Document of bibliographic reference 405101

BibliographicReference record

Type

Bibliographic resource

Type of document

Journal article

BibLvlCode

AS

Title

Proteomic analysis and biochemical characterization of the nematocyst extract of the hydrozoan Velella velella

Abstract

The venom contained within cnidarian nematocysts has a complex composition and holds
significant potential for biotechnological applications. In this context, one of the most effective
methods for studying nematocyst contents is the proteomic approach, which can detect even trace
amounts of compounds while minimizing the need for large-scale animal collection, thus helping
to preserve ecosystem integrity. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive proteomic and
biochemical characterization of the crude nematocyst extract from the common hydrozoan Velella
velella. Despite not being harmful to humans, the analysis of the crude venom extract from V.
velella brought to the identification of 783 different proteins, categorized into structural components,
enzymes, and potential toxins, revealing a qualitative composition of the venom similar to that of
other more toxic cnidarians. Biochemical assays confirmed the presence of various active hydrolytic
enzymes within the extract, including proteases, phospholipases, hyaluronidases, DNases, and
chitinases. These findings pave the road for future studies involving the pharmacological applications
of Velella velella venom components through recombinant production and functional testing.

Bibliographic citation

Tassara, E.; Mikšík, I.; Pompach, P.; Mariottini, G.L.; Xiao, L.; Giovine, M.; Pozzolini, M. (2024). Proteomic analysis and biochemical characterization of the nematocyst extract of the hydrozoan Velella velella. Mar. Drugs 22(10): 468. https://dx.doi.org/10.3390/md22100468

Topic

Marine

Is peer reviewed

true

Access rights

open access

Is accessible for free

true