Unraveling the venom proteome of the bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) by integrating a combinatorial peptide ligand library approach with FT-ICR MS. (August 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Van Vaerenbergh, Matthias; Debyser, Griet; Smagghe, Guy; Devreese, Bart; de Graaf, Dirk C.
• Is Part Of: Toxicon. Volume 102(2015)
• Page Start: 81
• Page End: 88
• Publication Date: 2015-08
• Subjects: Bumblebee -- Fourier transform-ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry -- Hymenoptera -- Venom allergy -- Proteomics -- Venom; Toxins -- Periodicals; Venom -- Periodicals; 615.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.10.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0041-0101

Abstract

Abstract: Within the Apidae, the largest family of bees with over 5600 described species, the honeybee is the sole species with a well studied venom proteome. So far, only little research has focused on bumblebee venom. Recently, the genome sequence of the European large earth bumblebee ( Bombus terrestris ) became available and this allowed the first in-depth proteomic analysis of its venom composition. We identified 57 compounds, with 52 of them never described in bumblebee venom. Remarkably, 72% of the detected compounds were found to have a honeybee venom homolog, which reflects the similar defensive function of both venoms and the high degree of homology between both genomes. However, both venoms contain a selection of species-specific toxins, revealing distinct damaging effects that may have evolved in response to species-specific attackers. Further, this study extends the list of potential venom allergens. The availability of both the honeybee and bumblebee venom proteome may help to develop a strategy that solves the current issue of false double sensitivity in allergy diagnosis, which is caused by cross-reactivity between both venoms. A correct diagnosis is important as it is recommended to perform an immunotherapy with venom of the culprit species. Graphical abstract: Highlights: First in-depth proteomic analysis of the venom of a bumblebee species. Identification of 57 compounds, with 52 of them never described in bumblebee venom. 72% of the detected bumblebee venom compounds have a honeybee venom homolog. Honeybee and bumblebee venom contain a selection of species-specific toxins. These results may contribute to an improved venom allergy diagnosis and treatment.