Venomous fish from Brazil helps scientists understand inflammation sascha_burgos / iNaturalist Small and difficult to see when it remains partially buried in the sand, the niquim (Thalassophryne nattereri) is a venomous fish found mainly in the North and Northeast of Brazil. Known for the intense pain caused in accidents with fishermen and bathers, it began to be studied by researchers from the Butantan Institute in 1996, who sought to understand why its venom produced injuries different from those observed in other accidents with venomous animals. ? Also follow Terra da Gente on Instagram Studies have shown that the poison triggers an intense inflammatory response, accompanied by pain, swelling and difficulty healing. According to biologist Airton Cesar Silva, it is precisely this unusual behavior that aroused the interest of researchers. "What makes niquim such a fascinating study model is that its venom acts differently from the venom of snakes or spiders. It causes severe ischemia and disorganizes the extracellular matrix of the affected tissue, preventing defense cells from reaching the wound. It is exactly this peculiar mechanism that explains the intense necrosis and extreme difficulty in healing observed in injured fishermen." During this research, scientists characterized new proteins in fish venom, such as Natterins and the lectin Nattectin, expanding knowledge about their components and their effects on the body. As studies advanced, scientific interest no longer focused solely on poisoning. See more news from Terra da Gente, on g1: JUMBARTEE WHALES AND DISCREET BIRDS: Follow Terra da Gente's adventure in Ilhabela (SP) CONCERN: Antidepressant is found in the brains of hammerhead sharks on the coast of Brazil FINDINGS: Park in the interior of SP reveals two new beetles and an insect seen only once in 60 years From poison to 'medicine' These proteins began to be used as a model to investigate the mechanisms involved in inflammation and the functioning of the immune system. "Based on a coastal public health problem, science found unprecedented immunological responses. Proteins are no longer seen just as dangerous toxins and have become molecular 'keys'", he explains. See what's highlighted on g1 today:
Niquim: Brazilian venomous fish helps understand the immune system
Venomous fish from Brazil helps scientists understand inflammation sascha_burgos / iNaturalist Small and difficult to see when it remains partially buried in the sand, the niquim (Thalassophryne nattereri) is a venomous...
Ancient history Another important discovery was the identification of proteins similar to Natterins in hundreds of species from different groups of animals. This finding showed that this family of proteins is much older than previously imagined and can perform biological functions that go beyond poisoning. "Genes encoding proteins similar to Natterins have been identified in hundreds of species, including corals, insects, fungi and even sponges. This shows that this family of proteins has been conserved for millions of years." Despite its dangerous reputation, the niquim is not considered an aggressive fish. Accidents usually occur when fishermen or swimmers step on the animal without realizing its presence, as it remains camouflaged in the sandy or muddy bottom of beaches, estuaries and mangroves. In addition to integrating these coastal ecosystems, the species also contributes to the advancement of science by providing valuable information about inflammatory processes and the functioning of the immune system. The Niquim niquim fish is also called stonefish or puddle frog mouth sascha_burgos / iNaturalist Scientific name: Thalassophryne nattereri Popular name: Niquim Habitat: Shallow waters of beaches, estuaries and mangroves, where it remains partially buried in sand or mud. How accidents occur: Generally when people step on the fish or inadvertently handle it. VIDEOS: Highlights Terra da Gente See more content about nature on Terra da Gente
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