A novel algesic peptide derived from skin secretions of the frog Amolops loloensis

Several algesic agents including bradykinin and tachykinin have been identified from skin secretions of amphibians. They may act in defensive roles against aggressors. In this study, a novel peptide named Amolos with an amino acid sequence of FLPIVGAKL and isolated from skin secretion of the frog Amolops loloensis, is shown to strengthen nociceptive responses induced by inflammatory factors and strongly inhibit the contraction of isolated ileum. A synthetic peptide based on the sequence obtained showed characterization data identical to those of the isolated material, confirming its structure. These two types of responses seem to be a part of the defensive functions against predators or aggressors. The current results suggest that pharmacological molecules in amphibian skins not only act as innate defense mechanisms against microorganisms but also exert other defensive physiological functions against other aggressors. Copyright (c) 2007 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.