Proteolytic Profile Alterations as One of the Scorpion’s <i>Leiurus macroctenus</i> Envenomation Effects on Kidneys

Abstract

Scorpion envenomation becomes a serious challenge for the healthcare systems in tropical and subtropical regions. Among the variety of organs being affected by the venom, kidneys can accumulate most of the toxins recently after the sting, therefore, the homeostasis, including the proteolytic homeostasis of the renal system during the envenomation is under question. Using the SDS-PAGE and zymography methods we have investigated the proteolytic profile in the rats’ kidneys during the Leiurus macroctenus scorpion envenomation. As it turned out, envenomation leads to the increase of the relative activity of enzymes with collagenolytic, gelatinolytic and fibrinogenolytic properties with molecular weights of 30-50 kDa and 50-70 kDa, simultaneously decreasing the relative activity of proteases with higher molecular weight (70-100 kDa). We have also observed the major changes occurring in 24 hours after the envenomation. We may assume that the obtained results are most likely related either to the formation of proteolytically active fragments of proteases with higher mass, or the excessive expression of proteases with lower mass, yet additional tests need to be conducted to prove these hypotheses. Significant changes in assessed parameters in 24h after the envenomation suggest the increased danger in this period of envenomation for the proteolytic homeostasis in kidneys and the integrity of the renal system overall. Therefore, the described effects can be an important reason for the kidney dysfunctions during the Leiurus macroctenus envenomation.