Authors
Kathleen Fernandes Grego, Sávio Stefanini Sant'anna, Anita Mitico Tanaka-Azevedo, Thais Almeida de Godoy, Caroline Serino-Silva
Published in
Biochimie. Oct 29, 2026. Epub Oct 29, 2026.
Abstract
Snakebite envenomation is a critical public health issue, with Naja kaouthia representing a species of high medical importance. Despite its neurotoxic potential, the ontogenetic variability of its venom remains insufficiently characterized. This study investigated three distinct captive broods across multiple developmental stages. Analysis of venom protein profiles (via SDS-PAGE and RP-HPLC) and enzymatic activities (, LAAO, proteases, and hyaluronidase) revealed that venom composition is strongly influenced by brood origin and age. A consistent ontogenetic pattern was observed: juvenile venoms were characterized by higher-molecular-weight components and elevated proteolytic, hyaluronidase, and LAAO activities, whereas adult venoms exhibited a progressive accumulation of low-molecular-weight proteins and increased activity. These findings highlight a progressive, time-dependent transition in venom composition and functionality, underscoring the value of longitudinal studies across developmental stages. Such ontogenetic characterization offers relevant translational insights, as age-related variations in toxin profiles may inform antivenom formulation strategies and provide useful guidance for bioprospecting efforts seeking specific bioactive compounds across distinct developmental stages.
PMID:
42957150
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 30 Oct 2026.
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