1
|
Knudsen C, Belfakir SB, Degnegaard P, Jürgensen JA, Haack AM, Friis RUW, Dam SH, Laustsen AH, Ross GMS. Multiplex lateral flow assay development for snake venom detection in biological matrices. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2567. [PMID: 38296989 PMCID: PMC10831076 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51971-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Bothrops and Lachesis are two of Brazil's medically most relevant snake genera, causing tens of thousands of bites annually. Fortunately, Brazil has good accessibility to high-quality antivenoms at the genus and inter-genus level, enabling the treatment of many of these envenomings. However, the optimal use of these treatments requires that the snake species responsible for the bite is determined. Currently, physicians use a syndromic approach to diagnose snakebite, which can be difficult for medical personnel with limited training in clinical snakebite management. In this work, we have developed a novel monoclonal antibody-based multiplex lateral flow assay for differentiating Bothrops and Lachesis venoms within 15 min. The test can be read by the naked eye or (semi)-quantitatively by a smartphone supported by a 3D-printed attachment for controlling lighting conditions. The LFA can detect Bothrops and Lachesis venoms in spiked plasma and urine matrices at concentrations spanning six orders of magnitude. The LFA has detection limits of 10-50 ng/mL in spiked plasma and urine, and 50-500 ng/mL in spiked sera, for B. atrox and L. muta venoms. This test could potentially support medical personnel in correctly diagnosing snakebite envenomings at the point-of-care in Brazil, which may help improve patient outcomes and save lives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cecilie Knudsen
- VenomAid Diagnostics, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
| | - Selma B Belfakir
- VenomAid Diagnostics, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark.
| | | | - Jonas A Jürgensen
- VenomAid Diagnostics, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Aleksander M Haack
- VenomAid Diagnostics, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Rasmus U W Friis
- VenomAid Diagnostics, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Søren H Dam
- VenomAid Diagnostics, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Andreas H Laustsen
- VenomAid Diagnostics, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, 2800, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Salim A, Williams J, Abdel Wahab S, Adeshokan T, Almeida JR, Williams HF, Vaiyapuri R, Senthilkumaran S, Thirumalaikolundusubramanian P, Patel K, Baksh MF, Lewin MR, Vaiyapuri S. Identifying key factors contributing to treatment costs for snakebite envenoming in private tertiary healthcare settings in Tamil Nadu, India. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011699. [PMID: 37844081 PMCID: PMC10602377 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND India suffers ~58,000 annual deaths due to snakebites. The 'Big Four' snakes (Russell's viper, Indian cobra, common krait, and saw-scaled viper) that are responsible for most bites cause diverse clinical effects. Delayed treatment increases the risk of serious complications and treatment costs. Although government hospitals offer free treatment for snakebites in India, most patients opt for private healthcare, which is an out-of-pocket expense as they often lack health insurance coverage. This study aims to analyse snakebite treatment costs in private tertiary care hospitals in Tamil Nadu, India and identifies the key factors contributing to treatment costs. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The treatment cost details for 913 snakebite victims were collected from 10 private tertiary care hospitals across Tamil Nadu. The data were classified into hospital, pharmacy, investigation, and laboratory costs, and analysed to determine various factors that contribute to the costs. The results demonstrate that the average treatment costs vary widely for different snakes. The hospital and pharmacy costs are higher than investigation and laboratory costs for all snakebites. Notably, Russell's viper bites cost significantly more than the bites from other snakes. Overall, the type of snake, nature of complications, specialist treatments required, and arrival time to hospitals were identified as some of the key factors for higher treatment costs. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE These data demonstrate that ~80% of snakebite patients can be treated with INR 100,000 (~GBP 1000 or USD 1200) or less. This study emphasises the urgent need to improve rural medical care by providing appropriate training for healthcare professionals and essential resources to facilitate early assessment of patients, administer the initial dose of antivenom and refer the patients to tertiary care only when needed. Moreover, the outcome of this study forms a basis for developing appropriate policies to regulate snakebite treatment costs and provide affordable medical insurance for vulnerable communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anika Salim
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Jarred Williams
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tade Adeshokan
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - José R. Almeida
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Ketan Patel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - M. Fazil Baksh
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew R. Lewin
- California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Senthilkumaran S, Almeida JR, Williams J, Williams HF, Thirumalaikolundusubramanian P, Patel K, Vaiyapuri S. Rapid identification of bilateral adrenal and pituitary haemorrhages induced by Russell's viper envenomation results in positive patient outcome. Toxicon 2023; 225:107068. [PMID: 36863530 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
The clinical management of snakebite envenomation (SBE) is challenging in many tropical and subtropical regions of developing countries due to the complex clinical manifestations and inadequate medical infrastructure. Some venomous snakes, such as the Indian Russell's viper (Daboia russelii) cause a wide range of rare complications in addition to their classical envenomation effects. In general, these uncommon complications are often misdiagnosed or not treated promptly due to a lack of awareness about these conditions. Thus, it is critical to report such complications to draw the attention of the healthcare and research communities to improve the clinical management and scientific research of SBE, respectively. Here, we report bilateral adrenal and pituitary haemorrhages in an SBE patient following a bite by Russell's viper in India. The initial symptoms included gum bleeding, swelling, axillary lymphadenopathy and clotting abnormalities. Despite the administration of antivenom, the patient presented palpitation, nausea, and abdominal pain, which were not recovered by combinational therapy with epinephrine and dexamethasone. Further infusion of antivenom did not address these issues and the patient displayed persistent hypotension, hypoglycaemia and hyperkalaemia suggesting an adrenal crisis. Inadequate secretion of corticosteroids was confirmed by laboratory tests, and imaging investigations revealed haemorrhages in both the adrenal and pituitary glands. The patient made a full recovery after treatment with hydrocortisone and thyroxine. This report adds to the growing evidence of rare complications induced by Russell's viper envenomations and it provides relevant guidance to diagnose and treat such complications in SBE victims.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - José R Almeida
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6UB, UK
| | - Jarred Williams
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6UB, UK
| | - Harry F Williams
- Toxiven Biotech Private Limited, Coimbatore, 641042, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Ketan Patel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6UB, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Vaiyapuri S, Kadam P, Chandrasekharuni G, Oliveira IS, Senthilkumaran S, Salim A, Patel K, de Almeida Gonçalves Sachett J, Pucca MB. Multifaceted community health education programs as powerful tools to mitigate snakebite-induced deaths, disabilities, and socioeconomic burden. Toxicon X 2023; 17:100147. [PMID: 36632238 PMCID: PMC9827049 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2022.100147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming (SBE) predominantly affects rural impoverished communities that have limited access to immediate healthcare. These communities often hold numerous myths/misbeliefs about snakes and SBE. Moreover, healthcare professionals who practice in rural regions often work in unstable situations with limited medical infrastructure and therefore, lack sufficient knowledge/experience and confidence in the clinical management of SBE. Due to the lack of reliable statistics on the true burden of SBE, developing health policies for this condition by relevant authorities may be difficult. Hence, it is critical to improve awareness about SBE among rural communities, healthcare professionals and health authorities using robust multifaceted community health education approaches. Here, we describe the design, development, implementation, and impact of distinctive community health education approaches that we used in India and Brazil. A wide range of educational tools including information leaflets, posters, pocket guides, learning materials for healthcare professionals and short/long video documentaries were developed in local languages and used to engage with target communities through direct assemblies as well as mass/traditional and social media. Notably, we used diverse methods to determine the impact of our programs in improving awareness, treatment-seeking behaviour, and clinical practice. The people-centred approaches that we used were inclusive and highly impactful in instigating fundamental changes in the management of SBE among rural communities. The resources and approaches presented in this article can be easily adapted for wider use in other countries in order to collectively reduce SBE-induced deaths, disabilities and socioeconomic ramifications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sakthivel Vaiyapuri
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6UB, UK
- Corresponding author.
| | | | | | - Isadora S. Oliveira
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | | | - Anika Salim
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6UB, UK
| | - Ketan Patel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, RG6 6UB, UK
| | | | - Manuela B. Pucca
- Medical School, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
An Unnecessary Russell's Viper Bite on the Tongue Due to Live Snake Worship and Dangerous First Aid Emphasise the Urgent Need for Stringent Policies. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14120817. [PMID: 36548714 PMCID: PMC9787415 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14120817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
India suffers the highest incidence of snakebite envenomation (SBE) in the world. Rural communities within India and other countries have long-held cultural beliefs surrounding snakes and SBE treatments, with snake statues present in numerous Hindu temples. While most cultural beliefs are well respected and do not affect anyone, some people worship live venomous snakes without any safety precautions. Moreover, they practice various inappropriate first aid and traditional treatments that exacerbate SBE-induced complications. We report an unusual case of SBE on the tongue of a patient who was bitten while worshipping Russell's viper following the advice of an astrologer based on the appearance of a snake in the patient's dream. Following the bite, the tongue was deeply incised by the priest as a first aid to mitigate SBE-induced complications. The patient suffered profuse bleeding and swelling of the tongue resulting in difficulties in intubating them. The patient regained consciousness after antivenom administration, intranasal ventilation, and blood removal from the mouth. The tongue underwent extensive surgery to restore movement and function. This report advises caution to those undertaking the extremely risky practice of worshipping live snakes and emphasises the urgent need to develop and enforce policies to mitigate such actions and educate rural communities.
Collapse
|
6
|
Senthilkumaran S, Miller SW, Williams HF, Thirumalaikolundusubramanian P, Patel K, Vaiyapuri S. Bilateral Simultaneous Optic Neuritis Following Envenomations by Indian Cobra and Common Krait. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14110805. [PMID: 36422979 PMCID: PMC9697512 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14110805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In India, most snakebite envenomation (SBE) incidents are caused by the "Big Four" snakes which include Russell's viper, common krait, Indian cobra, and saw-scaled viper. Their common envenomation effects include neurotoxicity, myotoxicity, and coagulopathy. However, they also induce rare complications such as priapism, pseudoaneurysm, and sialolithiasis. Ocular manifestations such as optic neuritis develop rarely following envenomations by non-spitting snakes and they may cause temporary vision changes and blindness if untreated. While optic neuritis following Indian cobra envenomation has been reported previously, this was not encountered in victims of common kraits. Hence, for the first time, we report optic neuritis developed in a victim following envenomation by a common krait and compare its clinical features and diagnostic and therapeutic methods used with another case of optic neuritis in a victim of an Indian cobra bite. Both patients received antivenom treatment and made an initial recovery; however, optic neuritis developed several days later. The condition was diagnosed using ophthalmic examination together with computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging methods. Due to very similar clinical features, both patients received intravenous corticosteroids which restored their vision and successfully treated optic neuritis. This case report suggests that the optic neuritis developed in a common krait envenomation is comparable to the one developed following a cobra bite, and therefore, the same diagnostic and therapeutic approaches can be used. This study also raises awareness of this rare complication and provides guidance for the diagnosis and treatment of SBE-induced optic neuritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephen W. Miller
- The Poison Control Center, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Harry F. Williams
- Toxiven Biotech Private Limited, Coimbatore 641042, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Ketan Patel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK
| | - Sakthivel Vaiyapuri
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Manson EZ, Mutinda KC, Gikunju JK, Bocian A, Hus KK, Petrílla V, Legáth J, Kimotho JH. Development of an Inhibition Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) Prototype for Detecting Cytotoxic Three-Finger Toxins (3FTxs) in African Spitting Cobra Venoms. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27030888. [PMID: 35164152 PMCID: PMC8838685 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27030888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The administration of toxin-specific therapy in snake envenoming is predicated on improved diagnostic techniques capable of detecting specific venom toxins. Various serological tests have been used in detecting snakebite envenoming. Comparatively, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has been shown to offer a wider practical application. We report an inhibition ELISA for detecting three-finger toxin (3FTx) proteins in venoms of African spitting cobras. The optimized assay detected 3FTxs in N. ashei (including other Naja sp.) venoms, spiked samples, and venom-challenged mice samples. In venoms of Naja sp., the assay showed inhibition, implying the detection of 3FTxs, but showed little or no inhibition in non-Naja sp. In mice-spiked samples, one-way ANOVA results showed that the observed inhibition was not statistically significant between spiked samples and negative control (p-value = 0.164). Similarly, the observed differences in inhibition between venom-challenged and negative control samples were not statistically significant (p-value = 0.9109). At an LOD of 0.01 µg/mL, the assay was able to confirm the presence of 3FTxs in the samples. Our results show a proof of concept for the use of an inhibition ELISA model as a tool for detecting 3FTxs in the venoms of African spitting cobra snakes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ernest Z. Manson
- Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology & Innovation, Pan African University, Nairobi 00100, Kenya
- Correspondence:
| | - Kyama C. Mutinda
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (K.C.M.); (J.K.G.)
| | - Joseph K. Gikunju
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology, Nairobi 00100, Kenya; (K.C.M.); (J.K.G.)
| | - Aleksandra Bocian
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Chemistry, Rzeszow University of Technology, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland; (A.B.); (K.K.H.); (J.L.)
| | - Konrad K. Hus
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Chemistry, Rzeszow University of Technology, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland; (A.B.); (K.K.H.); (J.L.)
| | - Vladimír Petrílla
- Department of Biology and Physiology, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 041 81 Košice, Slovakia;
- Zoological Department, Zoological Garden Košice, Široká 31, 040 06 Košice-Kavečany, Slovakia
| | - Jaroslav Legáth
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Chemistry, Rzeszow University of Technology, 35-959 Rzeszow, Poland; (A.B.); (K.K.H.); (J.L.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy, 041 81 Košice, Slovakia
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hamza M, Knudsen C, Gnanathasan CA, Monteiro W, Lewin MR, Laustsen AH, Habib AG. Clinical management of snakebite envenoming: Future perspectives. Toxicon X 2021; 11:100079. [PMID: 34430847 PMCID: PMC8374517 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2021.100079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in rural communities throughout the tropics. Generally, the main clinical features of snakebites are local swelling, tissue necrosis, shock, spontaneous systemic hemorrhage, incoagulable blood, paralysis, rhabdomyolysis, and acute kidney injury. These clinical manifestations result from complex biochemical venom constituents comprising of cytotoxins, hemotoxins, neurotoxins, myotoxins, and other substances. Timely diagnosis of envenoming and identification of the responsible snake species is clinically challenging in many parts of the world and necessitates prompt and thorough clinical assessment, which could be supported by the development of reliable, affordable, widely-accessible, point-of-care tests. Conventional antivenoms based on polyclonal antibodies derived from animals remain the mainstay of therapy along with supportive medical and surgical care. However, while antivenoms save countless lives, they are associated with adverse reactions, limited potency, and are relatively inefficacious against presynaptic neurotoxicity and in preventing necrosis. Nevertheless, major scientific and technological advances are facilitating the development of new molecular and immunologic diagnostic tests, as well as a new generation of antivenoms comprising human monoclonal antibodies with broader and more potent neutralization capacity and less immunogenicity. Repurposed pharmaceuticals based on small molecule inhibitors (e.g., marimastat and varespladib) used alone and in combination against enzymatic toxins, such as metalloproteases and phospholipase A2s, have shown promise in animal studies. These orally bioavailable molecules could serve as early interventions in the out-of-hospital setting if confirmed to be safe and efficacious in clinical studies. Antivenom access can be improved by the usage of drones and ensuring constant antivenom supply in remote endemic rural areas. Overall, the improvement of clinical management of snakebite envenoming requires sustained, coordinated, and multifaceted efforts involving basic and applied sciences, new technology, product development, effective clinical training, implementation of existing guidelines and therapeutic approaches, supported by improved supply of existing antivenoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Hamza
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Bayero University Kano, Nigeria
| | - Cecilie Knudsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Wuelton Monteiro
- Department of Research, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
- School of Health Sciences, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Matthew R. Lewin
- Center for Exploration and Travel Health, California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, USA
| | - Andreas H. Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Duda R, Monteiro WM, Giles-Vernick T. Integrating lay knowledge and practice into snakebite prevention and care in central Africa, a hotspot for envenomation. Toxicon X 2021; 11:100077. [PMID: 34381993 PMCID: PMC8334740 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxcx.2021.100077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The WHO has identified the goal of halving deaths and disability from snakebite envenomation (SBE) by 2030 through a four-pillar program that promotes accessible and affordable treatments, strengthens health systems, promotes community and multi-level engagement, and mobilizes partnerships, coordination and resources to advocate for global action. This initiative could accelerate multi-disciplinary research and action in central Africa, a “hotspot” for SBE, but it offers little specific guidance about anthropological research to be conducted. This commentary develops that research agenda. It surveys anthropological, ethnohistorical investigations in the central African forest to elaborate the socio-cultural and historical significance and practices around snakes and snakebites. It draws from south and southeast Asian and Latin American literatures to illustrate anthropological contributions to SBE research. It then outlines a Central African research agenda employing ethnobiological investigation of snake ecologies, participatory evaluations of humans-snake contacts, and interviews and participant-observation of local prevention and treatment practices and knowledge. This research will co-develop policies and practices with forest communities and leaders and regional and national authorities to reduce the burden of SBE. Central African forests are a hotspot for snakebite envenomation. SBE research in central Africa has not mobilized anthropological literatures or methodologies. Policies to reduce SBE burden in central Africa should build on participatory research. Policies to reduce SBE burden should be co-developed with local and national stakeholders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romain Duda
- Anthropology & Ecology of Disease Emergence Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Wuelton M Monteiro
- School of Health Sciences, Universidade Do Estado Do Amazonas, Manaus, Brazil.,Department of Research, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Dr. Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, Brazil
| | - Tamara Giles-Vernick
- Anthropology & Ecology of Disease Emergence Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abdeldayem A, Alanazi AA, Aljabri JN, Abid I. Challenges in the Management of an Echis coloratus Adult Snakebite Victim at a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Case Report. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2021; 22:e931532. [PMID: 34103465 PMCID: PMC8197442 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.931532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Patient: Male, 18-year-old Final Diagnosis: Snakebite envenomation Symptoms: Coagulopathy Medication:— Clinical Procedure: Anti snake venom Specialty: General and Internal Medicine • Toxicology • Tropical Medicine
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Abdeldayem
- In-Charge Drug and Poison Information Center, Prince Mohamed Bin Abdulaziz Hospital, Al Madina Al Monawara, Ministry of the National Guard Health Affairs, Al Madinah Al Monawara, Saudi Arabia.,King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alhanouf Ayed Alanazi
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Internal Medicine Department, Prince Mohamed Bin Abdulaziz Hospital, Al Madina Al Monawara, Ministry of the National Guard Health Affairs, Al Madinah Al Monawara, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jawaher N Aljabri
- Internal Medicine Department, National guard health Affairs, Al Madinah Al Monawara, Saudi Arabia.,King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ijaz Abid
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Internal Medicine Department, Prince Mohamed Bin Abdulaziz Hospital, Al Madina Al Monawara, Ministry of the National Guard Health Affairs, Al Madinah Al Monawara, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Knudsen C, Jürgensen JA, Føns S, Haack AM, Friis RUW, Dam SH, Bush SP, White J, Laustsen AH. Snakebite Envenoming Diagnosis and Diagnostics. Front Immunol 2021; 12:661457. [PMID: 33995385 PMCID: PMC8113877 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.661457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming is predominantly an occupational disease of the rural tropics, causing death or permanent disability to hundreds of thousands of victims annually. The diagnosis of snakebite envenoming is commonly based on a combination of patient history and a syndromic approach. However, the availability of auxiliary diagnostic tests at the disposal of the clinicians vary from country to country, and the level of experience within snakebite diagnosis and intervention may be quite different for clinicians from different hospitals. As such, achieving timely diagnosis, and thus treatment, is a challenge faced by treating personnel around the globe. For years, much effort has gone into developing novel diagnostics to support diagnosis of snakebite victims, especially in rural areas of the tropics. Gaining access to affordable and rapid diagnostics could potentially facilitate more favorable patient outcomes due to early and appropriate treatment. This review aims to highlight regional differences in epidemiology and clinical snakebite management on a global scale, including an overview of the past and ongoing research efforts within snakebite diagnostics. Finally, the review is rounded off with a discussion on design considerations and potential benefits of novel snakebite diagnostics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cecilie Knudsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
- BioPorto Diagnostics A/S, Hellerup, Denmark
| | - Jonas A. Jürgensen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Sofie Føns
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Aleksander M. Haack
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Rasmus U. W. Friis
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Søren H. Dam
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Sean P. Bush
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Julian White
- Toxinology Department, Women’s and Children’s Hospital, North Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Andreas H. Laustsen
- Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
The Failures of Ethnobotany and Phytomedicine in Delivering Novel Treatments for Snakebite Envenomation. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12120774. [PMID: 33291263 PMCID: PMC7762085 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12120774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenomation (SBE) is a high-priority, neglected tropical disease. This devastating occupational health hazard disproportionately affects rural farming communities in tropical countries. This is exacerbated by the distribution and densities of venomous snakes, incidence of encounters, and limited access to advanced healthcare, including antivenom. Before the development of antivenom, desperation and spiritual beliefs led patients to experiment with a wide range of traditional treatments. Many of these treatments still survive today, particularly in regions where access to healthcare is limited. Plants are a major source of bioactive molecules, including several lifesaving medications that are widely used to this day. However, much of the research into the use of traditional plant treatments for SBE are limited to preliminary analysis or have focused on techniques used to confirm antibody efficacy that are not suitable for non-antibody-containing treatments. Modern drugs are developed through a robust pharmaceutical drug discovery and development process, which applies as much to SBE as it does to any other disease. This review discusses specifically why research into ethnobotanical practices has failed to identify or develop a novel treatment for SBE and proposes specific approaches that should be considered in this area of research in the future.
Collapse
|
13
|
Mukherjee AK. Species-specific and geographical variation in venom composition of two major cobras in Indian subcontinent: Impact on polyvalent antivenom therapy. Toxicon 2020; 188:150-158. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
14
|
Samuel SP, Chinnaraju S, Williams HF, Pichamuthu E, Subharao M, Vaiyapuri M, Arumugam S, Vaiyapuri R, Baksh MF, Patel K, Trim SA, Duncombe TE, Vaiyapuri S. Venomous snakebites: Rapid action saves lives-A multifaceted community education programme increases awareness about snakes and snakebites among the rural population of Tamil Nadu, India. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008911. [PMID: 33382715 PMCID: PMC7774832 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The lack of public awareness surrounding the dangers of snakebite envenomation (SBE) is one of the most critical factors contributing to SBE-induced complications, and subsequently exacerbating the number of deaths and disabilities resulting from SBE. In this study, we deployed a multifaceted community education programme to educate students, healthcare professionals and members of the public in rural areas of Tamil Nadu, India about the dangers of SBE, appropriate first aid measures and the 'do's and don'ts' following a snakebite. An assessment of prior knowledge within these communities identified several misconceptions concerning snakes and SBE. Using a combination of direct engagement (estimated to reach over 200,000 people), information leaflets (200,000 distributed), posters, video documentaries, media and social media (>2.8 million engagements), over the course of one year (January to December 2019) we reached over 3 million people in rural Tamil Nadu (around 8% of population). Evaluation of community-based assemblies indicated that at least 90% of attendees were able to recall the key messages at the end of the events, and at least 85% were able to recall the key messages even after 12 months. Due to high demand, a one-day symposium was organised to provide clinical knowledge and training on SBE to 250 healthcare professionals in rural Tamil Nadu. Notably, an assessment of patient data (291 victims) collected from a snakebite referral hospital over the same 12-month period (2019) indicated that arrival time at hospital following a snakebite was significantly faster and the effective first aid measures were administered to patients who were aware of our activities compared to those that were not. Overall, our approach provides a framework on how to educate rural communities about the dangers of SBE and thereby, mitigate delayed SBE treatment leading to an overall reduction in SBE-induced mortality, morbidity, treatment costs and other socio-economic ramifications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Paul Samuel
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kings Lynn, United Kingdom
- TCR Multispeciality Hospital, Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - M. Fazil Baksh
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Ketan Patel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tracey E. Duncombe
- Research and Enterprise Services, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Miller SW, Osterhoudt KC, Korenoski AS, Patel K, Vaiyapuri S. Exotic Snakebites Reported to Pennsylvania Poison Control Centers: Lessons Learned on the Demographics, Clinical Effects, and Treatment of These Cases. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12120755. [PMID: 33260454 PMCID: PMC7760318 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12120755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Exotic snakebites (i.e. from non-native species) are a rare occurrence, but they present a unique challenge to clinicians treating these patients. Poison control centers are often contacted to assist in the management and care of these medical emergencies. In this study, we analyzed case records of the two Pennsylvania poison control centers from 2004 to 2018 to describe clinical features reported as a result of exotic snakebite envenomation. For the 15-year period reviewed, 18 exotic snakebites were reported with effects ranging from mild local tissue injury to patients who were treated with mechanical ventilation due to respiratory failure. The mean age of the patients was 35 years and males accounted for 83% of the cases. Antivenom, the only specific treatment, was administered in seven of 18 patients within an average of four h of envenomation. The procurement of antivenom against these exotic species may require substantial logistical efforts due to limited stocking of this rarely used treatment. Newer, targeted, small molecule treatments that are being currently investigated may aid in the treatment of snakebites in general. However, people should be cautious when handling these exotic species, and clinicians should be aware of these bites and relevant clinical effects in order to manage these when reported.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen W. Miller
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK
- The Poison Control Center, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
- Correspondence: (S.W.M.); (S.V.)
| | - Kevin C. Osterhoudt
- The Poison Control Center, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
| | - Amanda S. Korenoski
- Pittsburgh Poison Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA;
| | - Ketan Patel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK;
| | - Sakthivel Vaiyapuri
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK
- Correspondence: (S.W.M.); (S.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Layfield HJ, Williams HF, Ravishankar D, Mehmi A, Sonavane M, Salim A, Vaiyapuri R, Lakshminarayanan K, Vallance TM, Bicknell AB, Trim SA, Patel K, Vaiyapuri S. Repurposing Cancer Drugs Batimastat and Marimastat to Inhibit the Activity of a Group I Metalloprotease from the Venom of the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake, Crotalus atrox. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12050309. [PMID: 32397419 PMCID: PMC7290494 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12050309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenomation causes over 140,000 deaths every year, predominantly in developing countries. As a result, it is one of the most lethal neglected tropical diseases. It is associated with incredibly complex pathophysiology due to the vast number of unique toxins/proteins present in the venoms of diverse snake species found worldwide. Here, we report the purification and functional characteristics of a Group I (PI) metalloprotease (CAMP-2) from the venom of the western diamondback rattlesnake, Crotalus atrox. Its sensitivity to matrix metalloprotease inhibitors (batimastat and marimastat) was established using specific in vitro experiments and in silico molecular docking analysis. CAMP-2 shows high sequence homology to atroxase from the venom of Crotalus atrox and exhibits collagenolytic, fibrinogenolytic and mild haemolytic activities. It exerts a mild inhibitory effect on agonist-induced platelet aggregation in the absence of plasma proteins. Its collagenolytic activity is completely inhibited by batimastat and marimastat. Zinc chloride also inhibits the collagenolytic activity of CAMP-2 by around 75% at 50 μM, while it is partially potentiated by calcium chloride. Molecular docking studies have demonstrated that batimastat and marimastat are able to bind strongly to the active site residues of CAMP-2. This study demonstrates the impact of matrix metalloprotease inhibitors in the modulation of a purified, Group I metalloprotease activities in comparison to the whole venom. By improving our understanding of snake venom metalloproteases and their sensitivity to small molecule inhibitors, we can begin to develop novel and improved treatment strategies for snakebites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harry J. Layfield
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (H.J.L.); (H.F.W.); (D.R.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (T.M.V.)
| | - Harry F. Williams
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (H.J.L.); (H.F.W.); (D.R.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (T.M.V.)
- Toxiven Biotech Private Limited, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641042, India; (R.V.); (K.L.)
| | - Divyashree Ravishankar
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (H.J.L.); (H.F.W.); (D.R.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (T.M.V.)
| | - Amita Mehmi
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (H.J.L.); (H.F.W.); (D.R.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (T.M.V.)
| | - Medha Sonavane
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (H.J.L.); (H.F.W.); (D.R.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (T.M.V.)
| | - Anika Salim
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (H.J.L.); (H.F.W.); (D.R.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (T.M.V.)
| | - Rajendran Vaiyapuri
- Toxiven Biotech Private Limited, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 641042, India; (R.V.); (K.L.)
| | | | - Thomas M. Vallance
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (H.J.L.); (H.F.W.); (D.R.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (T.M.V.)
| | - Andrew B. Bicknell
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (A.B.B.); (K.P.)
| | | | - Ketan Patel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (A.B.B.); (K.P.)
| | - Sakthivel Vaiyapuri
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6UB, UK; (H.J.L.); (H.F.W.); (D.R.); (A.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (T.M.V.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Williams HF, Layfield HJ, Vallance T, Patel K, Bicknell AB, Trim SA, Vaiyapuri S. The Urgent Need to Develop Novel Strategies for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Snakebites. Toxins (Basel) 2019; 11:E363. [PMID: 31226842 PMCID: PMC6628419 DOI: 10.3390/toxins11060363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming (SBE) is a priority neglected tropical disease, which kills in excess of 100,000 people per year. Additionally, many millions of survivors also suffer through disabilities and long-term health consequences. The only treatment for SBE, antivenom, has a number of major associated problems, not least, adverse reactions and limited availability. This emphasises the necessity for urgent improvements to the management of this disease. Administration of antivenom is too frequently based on symptomatology, which results in wasting crucial time. The majority of SBE-affected regions rely on broad-spectrum polyvalent antivenoms that have a low content of case-specific efficacious immunoglobulins. Research into small molecular therapeutics such as varespladib/methyl-varespladib (PLA2 inhibitors) and batimastat/marimastat (metalloprotease inhibitors) suggest that such adjunctive treatments could be hugely beneficial to victims. Progress into toxin-specific monoclonal antibodies as well as alternative binding scaffolds such as aptamers hold much promise for future treatment strategies. SBE is not implicit during snakebite, due to venom metering. Thus, the delay between bite and symptom presentation is critical and when symptoms appear it may often already be too late to effectively treat SBE. The development of reliable diagnostical tools could therefore initiate a paradigm shift in the treatment of SBE. While the complete eradication of SBE is an impossibility, mitigation is in the pipeline, with new treatments and diagnostics rapidly emerging. Here we critically review the urgent necessity for the development of diagnostic tools and improved therapeutics to mitigate the deaths and disabilities caused by SBE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thomas Vallance
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AH, UK.
| | - Ketan Patel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AH, UK.
| | - Andrew B Bicknell
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading RG6 6AH, UK.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Williams HF, Mellows BA, Mitchell R, Sfyri P, Layfield HJ, Salamah M, Vaiyapuri R, Collins-Hooper H, Bicknell AB, Matsakas A, Patel K, Vaiyapuri S. Mechanisms underpinning the permanent muscle damage induced by snake venom metalloprotease. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007041. [PMID: 30695027 PMCID: PMC6368331 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite is a major neglected tropical health issue that affects over 5 million people worldwide resulting in around 1.8 million envenomations and 100,000 deaths each year. Snakebite envenomation also causes innumerable morbidities, specifically loss of limbs as a result of excessive tissue/muscle damage. Snake venom metalloproteases (SVMPs) are a predominant component of viper venoms, and are involved in the degradation of basement membrane proteins (particularly collagen) surrounding the tissues around the bite site. Although their collagenolytic properties have been established, the molecular mechanisms through which SVMPs induce permanent muscle damage are poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate the purification and characterisation of an SVMP from a viper (Crotalus atrox) venom. Mass spectrometry analysis confirmed that this protein is most likely to be a group III metalloprotease (showing high similarity to VAP2A) and has been referred to as CAMP (Crotalus atrox metalloprotease). CAMP displays both collagenolytic and fibrinogenolytic activities and inhibits CRP-XL-induced platelet aggregation. To determine its effects on muscle damage, CAMP was administered into the tibialis anterior muscle of mice and its actions were compared with cardiotoxin I (a three-finger toxin) from an elapid snake (Naja pallida) venom. Extensive immunohistochemistry analyses revealed that CAMP significantly damages skeletal muscles by attacking the collagen scaffold and other important basement membrane proteins, and prevents their regeneration through disrupting the functions of satellite cells. In contrast, cardiotoxin I destroys skeletal muscle by damaging the plasma membrane, but does not impact regeneration due to its inability to affect the extracellular matrix. Overall, this study provides novel insights into the mechanisms through which SVMPs induce permanent muscle damage. Snakebite is a major neglected tropical disease that affects thousands of people in the rural areas of developing countries. As well as the deaths, snakebites result in a significant number of disabilities including permanent loss of limbs that alter the lifestyle of the victims. Snake venom is a mixture of different proteins with diverse functions; one of these major protein groups present in viper venoms are metalloproteases that primarily induce muscle damage. The mechanisms behind the development of snakebite (metalloprotease)-induced permanent muscle damage are poorly studied. Here, we have purified a metalloprotease (CAMP) from the venom of the Western diamondback rattlesnake, and characterised its function in mice. To determine the actions of CAMP in the development of permanent muscle damage, it was injected into the muscle of mice in a parallel comparison with cardiotoxin I (from the venom of the Red spitting cobra). The effects of these proteins on muscle regeneration were analysed at 5 and 10 days after injection. The results demonstrate that through a combination of effects on the structural scaffolds surrounding the tissues, blood vessels and regeneration, CAMP significantly affects the muscles, thereby leading to permanent muscle damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ben A. Mellows
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Mitchell
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Peggy Sfyri
- Molecular Physiology Laboratory, Centre for Atherothrombotic and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, Hull, United Kingdom
| | | | - Maryam Salamah
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Andrew B. Bicknell
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Antonios Matsakas
- Molecular Physiology Laboratory, Centre for Atherothrombotic and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, Hull, United Kingdom
| | - Ketan Patel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (KP); (SV)
| | - Sakthivel Vaiyapuri
- School of Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (KP); (SV)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Impact of Naja nigricollis Venom on the Production of Methaemoglobin. Toxins (Basel) 2018; 10:toxins10120539. [PMID: 30558289 PMCID: PMC6316634 DOI: 10.3390/toxins10120539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenomation is an affliction currently estimated to be killing upwards of 100,000 people annually. Snakebite is associated with a diverse pathophysiology due to the magnitude of variation in venom composition that is observed worldwide. The haemolytic (i.e., lysis of red blood cells) actions of snake venoms are well documented, although the direct impact of venoms on haemoglobin is not fully understood. Here we report on the varied ability of a multitude of snake venoms to oxidise haemoglobin into methaemoglobin. Moreover, our results demonstrate that the venom of an elapid, the black necked spitting cobra, Naja nigricollis, oxidises oxyhaemoglobin (Fe2+) into methaemoglobin (Fe3+) in a time- and concentration-dependent manner that is unparalleled within the 47 viper and elapid venoms evaluated. The treatment of venom with a reducing agent, dithiothreitol (DTT) is observed to potentiate this effect at higher concentrations, and the use of denatured venom demonstrates that this effect is dependent upon the heat-sensitive proteinaceous elements of the venom. Together, our results suggest that Naja nigricollis venom appears to promote methaemoglobin production to a degree that is rare within the Elapidae family, and this activity appears to be independent of proteolytic activities of venom components on haemoglobin.
Collapse
|