The in vitro studies have indicated that cinobufagin induced the cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in OS cells with the involvement of Notch pathway suppression. Moreover, in the in vivo xenograft OS mouse model, cinobufagin inhibited OS cell growth with a suitable drug tolerance 55. Previous reviews are mostly focused on the therapeutic effects of whole extracts, such as Chansu and Huachansu. Thus, we believe that it is important to understand the effect of individual compounds, which would enable us to explore the development of toad toxins as medicines.
Toxin gland size
On the other hand, birds and small mammals that consume Gulf Coast toads may not have the same level of resistance or tolerance. For these animals, ingesting even a small amount of bufotoxins can lead to serious consequences, including cardiac arrest or neurological impairment. The susceptibility of other animals to Gulf Coast toad toxins depends on factors such as size, physiology, and evolutionary adaptations.
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It is important to note that caution should still be exercised, especially if handling a toad, as some individuals may have allergic reactions to their skin secretions. In areas where cane toads are prevalent, individuals should also take precautions while gardening or engaging in outdoor activities. Wearing gloves and protective clothing can help minimize the risk of accidental contact with the toads. It is also crucial to wash hands thoroughly after handling any objects or surfaces that may have come into contact with cane toads. Gulf Coast toads (Incilius nebulifer) are known for their distinctive features and the ability to secrete toxins from their skin.
Is there a specific dosage or concentration of the toad’s poison that can be fatal to a human?
The chemical constituents of bufadienolides and indolealkylamines have also been identified in Huachansu. Additionally, the indolylalkylamines—including bufotenine, bufotenidine, cinobufotenine, and serotonin—were found in Huachansu, as mentioned in previous literature 32,33. There have been reports of individuals who have died from taking toad secretions, but it is unclear whether these deaths were due to a toxic reaction to the secretions themselves or to other factors.
The venom of Gulf Coast toads contains several toxic compounds, with the main one being bufotoxin. Bufotoxin is a cardiotoxic steroid that affects the heart and can cause arrhythmias and even cardiac arrest in certain cases. It is important to note that the toxicity of the venom can vary depending on the individual toad and its habitat. If a human comes into contact with the toxin of the Colorado Desert toad, symptoms can include severe bufotoxin effects on humans irritation, swelling, and redness of the skin. Ingesting or licking the toad can result in more severe symptoms including nausea, vomiting, irregular heartbeat, hallucinations, and in extreme cases, death. The secretion of bufotoxin is a defense mechanism for the Colorado Desert Toad.
- Toxins from toads have long been known to contain rich chemicals with great pharmaceutical potential.
- In a previous study, we have demonstrated that cinobufagin inhibited the growth of colon, prostate, skin, and lung cancers, in vitro.
- Furthermore, urban toads had lower concentrations of bufotoxins, the compounds with lower toxicity.
- Although they are native to Eastern Europe and Western Asia, fire-bellied toads are sometimes kept as pets in the US.
- If you encounter a Colorado Desert Toad in the wild or around your home, keep a safe distance and avoid touching or handling them.
What are the potential health risks associated with coming into contact with cane toads?
In conclusion, there are known cases of human deaths and severe health complications caused by the poison of common toads. Bufotoxin, the toxic secretion of common toads, can be extremely dangerous if ingested or if it comes into contact with mucous membranes or open wounds. It is important to exercise caution when handling or encountering toads to minimize the risk of bufotoxin poisoning. To begin, it’s important to understand the nature of the toxin produced by common toads. The poison secretions of a toad contain various chemical compounds, including bufotoxins, which are the main culprits behind their toxic effects. Bufotoxins are a class of steroidal compounds that can cause a range of symptoms when they come into contact with human skin or are ingested.
- However, it is always important to exercise caution when handling these toads or any other amphibians to minimize the risk of exposure to their toxic substances.
- The fire-bellied toad (Bombina species) gets its name from its bright red, yellow, or orange underside.
- Thus, we believe that it is important to understand the effect of individual compounds, which would enable us to explore the development of toad toxins as medicines.
- The toxin can be absorbed through the skin and cause irritation, rashes, and inflammation.
- The Colorado Desert Toad, also known as the Bufo alvarius or Sonoran Desert Toad, is a fascinating amphibian found in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico.
Why are cane toads in Florida important?
The cane toads have become a biological and environmental disaster in northern Australia, due to their fast reproduction speed and lack of natural predators 17. There are numerous scientists who have now started to consider the pharmaceutical potential of these cane toads 18,19,20. The inhibitory effect of cane toad skin aqueous extracts (CTSAE) on Na+/K+-ATPase was also demonstrated in other experimental models 18. In our laboratory, we have recently shown the anti-inflammatory effect of CTSAE via inhibiting the release and expression of TNF-α and IL-6, and the suppression of nuclear factor (NF)-kappa (κ)B in vitro 19. In conclusion, while there are documented cases of individuals experiencing severe adverse effects from the toxic secretions of toads, the lethal dosage for humans remains unknown. Factors such as the concentration of specific chemicals, the individual’s health status, and the presence of other substances can all influence the toxicity of toad secretions.
They can be found in wetland areas, marshes, and even backyards near water sources. Cane Toads are not protected in Florida, except by anti-cruelty laws and can be removed from private property year-round. The Florida Wildlife Commission (FWC) encourages the extermination of Cane Toads from private properties. Hired wildlife trappers are available to assist with the removal of these toads, which can be found by searching online.
The Development of Toad Toxins as Potential Therapeutic Agents
While this toad may seem harmless, it is important to know that it produces a potent venom that can be harmful to humans and other animals if not handled safely. The Colorado Desert Toad, also known as the Sonoran Desert Toad or the Colorado River Toad, is a fascinating amphibian that can be found in the arid regions of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. While they may seem harmless, it is important to know that these toads produce a potent toxin that can be dangerous to humans. Bufotenine, weak hallucinogenic agent active by intravenous injection, isolated from several natural sources or prepared by chemical synthesis. Bufotenine is a constituent of toad poison, the poisonous, milky secretion of glands found in the skin on the back of the animal. Amphibians are cold-blooded vertebrates comprised of frogs, newts, toads, and salamanders (caecilians are amphibians but are not known to pose a risk to humans).
Slit lamp examination showed conjunctival hyperaemia, slight oedema, and folds of the Descemet membrane of the cornea indicating ocular hypotonia. Cataract was found on both eyes (grade CO2N1P0 in a LOCS III (Lens Opacities Classification System)). Hypotonia was confirmed by Goldmann aplanation tonometry with IOP (intraocular pressure) 9 mmHg in the right eye and 10 mmHg in the left eye. After examination, eyes were washed with 0.9% saline solution and topical antibiotic ointment was administered (tobramicin 5 mg/4 times a day).
Supportive measures, such as intravenous fluids and anti-nausea medications, may also be administered. It is important to note that cane toad poisoning in humans is rare, as most people are aware of their toxicity and avoid handling or consuming them. However, accidental ingestion can occur in young children or individuals with cognitive impairments. If a cane toad is ingested by a human, the bufotoxin can have serious consequences. In more severe cases, it can lead to heart palpitations, hallucinations, seizures, and even death. The effects of poisoning can vary depending on the size of the toad, the amount of toxin ingested, and the individual’s sensitivity to the toxin.
This is particularly important for children who may be more curious and likely to handle the toads without the necessary understanding of the potential risks. Although Gulf Coast toads are poisonous, it is important to understand that the toxicity of their bufotoxin generally affects predators and not humans. Ingesting or coming into contact with the toad’s toxin can cause discomfort and illness, but it is rarely fatal to humans.