Structure determination of hydroxytrypargine: A new tetrahydro-beta-carboline toxin from the venom of the spider Parawixia bistriata

Author(s)

Cesar, Lilian Mari Marcondes ; Tormena, Claudio Francisco ; Marques, Mauricio Ribeiro ; Silva, Gil V. J. ; Mendes, Maria Anita ^[5] ; Rittner, Roberto ; Palma, Mario Sergio

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Helvetica Chimica Acta; v. 88, n. 4, p. 796-801, Apr. 2005.

Abstract

A new, highly active tetrahydro-p-carboline toxin from the spider Parawixia bistriata, the most-common species of social spider occurring in Brazil, was isolated. The new toxin was identified as 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-6-hydroxy-beta-carboline (= N-[3-(2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-6-hydroxy-1H-pyrido[3,4-b]indol-1-yl)propyl]guanidine; 3). This type of alkaloid, not common among spider toxins, was found to be the most-potent constituent of the spider's chemical weaponry to kill prey. When P bistriata catch arthropods in their web, they apparently attack their prey in groups of many individuals injecting their venoms. In vivo toxicity assays with 3 demonstrated a potent lethal effect to honeybees, giving rise to clear neurotoxic effects (paralysis) before death. The compound's toxicity (LD50 value) was determined to be ca. 8 ng/g of honeybee. The investigation of the pharmacological properties and neurotoxic actions of 3 may be used in the future for the development of new drugs to be applied for pest control in agriculture. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 04/07942-2 - Bioprospetion of the Brazilian arthropods fauna searching for leader drugs for rational development of novel pharmaceuticals and pesticides
• Grantee: Mario Sergio Palma
• Support Opportunities: BIOTA-FAPESP Program - Regular Research Grants