First Bioprospecting Study of Skin Host-Defense Peptides in Odontophrynus americanus

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2024

Authors

Cancelarich, NL (Author) Other; Arrulo, M (Author) Other; Gugliotti, ST (Author) Other; Barbosa, EA (Author) Other; Moreira, DC (Author) Other; Basso, NG (Author) Other; Pérez, LO (Author) Other; Teixeira, C (Author) Other; Paula Gomes (Author) FCUP; de la Torre, BG (Author) Other; Albericio, F (Author) Other; Eaton, P (Author) Other; Leite, JRSA (Author) Other; Marani, MM (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Journal of Natural Products

Vol. 87

Pages: 1714-1724

ISSN: 0163-3864

Publisher: American Chemical Society

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-010-PWF

DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.4c00184

Abstract (EN): The adaptation of amphibians to diverse environments is closely related to the characteristics of their skin. The complex glandular system of frog skin plays a pivotal role in enabling these animals to thrive in both aquatic and terrestrial habitats and consists of crucial functions such as respiration and water balance as well as serving as a defensive barrier due to the secretion of bioactive compounds. We herein report the first investigation on the skin secretion of Odontophrynus americanus, as a potential source of bioactive peptides and also as an indicator of its evolutionary adaptations to changing environments. Americanin-1 was isolated and identified as a neutral peptide exhibiting moderate antibacterial activity against E. coli. Its amphipathic sequence including 19 amino acids and showing a propensity for alpha-helix structure is discussed. Comparisons of the histomorphology of the skin of O. americanus with other previously documented species within the same genus revealed distinctive features in the Patagonian specimen, differing from conspecifics from other Argentine provinces. The presence of the Eberth-Katschenko layer, a prevalence of iridophores, and the existence of glycoconjugates in its serous glands suggest that the integument is adapted to retain skin moisture. This adaptation is consistent with the prevailing aridity of its native habitat.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 11