Mechanism of Natriuretic peptides
The discovery of venom being used by V. komodoensis is a very recent discovery, so the direct mechanism of the components are still under speculation. However, it is possible that the natriuretic-type toxins in V. komodoensis venom work in a similar fashion to natriuretic peptides and hormones that are found naturally in other vertebrates, such as humans. The mechanisms of these natriuretic peptides are somewhat understood, and are directly involved in the regulation of ion transfer systems. Natriuretic peptides work by inhibiting the transfer of ions, specifically disrupting the activity of Na+/K+ ion pumps (6). Prostaglandins are generated around the inner medullary regions of the body which prevents the reabsorption of Na+ back into cells, altering the chemical gradients within the body (6). This helps in the accumulation of Na+ concentrations to certain areas, effectively causing the vasodilation, diuretic effects, and natriuretic effects that the peptide is responsible for. More research towards the mechanisms of natriuretic-type toxins needs to be performed to confirm this mechanism in V. komodoensis venom(5), but homologies such as the ones found in human systems provide potential explanations and serve as a guide for certain biochemical pathways to consider researching (2) (see picture below).
A flow chart showing the general signal transduction and effects of natriuretic peptides in a human model. ANP= Atrial Natriuretic Peptide, BNP=Brain Natriuretic Peptide, CNP=C-type Natriuretic Peptide. As shown in the diagram, increases in BNP leads to peripheral vasculature, causing vasodilation and a decrease in blood pressure. This is the speculated mechanism that natriuretic-type toxins use. Click image to enlarge. |