Systemic alterations induced by a Bothrops alternatus hemorrhagic metalloproteinase (baltergin) in mice

C.C. GAY; S.L. MARUÑAK; P. TEIBLER; R. RUIZ; O.C. ACOSTA DE PÉREZ; L.C. LEIVA.

TOXICON

Elsevier

Lugar: Glasgow; Año: 2009 vol. 53 p. 53 - 59

0041-0101

Systemic alterations induced by a Bothrops alternatus hemorrhagin, named baltergin, a 55 kDa fibrinogenolytic metalloproteinase isolated from venom of north-eastern Argentina specimens, were studied in mice. It caused macroscopic hemorrhagic spots in lungs when was injected intravenously with a minimum pulmonary hemorrhagic dose of 10 µg. Histological observations of lungs showed mainly hemorrhagic areas, evidenced by the presence of erythrocytes in the alveolar spaces, congestion and increase of thickness of alveolar septum due polymorphonuclear infiltrate and mononuclear cells. Neither macroscopic hemorrhage in others organs nor histological alterations in heart and cerebrum / cerebellum were observed at doses assayed. However, kidney and liver were mildly affected. Kidney examination revealed congestion, subcapsular hemorrhage with local capsule detachment, inflammatory infiltrate and degeneration of tubular cells. Congestion of blood vessels and hydropic degeneration of hepatocytes were observed in liver. Besides, baltergin was able to further hydrolyze type IV collagen. Although the enzyme showed to be less lethal than whole venom, it induced severe pulmonary bleeding and affected kinder and liver in minor grade. In conclusion, baltergin is able to alter the integrity of capillary vessels and simultaneously, to interfere on the haemostatic system. Thus, this metalloproteinase contribute markedly to systemic alterations characteristic of B. alternatus envenomations.