Genes prospection and biological activity in silico and in vitro for P. bistriata venom gland

• Grant number: 05/02612-7
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: June 01, 2006
• End date: December 31, 2008
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy
• Principal Investigator: Sonia Marli Zingaretti
• Grantee: Sonia Marli Zingaretti
• Host Institution: Universidade de Ribeirão Preto (UNAERP). Campus Ribeirão Preto. Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Venom from spiders are recognized as a useful source of bioactive compounds, many of these act inhibiting or stimulating receptors, transporters and ion channels, which is associated with their potential analgesic, antidepressant and anticonvulsant activity in mammals or as insecticidal action in invertebrates. Moreover, some compounds present antibacterial, antifungal and antitumoral activities, reinforcing the study perspectives and biotechnological development. Thus, we intend to do gene prospection for biotechnological compounds in Parawixia bistriata venom gland by sequencing a cDNA library and also providing a functional characterization of the found ESTs. (AU)