Marine neurotoxins: Envenomations and contact toxins

Watters, Michael R.; Stommel, Elijah W.

doi:10.1007/s11940-004-0021-8

Cited by 25 publications

(38 citation statements)

References 34 publications

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“…Not all species of jellyfish are poisonous even though they all have stinging cells, and the geographical distribution of venomous ones can be varied depending on the species. In the case of severe stings, however, the victims may show diverse responses, including fever, respiratory distress, and gastrointestinal symptoms of increased secretions, nausea, emesis, abdominal colic, and diarrhea [22], [23]. Major life threatening symptoms are cardiovascular instability with syncope, respiratory insufficiency, and anaphylaxis, which may result in the death of victims [21], [24], [25].…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Protective Effect of Tetracycline against Dermal Toxicity Induced by Jellyfish Venom

et al. 2013

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BackgroundPreviously, we have reported that most, if not all, of the Scyphozoan jellyfish venoms contain multiple components of metalloproteinases, which apparently linked to the venom toxicity. Further, it is also well known that there is a positive correlation between the inflammatory reaction of dermal tissues and their tissue metalloproteinase activity. Based on these, the use of metalloproteinase inhibitors appears to be a promising therapeutic alternative for the treatment of jellyfish envenomation.Methodology and Principal FindingsTetracycline (a metalloproteinase inhibitor) has been examined for its activity to reduce or prevent the dermal toxicity induced by Nemopilema nomurai (Scyphozoa: Rhizostomeae) jellyfish venom (NnV) using in vitro and in vivo models. HaCaT (human keratinocyte) and NIH3T3 (mouse fibroblast) incubated with NnV showed decreases in cell viability, which is associated with the inductions of metalloproteinase-2 and -9. This result suggests that the use of metalloproteinase inhibitors, such as tetracycline, may prevent the jellyfish venom-mediated local tissue damage. In vivo experiments showed that comparing with NnV-alone treatment, tetracycline pre-mixed NnV demonstrated a significantly reduced progression of dermal toxicity upon the inoculation onto rabbit skin.Conclusions/SignificanceIt is believed that there has been no previous report on the therapeutic agent of synthetic chemical origin for the treatment of jellyfish venom-induced dermonecrosis based on understanding its mechanism of action except the use of antivenom treatment. Furthermore, the current study, for the first time, has proposed a novel mechanism-based therapeutic intervention for skin damages caused by jellyfish stings.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Protective Effect of Tetracycline against Dermal Toxicity Induced by Jellyfish Venom

et al. 2013

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“…Carrette [70] appropriately concluded that if the sting is minor or unnoticed and systemic symptoms have already developed, heat application may be useless. In some cases, however, heat is included in the management of C. fleckeri envenomations [73]. A RCT is currently underway evaluating the effectiveness of heat in treating C. fleckeri envenomation (Seymour JE, personal communication).…”

Section: 2 Cubozoans Speciesmentioning

confidence: 99%

Jellyfish Stings and Their Management: A Review

Cegolon

Heymann

Lange³

et al. 2013

Marine Drugs

184

176

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Jellyfish (cnidarians) have a worldwide distribution. Despite most being harmless, some species may cause local and also systemic reactions. Treatment of jellyfish envenomation is directed at: alleviating the local effects of venom, preventing further nematocyst discharges and controlling systemic reactions, including shock. In severe cases, the most important step is stabilizing and maintaining vital functions. With some differences between species, there seems to be evidence and consensus on oral/topical analgesics, hot water and ice packs as effective painkillers and on 30 s application of domestic vinegar (4%–6% acetic acid) to prevent further discharge of unfired nematocysts remaining on the skin. Conversely, alcohol, methylated spirits and fresh water should be carefully avoided, since they could massively discharge nematocysts; pressure immobilization bandaging should also be avoided, as laboratory studies show that it stimulates additional venom discharge from nematocysts. Most treatment approaches are presently founded on relatively weak evidence; therefore, further research (especially randomized clinical trials) is strongly recommended. Dissemination of appropriate treatment modalities should be deployed to better inform and educate those at risk. Adequate signage should be placed at beaches to notify tourists of the jellyfish risk. Swimmers in risky areas should wear protective equipment.

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“…As espécies de caramujos marinhos com alvos já estabelecidos incluem C. magus, C. aulicus, C. regius, C. purpurascens, C. imperialis e C. geographus (OLIVERA & TEICHERT, 2007). O veneno do caramujo marinho do gênero Conus causa acidente grave, com quadros de dor intensa, seguida de parestesia generalizada, além da paralisia neuromuscular e óbito por insufi ciência respiratória relatados em humanos (WATTERS & STOMMEL, 2004).…”

Section: Toxinas De Caramujos Marinhosunclassified