Effects induced by Apis mellifera venom and its components in experimental models of nociceptive and inflammatory pain

Toxicon. 2011 Apr;57(5):764-71. doi: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2011.02.010. Epub 2011 Feb 17.

Abstract

The effects induced by Apis mellifera venom (AMV), melittin-free AMV, fraction with molecular mass < 10 kDa (F<₁₀) or melittin in nociceptive and inflammatory pain models in mice were investigated. Subcutaneous administration of AMV (2, 4 or 6 mg/kg) or melittin-free AMV (1, 2 or 4 mg/kg) into the dorsum of mice inhibited both phases of formaldehyde-induced nociception. However, F<₁₀ (2, 4 or 6 mg/kg) or melittin (2 or 3 mg/kg) inhibited only the second phase. AMV (4 or 6 mg/kg), but not F<₁₀, melittin-free AMV or melittin, induced antinociception in the hot-plate model. Paw injection of AMV (0.05 or 0.10 mg), F<₁₀ (0.05 or 0.1 mg) or melittin (0.025 or 0.050 mg) induced a nociceptive response. In spite of inducing nociception after paw injection, scorpion (Tityus serrulatus) or snake (Bothrops jararaca) venom injected into the dorsum of mice did not inhibit formaldehyde-induced nociception. In addition, AMV (6 mg/kg), but not F<₁₀ (6 mg/kg) or melittin (3 mg/kg), inhibited formaldehyde paw oedema. Concluding, AMV, F<₁₀ and melittin induce two contrasting effects: nociception and antinociception. AMV antinociception involves the action of different components and does not result from non-specific activation of endogenous antinociceptive mechanisms activated by exposure to noxious stimuli.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Analysis of Variance
  • Animals
  • Bee Venoms / toxicity*
  • Formaldehyde / toxicity
  • Inflammation / chemically induced*
  • Male
  • Melitten / toxicity*
  • Mice
  • Motor Activity / drug effects
  • Pain / chemically induced*
  • Pain Measurement

Substances

  • Bee Venoms
  • Formaldehyde
  • Melitten