Clinical cardiac alterations and hemostatic toxicities caused by scorpion (Tityus discrepans) venom and its purified fractions on zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae

Abstract

Envenomation by the Venezuelan scorpion Tityus discrepans is typified by local and systemic alterations. The current work investigated the in vivo hemostatic processes, cardiac dysfunction and tissue destruction triggered by Tityus discrepans purified toxins 1 (3 kDa) and 2 (5 kDa) fractions. These fractions were obtained by C-18-HPLC chromatography. The hemostatic and cardiovascular toxicities in zebrafish of both fractions was assessed by means of specific phenotypic expressions and larvae behavior at 5, 15, 30, 40 and 60 min post-venom-treatment. The Tityus discrepans venom fractions 1 and 2 produced disseminated intravascular coagulation (presence of thrombus) in the central vein of the larva, heart rate/rhythm alterations, and necrotic events in more than 90% of all the larvae under their action. The outcomes have established the potential hemostatic and cardiovascular toxicities by Tityus discrepans venom, alerting on the possibility of cardiovascular injuries and thromboembolism in humans after scorpion stings envenomation.