Studies on the antiinflammatory effects of crotoxin, a toxin isolated from Crotalus durissus terrificus snake venom, and participation of glucocorticoids on its antiinflammatory effects

Abstract

Crotoxin (CTX) is the major component of Crotalus durissus terrificus snake venom and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in experimental models, similarly to the whole venom action. This toxin inhibits macrophage functions and leukocyte infiltration into inflammatory sites, and induces increased circulating levels of the cytokine IL-10 and the hormone corticosterone, both relevant endogenous modulators of inflammation. However, the mechanisms involved in CTX-induced anti-inflammatory effects are still unknown. Therefore, by using in vivo and in vitro experimental models in mice, the aim of this study is to evaluate: a) the effects of CTX on both protein expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), a key constitutive and inducible enzyme for prostaglandins synthesis, and the release of the prostaglandin E2 (PGE2); b) participation of endogenous glucocorticoids in these CTX-induced effects as well as in the inhibitory effects of CTX on edema. This study may contribute to understanding the effects of CTX on inflammatory events and the development of new compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.(AU)