to determine their clinical significance. We also observed the evolutional changes of wound necrosis and chose a better wound debridement timing. Results: We prospectively enrolled 15 Taiwan cobra snakebite patients. Males accounted for most of this study population (n = 11, 73%). The wound necrosis group received more antivenom doses than the limb swelling group (4; IQR:2-6 vs 1; IQR:1-2, p = 0.05), and less records of serum venom concentrations changed before/after antivenom use (p = 0.0079). The necrotic wound site may release venom into circulation and cause more severe envenomation symptoms. Antivenom can efficiently diminish limb swelling in cobra bite patients. However, antivenom cannot reduce wound necrosis. Patients with early debridement of wound necrosis had a better limb outcome, while late or without debridement may have long-term hospital stay and distal limb morbidity. Conclusions: Antivenom can efficiently eliminate the circulating cobra venom in limb swelling patients without wound necrosis. Early debridement of the bite site wound and wet dressing management are suggestions for preventing extended tissue necrosis and hospital stay.
RESUMO
Abstract Somatic characters are shared by many Chelodesmidae groups, and generic placement and species identifications traditionally have been based on gonopodal morphology. Female genitalic characters have been largely neglected and are rarely photographed or illustrated. This is rather unfortunate as the morphology of female genitalia presents important characters and may be decisive for developing a more robust family classification. We describe the heretofore unknown female of Sandalodesmus araujoi (Schubart, 1946), previously known only from the male holotype collected in São Paulo, Brazil in December 1943; discuss the utility of female genitalic characters for species delineation in Sandalodesmus; and report the first case of a mass occurrence in the Chelodesmidae. While an attempt at a formal diagnosis of Sandalodesmus females based on genitalic characters is premature, the vulvar morphology of the three taxa examined in this study suggests that female genitalia are species-specific. Some characters (i.e., asymmetric valves, presence of digitiform projections and reduction of setae on the internal basal portion of the valves) are constant between the species, suggesting utility for generic-level delineation. Mass occurrences of millipedes are typically unpredictable and likely related to variations in environmental conditions and/or anthropogenic modifications of natural habitats. Although the mass occurrence of S. araujoi reported herein was only observed once, the event coincides with the mating period of millipedes during the rainy season in Brazil. On the other hand, the region where the species was found has been the target of intense urban development, including replacement of natural habitats with residential areas, which may have influenced its population dynamics.
Resumo Os caracteres somáticos são compartilhados por muitos grupos de Chelodesmidae, e o posicionamento genérico e as identificações de espécies tradicionalmente têm sido baseadas na morfologia do gonópodo. Carateres genitais das fêmeas foram amplamente negligenciados e raramente são fotografados ou ilustrados. Isso é lamentável, pois a morfologia da genitália feminina apresenta características importantes e pode ser decisiva para o desenvolvimento de uma classificação mais robusta. Neste trabalho, descrevemos a até então desconhecida fêmea de Sandalodesmus araujoi (Schubart, 1946), anteriormente conhecida apenas pelo holótipo macho coletado em São Paulo, Brasil, em dezembro de 1943; discutimos a utilidade de caracteres genitais femininos para delineamento de espécies em Sandalodesmus; e relatamos o primeiro caso de ocorrência em massa para Chelodesmidae. Embora uma tentativa de diagnose formal para fêmeas de Sandalodesmus com base em caracteres genitais seja prematura, a morfologia vulvar dos três táxons examinados neste estudo, sugere que a genitália feminina é espécie-específica. Alguns caracteres (e.g. válvulas assimétricas, presença de projeções digitiformes e redução de cerdas na margem interna das válvas) são constantes entre as espécies do gênero, sugerindo utilidade para delineamento em nível genérico. Ocorrências em massa de milípedes são tipicamente imprevisíveis e provavelmente relacionadas a variações nas condições ambientais e/ou modificações antropogênicas de habitats naturais. Embora a ocorrência em massa de S. araujoi aqui relatada tenha sido observada apenas uma vez, o evento coincide com o período de reprodução dos milípedes durante a estação chuvosa no Brasil. Por outro lado, a região onde a espécie foi encontrada tem sido alvo de intenso desenvolvimento urbano, incluindo substituição de habitats naturais por áreas residenciais, o que pode ter influenciado sua dinâmica populacional.
RESUMO
Background: Bivalent freeze-dried neurotoxic (FN) antivenom has been the primary treatment since the 1980s for Taiwan cobra (Naja atra) envenomation in Taiwan. However, envenomation-related wound necrosis is a significant problem after cobra snakebites. In the present study, we analyzed the changes in serum venom concentration before and after antivenom administration to discover their clinical implications and the surgical treatment options for wound necrosis. Methods: The patients were divided into limb swelling and wound necrosis groups. The clinical outcome was that swelling started to subside 12 hours after antivenom treatment in the first group. Serum venom concentrations before and after using antivenoms were measured to assess the antivenom's ability to neutralize the circulating cobra venom. The venom levels in wound wet dressing gauzes, blister fluids, and debrided tissues were also investigated to determine their clinical significance. We also observed the evolutional changes of wound necrosis and chose a better wound debridement timing. Results: We prospectively enrolled 15 Taiwan cobra snakebite patients. Males accounted for most of this study population (n = 11, 73%). The wound necrosis group received more antivenom doses than the limb swelling group (4; IQR:2-6 vs 1; IQR:1-2, p = 0.05), and less records of serum venom concentrations changed before/after antivenom use (p = 0.0079). The necrotic wound site may release venom into circulation and cause more severe envenomation symptoms. Antivenom can efficiently diminish limb swelling in cobra bite patients. However, antivenom cannot reduce wound necrosis. Patients with early debridement of wound necrosis had a better limb outcome, while late or without debridement may have long-term hospital stay and distal limb morbidity. Conclusions: Antivenom can efficiently eliminate the circulating cobra venom in limb swelling patients without wound necrosis. Early debridement of the bite site wound and wet dressing management are suggestions for preventing extended tissue necrosis and hospital stay.(AU)
Assuntos
Animais , Mordeduras de Serpentes/terapia , Agentes Neurotóxicos/efeitos adversos , Taiwan , Necrose/terapiaRESUMO
Somatic characters are shared by many Chelodesmidae groups, and generic placement and species identifications traditionally have been based on gonopodal morphology. Female genitalic characters have been largely neglected and are rarely photographed or illustrated. This is rather unfortunate as the morphology of female genitalia presents important characters and may be decisive for developing a more robust family classification. We describe the heretofore unknown female of Sandalodesmus araujoi (Schubart, 1946), previously known only from the male holotype collected in São Paulo, Brazil in December 1943; discuss the utility of female genitalic characters for species delineation in Sandalodesmus; and report the first case of a mass occurrence in the Chelodesmidae. While an attempt at a formal diagnosis of Sandalodesmus females based on genitalic characters is premature, the vulvar morphology of the three taxa examined in this study suggests that female genitalia are species-specific. Some characters (i.e., asymmetric valves, presence of digitiform projections and reduction of setae on the internal basal portion of the valves) are constant between the species, suggesting utility for generic-level delineation. Mass occurrences of millipedes are typically unpredictable and likely related to variations in environmental conditions and/or anthropogenic modifications of natural habitats. Although the mass occurrence of S. araujoi reported herein was only observed once, the event coincides with the mating period of millipedes during the rainy season in Brazil. On the other hand, the region where the species was found has been the target of intense urban development, including replacement of natural habitats with residential areas, which may have influenced its population dynamics.
Os caracteres somáticos são compartilhados por muitos grupos de Chelodesmidae, e o posicionamento genérico e as identificações de espécies tradicionalmente têm sido baseadas na morfologia do gonópodo. Carateres genitais das fêmeas foram amplamente negligenciados e raramente são fotografados ou ilustrados. Isso é lamentável, pois a morfologia da genitália feminina apresenta características importantes e pode ser decisiva para o desenvolvimento de uma classificação mais robusta. Neste trabalho, descrevemos a até então desconhecida fêmea de Sandalodesmus araujoi (Schubart, 1946)
RESUMO
Background: The cardiovascular system is one of the first systems to be affected by snake toxins; but not many toxins exert a direct effect on the heart. Cobra venom cardiotoxins are among those few toxins that attack the heart. Although the two cardiotoxin types (S and P) differ in their central-loop structure, it is not known whether they differ in their effect on the mammalian heart. We compared the effects of S- and P-type cardiotoxins, CTÐ¥-1 and CTÐ¥-2, respectively, from the cobra Naja oxiana, on the isolated rat heart. Methods: An isolated rat heart perfused according to the Langendorff technique was used in this study to investigate the activity of cardiotoxins CTX-1 and CTX-2. The following parameters were registered: the left ventricular developed pressure, calculated as the difference between systolic and diastolic pressure in the left ventricle, the end-diastolic pressure, the heart rate, time to maximal end-diastolic pressure (heart contracture), and time to depression of the heart contraction. Results: Both cardiotoxins at the concentration of 5 µg/mL initially produce a slight increase in systolic intraventricular pressure, followed by its rapid decrease with a simultaneous increase in diastolic intraventricular pressure until reaching contracture. CTX-2 blocks cardiac contractions faster than CTX-1; in its presence the maximum diastolic pressure is reached faster and the magnitude of the developed contracture is higher. Conclusion: The P-type cardiotoxin CTX-2 more strongly impairs rat heart functional activity than the S-type cardiotoxin CTX-1, as expressed in its faster blockage of cardiac contractions as well as in more rapid development and greater magnitude of contracture in its presence.
RESUMO
In Brazil, snakebites are often cited as a cause of mortality in ruminants, but there are discrepancies in the literature regarding its actual prevalence, either by lack of diagnosis or by mistakes in the differential diagnosis. Among the factors that hinder the diagnosis are included the inconsistencies to distinguish between accidents caused by Bothrops and Crotalus, responsible for over 90% of the cases. For the diagnosis of accidents involving Lachesis muta, both the neurotropic and the proteolytic/hemolytic effects must be considered, similar to what is described in Crotalus scutulatus. This article describes the main clinical, pathological, and laboratory findings observed in envenoming by the aforementioned snakes and suggests procedures for establishing the diagnosis and differential diagnosis starting from a logical sequence, based on epidemiological evidence, clinical, laboratory, and pathological findings.
No Brasil, acidentes ofídicos são frequentemente citados como causa de mortalidade em ruminantes, mas existem discrepâncias em relação a sua atual prevalência, seja por falta de diagnóstico ou por erros no diagnóstico diferencial. Entre os fatores que dificultam o diagnóstico estão as inconsistências para distinguir entre os acidentes causados por Bothrops e Crotalus, responsáveis por mais de 90% dos casos. Para o diagnóstico de envenenamentos por Lachesis muta, devem ser considerados os efeitos neurotrópico e proteolítico/hemolíticos concomitantes, a exemplo do que ocorre com algumas cascavéis norte-americanas (Crotalus scutulatus, entre elas). Este artigo descreve os principais achados clinicopatológicos e laboratoriais observados em casos de envenenamento pelas serpentes citadas e sugere um roteiro simplificado para o estabelecimento do diagnóstico e diagnóstico diferencial, a partir de uma sequência lógica, baseada em evidências epidemiológicas e achados clínicos, laboratoriais e patológicos.
Assuntos
Animais , Mordeduras de Serpentes/diagnóstico , Mordeduras de Serpentes/mortalidade , Crotalus , Bothrops , Mordeduras de Serpentes/veterinária , RuminantesRESUMO
Background: The cardiovascular system is one of the first systems to be affected by snake toxins; but not many toxins exert a direct effect on the heart. Cobra venom cardiotoxins are among those few toxins that attack the heart. Although the two cardiotoxin types (S and P) differ in their central-loop structure, it is not known whether they differ in their effect on the mammalian heart. We compared the effects of S- and P-type cardiotoxins, CTÐ¥-1 and CTÐ¥-2, respectively, from the cobra Naja oxiana, on the isolated rat heart. Methods: An isolated rat heart perfused according to the Langendorff technique was used in this study to investigate the activity of cardiotoxins CTX-1 and CTX-2. The following parameters were registered: the left ventricular developed pressure, calculated as the difference between systolic and diastolic pressure in the left ventricle, the end-diastolic pressure, the heart rate, time to maximal end-diastolic pressure (heart contracture), and time to depression of the heart contraction. Results: Both cardiotoxins at the concentration of 5 µg/mL initially produce a slight increase in systolic intraventricular pressure, followed by its rapid decrease with a simultaneous increase in diastolic intraventricular pressure until reaching contracture. CTX-2 blocks cardiac contractions faster than CTX-1; in its presence the maximum diastolic pressure is reached faster and the magnitude of the developed contracture is higher. Conclusion: The P-type cardiotoxin CTX-2 more strongly impairs rat heart functional activity than the S-type cardiotoxin CTX-1, as expressed in its faster blockage of cardiac contractions as well as in more rapid development and greater magnitude of contracture in its presence.(AU)
Assuntos
Animais , Ratos , Proteínas Cardiotóxicas de Elapídeos/química , Venenos Elapídicos/toxicidade , Coração/fisiologiaRESUMO
The millipede Chondromorpha xanthotricha, supposedly native to Sri Lanka and southern India, is considered a pantropical species occurring in Southeast Asia, North America, Mesoamerica, the Caribbean, Central America and northern South America. Here we report the first record of this species for Brazil, in the central Amazon region of the country, with taxonomic notes and images of male and female specimens.(AU)
O diplópode Chondromorpha xanthotricha, supostamente nativo do Sri Lanka e sul da Índia, é considerado uma espécie pantropical com ocorrência no Sudeste Asiático, América do Norte, Mesoamérica, Caribe, América Central e norte da América do Sul. Aqui nós reportamos o primeiro registro dessa espécie para o Brasil, na região central da Amazônia brasileira, com notas taxonômicas e ilustrações de espécimes macho e fêmea.(AU)
Assuntos
Animais , Masculino , Feminino , Espécies Introduzidas , Quilópodes/classificação , Especificidade da Espécie , BrasilRESUMO
Snakebite envenomation is considered a neglected tropical disease, affecting tens of thousands of people each year. The recommended treatment is the use of antivenom, which is composed of immunoglobulins or immunoglobulin fragments obtained from the plasma of animals hyperimmunized with one (monospecific) or several (polyspecific) venoms. In this review, the efforts made in the improvement of the already available antivenoms and the development of new antivenoms, focusing on snakes of medical importance from sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, are described. Some antivenoms currently used are composed of whole IgGs, whereas others use F(ab’)2 fragments. The classic methods of attaining snake antivenoms are presented, in addition to new strategies to improve their effectiveness. Punctual changes in immunization protocols, in addition to the use of cross-reactivity between venoms from different snakes for the manufacture of more potent and widely used antivenoms, are presented. It is known that venoms are a complex mixture of components; however, advances in the field of antivenoms have shown that there are key toxins that, if effectively blocked, are capable of reversing the condition of in vivo envenomation. These studies provide an opportunity for the use of monoclonal antibodies in the development of new-generation antivenoms. Thus, monoclonal antibodies and their fragments are described as a possible alternative for the production of antivenoms, regardless of the venom. This review also highlights the challenges associated with their development.
O envenenamento por picada de cobra é considerado uma doença tropical negligenciada, afetando dezenas de milhares de pessoas a cada ano. O tratamento recomendado é o uso de antiveneno, que é composto por imunoglobulinas ou fragmentos de imunoglobulinas obtidos do plasma de animais hiperimunizados com um (monoespecífico) ou vários (poliespecíficos) venenos. Nesta revisão, são descritos os esforços realizados no aprimoramento dos antivenenos já disponíveis e no desenvolvimento de novos antivenenos, com foco em serpentes de importância médica da África Subsaariana e América Latina. Alguns antivenenos atualmente utilizados são compostos por IgGs inteiros, enquanto outros usam fragmentos F(ab’)2. São apresentados os métodos clássicos de obtenção de soros de serpentes, além de novas estratégias para melhorar sua eficácia. São apresentadas mudanças pontuais nos protocolos de imunização, além do uso de reatividade cruzada entre venenos de diferentes serpentes para a fabricação de antivenenos mais potentes e amplamente utilizados. Sabe-se que os venenos são uma mistura complexa de componentes; no entanto, avanços na área de antivenenos mostraram que existem toxinas-chave que, se efetivamente bloqueadas, são capazes de reverter a condição de envenenamento in vivo. Esses estudos oferecem uma oportunidade para o uso de anticorpos monoclonais no desenvolvimento de antivenenos de nova geração. Assim, anticorpos monoclonais e seus fragmentos são descritos como uma possível alternativa para a produção de antivenenos, independente do veneno. Esta revisão também destaca os desafios associados ao seu desenvolvimento.
RESUMO
Venom of cobras of genus Naja, including Naja kaouthia, can relieve pain in acute and chronic conditions. We investigated the effects of oral and intraplantar administration of the Naja kaouthia venom and its fractions on painrelated responses in an inflammatory pain model in rats. Male Wistar rats received a hind paw injection of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) to induce inflammatory pain and either oral or intraplantar administration of Naja kaouthia venom and its fractions (fractions 1 to 5). In addition, separate groups of rats with oral administration of fraction 3 of the Naja kaouthia venom also received either μ-, κ- or δ-opioid receptor antagonists, which were injected into the hind paw by intraplantar route. Mechanical thresholds were assessed on the hind paw before and after treatments. Fractionation of Naja kaouthia venom was performed using size exclusion chromatography. Naja kaouthia venom reduced pain-related responses in the inflammatory pain model when administered by oral and intraplantar routes. Fractions 1, 3, 4 and 5 of the Naja kaouthia venom administered by oral route decreased PGE2-induced pain sensitivity, while fraction 2 did not modify pain-related responses. Hind paw injection of naloxone, a non-specific opioid receptor antagonist, abolished the analgesic effects of the Naja kaouthia venom as well of that for fraction 3. Additionally, hind paw injection of either μ-, κ- or δ-opioid receptor antagonists blocked the pain relief induced by fraction 3. This study indicates that the Naja kaouthia venom and its fractionated forms, particularly fraction 3, may be potential therapeutic targets for pain management and peripheral opioid receptors mediate the pain relief induced by fraction 3.
RESUMO
O presente estudo tem como objetivo principal investigar a paternidade de ninhadas de Erythrolamprus miliaris (Squamata: Serpentes) nascidas em cativeiro, empregando marcadores moleculares do tipo microssatélites amplificados a partir de primers heterólogos, isto é, obtidos de outras espécies de serpentes. Os estudos foram realizados em três casais de seus respectivos filhotes (16 no total), que nasceram após procedimentos de inseminação artificial. O DNA de cada indivíduo foi extraído de fragmentos de fígado e/ou escamas ventrais e cada amostra foi submetida à reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR), empregando os primers de microssatélites originalmente desenvolvidos para as serpentes Agkistrodon contortrix, Boa constrictor imperator, Epicrates subflavus, Bothrops marmoratus, B. pauloensis, B. insularis e Diadophis punctatus. Após reação de PCR, o DNA amplificado foi submetido à eletroforese em gel de agarose e, de todos os primers utilizados e testados com base em diferentes parâmetros, somente um resultou na correlação de parentesco em cada uma das famílias. As bandas geradas em gel de agarose evidenciaram possível paternidade múltipla em cada uma das três famílias, uma vez que cada um dos casais é homozigoto e teve filhos que (i) compartilham única e exclusivamente a mesma banda dos pais e, adicionalmente, (ii) filhos com duas bandas (heterozigotos), uma das quais não é compartilhada com nenhum dos parentais. O presente estudo é inédito para E. miliaris e obteve resultados preliminares promissores para a compreensão da reprodução da espécie, a partir de um par de primers desenhados para Bothrops insularis; indicou também que outros sete pares de primers heterólogos não funcionaram para espécie. Como essas informações foram obtidas para somente um marcador, o presente estudo será continuado para testar primers desenhados para uma espécie filogeneticamente mais próxima de E. miliaris.
RESUMO
BACKGROUND: Naja mandalayensis is a spitting cobra from Myanmar. To the best of our knowledge, no studies on this venom composition have been conducted so far. On the other hand, few envenomation descriptions state that it elicits mainly local inflammation in the victims' eyes, the preferred target of this spiting cobra. Symptoms would typically include burning and painful sensation, conjunctivitis, edema and temporary loss of vision. METHODS: We have performed a liquid-chromatography (C18-RP-HPLC) mass spectrometry (ESI-IT-TOF/MS) based approach in order to biochemically characterize N. mandalayensis venom. RESULTS: A wide variety of three-finger toxins (cardiotoxins) and metallopeptidases were detected. Less abundant, but still representative, were cysteine-rich secretory proteins, L-amino-acid oxidases, phospholipases A2, venom 5'-nucleotidase and a serine peptidase inhibitor. Other proteins were present, but were detected in a relatively small concentration. CONCLUSION: The present study set the basis for a better comprehension of the envenomation from a molecular perspective and, by increasing the interest and information available for this species, allows future venom comparisons among cobras and their diverse venom proteins.
RESUMO
The COBRA-like (COBL) gene family has been associated with the regulation of cell wall expansion and cellulose deposition. COBL mutants result in reduced levels and disorganized deposition of cellulose causing defects in the cell wall and inhibiting plant development. In this study, we report the identification of 24 COBL genes (GmCOBL) in the soybean genome. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the COBL proteins are divided into two groups, which differ by about 170 amino acids in the N-terminal region. The GmCOBL genes were heterogeneously distributed in 14 of the 20 soybean chromosomes. This study showed that segmental duplication has contributed significantly to the expansion of the COBL family in soybean during all Glycine-specific whole-genome duplication events. The expression profile revealed that the expression of the paralogous genes is highly variable between organs and tissues of the plant. Only 20% of the paralogous gene pairs showed similar expression patterns. The high expression levels of some GmCOBLs suggest they are likely essential for regulating cell expansion during the whole soybean life cycle. Our comprehensive overview of the COBL gene family in soybean provides useful information for further understanding the evolution and diversification of COBL genes in soybean.
RESUMO
Greater access to the Internet has boosted the online pet trade and especially enabled the trade in niche-targeted groups, such as venomous species. Despite their fearsome reputation, an array of venomous animals, such as snakes, spiders and scorpions arise interest among pet hobbyists, which exposes owners, sellers, and others involved in their transport and maintenance to potentially serious accidents by envenomation. To assess the potential risk to human health posed by the trade and ownership of venomous pet snakes, we examined social media posts trading or portraying native and exotic venomous species as pets (Facebook™ and YouTube™) and official seizures in Brazil between 2015 and 2020. In addition, we recorded all venomous snakebite events occurring in the country during the same period from the Brazilian Ministry of Health database. We compiled 114,931 venomous snakebite events resulting in over 600 human deaths. Bothrops spp. and Crotalus spp. were responsible for 86% and 10% of these events. We recorded 241 individual venomous snakes kept as pets of at least 16 species (seven native and nine non-native). The taxa with higher numbers of snakebites were also those most often kept as pets. Venomous pet snakes were sold at low prices, US$ 71.70 ± 18.44 on average. Our findings highlight a dangerous market, given the similarity of taxa raised as pets and those causing snakebites, combined with low availability of anti-venom for exotic species in Brazil. Additionally, several of the venomous pet snakes recorded are invasive species in many countries. Trade in venomous snakes is prohibited in Brazil, but the law is not well-enforced. To curb this illegal market and discourage consumer demand, we suggest that tougher penalties for sellers and owners should be considered, along with the development of awareness campaigns on the consequences of the snakebite injuries and the lack of antivenoms.
Assuntos
Animais de Estimação , Mordeduras de Serpentes , Animais , Antivenenos , Bothrops , Brasil/epidemiologia , Crotalus , Humanos , Mordeduras de Serpentes/epidemiologia , SerpentesRESUMO
Bacterial resistance is a sanitary issue explained by indiscriminate use of nonprescription drugs, and antimicrobial use in food production for growth promotion. Bothropstoxin-I (BthTx-I) is a phospholipase A2 (PLA2) from Bothrops jararacussu venom, which has a known antimicrobial effect. The goal of this study was the unprecedented evaluation of in vivo antimicrobial activity of BthTx-I in broilers. Microbiological, biochemical, and histological parameters were determined using 84 21-day old broilers that were kept in cages with four birds each at a density of 625 cm2/broiler. The experiment was randomized by three treatments with seven repetitions of four broilers each that lasted seven days. The treatments were: 1) bacitracin zinc diet; 2) PLA2-BthTx-I; 3) without additives. The data obtained from the studied variables was subjected to analysis of variance and an F-test at the 5% significance level. Averages of each variable in each treatment were compared by Tukeyâs test. Broiler bacterial cloacal counts showed that BthTx-I decreased the microbial population without reducing body weight, intestinal morphology, or liver or kidney histopathological damage. The toxin showed in vivo activity, being an alternative for better performance in the production of broiler chickens, because it acted by decreasing the microbial load of potentially pathogenic bacteria in the intestinal
A resistência bacteriana é uma questão sanitária, explicada pelo uso indiscriminado de medicamentos sem receita médica e pelo uso de antimicrobianos na produção de alimentos para promover o crescimento. Bothropstoxin-I (BthTx-I) é uma fosfolipase A2 (PLA2) obtida do veneno da Bothrops jararacussu. A PLA2 do veneno de cobra tem efeito antimicrobiano conhecido. Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar sem precedentes a atividade antimicrobiana in vivo de BthTx-I em frangos de corte. Os parâmetros microbiológicos, bioquímicos e histológicos foram realizados em 84 frangos de corte com 21 dias de idade mantidos em gaiolas com quatro animais cada e densidade de 625 cm2/frango. O experimento foi dividido em três tratamentos com sete repetições de quatro frangos cada um, com duração de sete dias. Os tratamentos foram: 1) dieta com bacitracina de zinco; 2) PLA2-BthTx-I; 3) sem aditivos. Os dados obtidos das variáveis estudadas foram submetidos à análise de variância e teste F ao nível de significância de 5%. As médias dos tratamentos em cada variável foram comparadas pelo teste de Tukey. A contagem cloacal bacteriana de frangos de corte mostrou que o BthTx-I diminuiu a população microbiana sem comprometer o peso corporal, a morfologia intestinal ou causar danos histopatológico no fígado e rins. Concluiu-se que a toxina apresentou atividade in vivo, sendo uma alternativa para um melhor desempenho na produção de frangos de corte, pois agiu diminuindo a carga microbiana de bactérias potencialmente patogênicas na microbiota intestinal das aves e não causou danos musculares, hepáticos ou renais na dosagem avaliada.
Assuntos
Animais , Anti-Infecciosos/análise , /administração & dosagem , Galinhas/imunologia , Galinhas/microbiologia , Reações Bioquímicas , Venenos de Serpentes/análise , Venenos de Serpentes/químicaRESUMO
Amphisbenians are limbless reptiles that belong to the order Squamata. Due to their fossorial and secrevie habits, little is known about their morphology, ecology and pathological conditions that may affect them. In this manuscript, we present a brief guide for identification of normal structures as well as traumatic injuries on radiography and necropsy of Amphisbaena alba. From April to September 2019, three cases of A. alba with suspected trauma were referred to the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Paraíba (UFPB). In the clinical evaluation, traumatic injuries were observed, and support therapy was instituted, but they did not resist and died shortly after. Bone fractures and organ ruptures, in addition to specific structures of this species were identified on radiography. A systematic necropsy was performed of all amphisbaenians in order to evaluate external and internal structures, not only to identify lesions but also to investigate the morphological aspects of amphisbenids. Macroscopically, multiple organ fractures and ruptures observed in radiographs were confirmed, in addition to the presence of the cestodes Semenoviella amphisbaenae in the large intestine. Histologically, it was possible to identify normal characteristics and microscopic lesions in the tissues. This is the first study to incorporate morphological, clinical, and pathological aspects of A. alba. This manuscript brings essential information for wildlife veterinarians and pathologists who may have to treat or perform a necropsy on these unique reptiles.(AU)
Anfisbenas são répteis desprovidos de membros que pertencem a ordem Squamata. Devido a seus hábitos fossoriais e reclusos, pouco se conhece sobre sua morfologia, ecologia e condições patológicas que possam afetá-las. Neste artigo, um guia sucinto para a necropsia, identificação de tecidos e órgãos e lesões encontradas em Amphisbaena alba, é apresentado. Durante março e dezembro de 2019, três casos de A. alba com suspeita de trauma foram encaminhados ao Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal da Paraíba. Na avaliação clínica foram observadas lesões traumáticas e instituído um suporte terapêutico, porém não resistiram e morreram em seguida. Foram realizadas projeções radiográficas onde identificaram fraturas e ruptura de órgãos, além de identificar estruturas específicas dessa espécie. Uma avaliação completa de estruturas externas e internas foi conduzida para investigar aspectos morfológicos dos anfisbenídeos. Macroscopicamente foram confirmadas múltiplas fraturas e rupturas de órgãos observadas anteriormente nas radiografias, além disso evidenciou no intestino grosso presença de parasitos anoplocéfalos denominados Semenoviella amphisbaenae. Na histologia foi possível identificar características normais e lesões microscópicas nos tecidos. Esse é o primeiro estudo a incorporar aspectos morfológicos, clínicos e patológicos de A. alba. Esse manuscrito traz informações essenciais para clínicos e patologistas de animais selvagens que podem se deparar com casos clínicos ou de necropsia de Amphisbaena alba.(AU)
Assuntos
Animais , Répteis/lesões , Autopsia/veterinária , Ferimentos e Lesões , Radiografia , Técnicas e Procedimentos Diagnósticos/mortalidade , Animais SelvagensRESUMO
Naja mandalayensis is a spitting cobra from Myanmar. To the best of our knowledge, no studies on this venom composition have been conducted so far. On the other hand, few envenomation descriptions state that it elicits mainly local inflammation in the victims' eyes, the preferred target of this spiting cobra. Symptoms would typically include burning and painful sensation, conjunctivitis, edema and temporary loss of vision. Methods We have performed a liquid-chromatography (C18-RP-HPLC) mass spectrometry (ESI-IT-TOF/MS) based approach in order to biochemically characterize N. mandalayensis venom. Results A wide variety of three-finger toxins (cardiotoxins) and metallopeptidases were detected. Less abundant, but still representative, were cysteine-rich secretory proteins, L-amino-acid oxidases, phospholipases A2, venom 5'-nucleotidase and a serine peptidase inhibitor. Other proteins were present, but were detected in a relatively small concentration. Conclusion The present study set the basis for a better comprehension of the envenomation from a molecular perspective and, by increasing the interest and information available for this species, allows future venom comparisons among cobras and their diverse venom proteins.(AU)