In vitro cytotoxicity of Rhodnius prolixus hemolytic factor and mellitin towards different trypanosomatids

Braz J Med Biol Res. 1989;22(5):597-9.

Abstract

Trypanosoma cruzi strain Y and clone Dm28c and other trypanosomatids were exposed to two lytic agents, Rhodnius prolixus hemolytic factor (RHF) and mellitin, in vitro. In both cases, the result was a significant decrease in the number of parasites after a 30-min treatment at 37 degrees C. RHF and mellitin had distinct activities on different strains and species of trypanosomatids. These observations suggest that RHF may be an important factor in selecting resistant strains of trypanosomes for development in the vector's gut.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bee Venoms / pharmacology*
  • Cell Membrane / drug effects
  • Cobra Cardiotoxin Proteins / pharmacology*
  • Cytotoxicity, Immunologic
  • Elapid Venoms / pharmacology*
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Melitten / pharmacology*
  • Rhodnius*
  • Triatominae*
  • Trypanosoma cruzi / drug effects*
  • Trypanosomatina / drug effects*

Substances

  • Bee Venoms
  • Cobra Cardiotoxin Proteins
  • Elapid Venoms
  • Melitten