Activity Determinants in Linear Spider Venom Peptide Fragments Against MRSA

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  Activity Determinants in Linear Spider Venom Peptide Fragments Against MRSA Abstract Objective: Using neural networks, we previously identified linear fragments of spider venom peptides active against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Among them, peptide IX (IWLSLMKFAGKHL-NH 2 ) with a C -terminal amide displayed high antibacterial potency, whereas its non-amidated analogue, peptide X, was inactive. Peptide IX incorporates into zwitterionic multilamellar liposomes of dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC) without disrupting them, and also into anionic liposomes of dioleoylphosphatidylglycerol (DOPG) mimicking the MRSA cell membrane, leading to bilayer disruption. This study aims to elucidate the reasons for peptide X inactivation.  Methods: According to ¹H NMR spectroscopy, peptide X in water is governed by the ionization of the His12 residue. ³¹P NMR data show that peptide X interacts with DOPC and DOPG membranes. Monte Carlo simulations revealed conformati...

Predatoroonops naru (Araneae: Oonopidae): a new goblin spider species from Brazil

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Predatoroonops naru (Araneae: Oonopidae): a new goblin spider species from Brazil

Abstract 

A new species, Predatoroonops naru sp. nov. (Araneae: Oonopidae: Oonopinae), is described based on specimens collected in the Reserva Biológica Duas Bocas, municipality of Cariacica, state of Espírito Santo, Brazil. The description is based on both male and female specimens, providing a detailed morphological characterization of the species. This record expands the knowledge of the genus diversity in the Atlantic Forest and highlights the importance of protected areas for maintaining the diversity of leaf-litter spiders in this biome.

Oliveira-Santos, M. & Santos, A. J. (2026). Predatoroonops naru (Araneae: Oonopidae): a new goblin spider species from Brazil. Arachnology 20(5): 688-692.