The acute inflammatory response induced in mice by the venom of the giant ant Dinoponera quadriceps involves macrophage and interleukin-1β.

Dinoponera quadriceps (Hymenoptera, Formicidae, Ponerinae) is a primitive and endemic ant of Northeastern Brazil, that uses its sting and associated venom gland to capture preys and for defense. Venom of Dinoponera is of potential clinical importance, since it causes intense local pain, accompanied by erythema and edema, when injected by the sting. With other hymenopteran venoms, inflammatory effects are also reported.

Venom's antinociceptive property in the primitive ant Dinoponera quadriceps.

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: In northeastern Brazil, Dinoponera (Ponerinae) ants macerate are used to treat ear ache and its sting, rheumatism, and back pain. Such a popular use is a relevant fact that called for experimental evaluation of the antinociceptive activity of Dinoponera venom.

Materials And Methods: Dinoponera quadriceps venom (DqV; 5-500 μg/kg; i.