Characterization of a pro-angiogenic, novel peptide from Russell's viper (Daboia russelii russelii) venom

Present report shows for the first time on the induction of in vitro angiogenesis by a 3.9 kDa novel peptide (RVVAP) purified from Russell's viper venom. Secondary structure of RVVAP is made up of 36.8% α-helix, 33.3% β pleated sheets and 29.9% turns. Optimum angiogenesis and significant elevation in endothelial migration were observed at 50 ng/ml of RVVAP treatment; above this concentration, progressive decrease in wound healing was noted. RVVAP (1.0 μg/ml) was non-cytotoxic to U87-MG, HeLa and HT-29 cells; however, increasing the RVVAP concentration above 500 ng/ml resulted in induction of chromosomal aberrations and delay in cell cycle kinetics of Chinese hamster ovary cells.