Effect of the urease-derived peptide Jaburetox on the central nervous system of Triatoma infestans (Insecta: Heteroptera).

Background: Triatoma infestans is the main vector of Chagas'disease in Southern Cone countries. In triatomines, symptoms suggesting neurotoxicity were observed after treatment with Jaburetox (Jbtx), the entomotoxic peptide obtained from jackbean urease. Here, we study its effect in the central nervous system (CNS) of this species.

Antifungal properties of Canavalia ensiformis urease and derived peptides.

Ureases (EC 3.5.1.

Distribution and characterization of Corazonin in the central nervous system of Triatoma infestans (Insecta: Heteroptera).

The distribution of corazonin in the central nervous system of the heteropteran insect Triatoma infestans was studied by immunohistochemistry. The presence of corazonin isoforms was investigated using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry in samples containing the brain, the subesophageal ganglion, the corpora cardiaca-corpus allatum complex and the anterior part of the aorta. Several groups of immunopositive perikarya were detected in the brain, the subesophageal ganglion and the thoracic ganglia.