Macrophage activation, phagocytosis and intracellular calcium oscillations induced by scorpion toxins from Tityus serrulatus

摘要: The research described here is focused upon studying the activation of mice peritoneal macrophages when submitted to in vitro effects Tityus serrulatus scorpion venom and its major toxic peptides. Several functional events were analysed, such as: cytotoxicity, spreading, extent phagocytosis, vacuole formation changes internal calcium concentration. Among main results observed, are subjected soluble venom, a partially purified fraction (FII) or pure toxin (Ts1), an increment percentage phagocytosis formation, decrement spreading ability, accompanied by oscillations net demonstrate that toxins effective stimulators macrophage activity; effect whole fractions due peptides, seen clearly with Ts1. possible involvement Na+-channels these discussed. A basic understanding underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for should serve as foundation novel drug development aimed at modulating activity.