saxatilin

Saxatilin is a **novel disintegrin protein** purified from the venom of the Korean snake *Gloydius saxatilis*. It acts primarily as a glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (integrin αIIbβ3) **receptor antagonist**, strongly inhibiting both platelet activation and aggregation by blocking multiple integrins involved in platelet adhesion and aggregation, including αIIbβ3, α5β1, αvβ3, αvβ1, and αvβ5. Saxatilin is an RGD-containing protein (contains the Arg-Gly-Asp motif common to integrin inhibitors) with a molecular mass of 7712 Da. In preclinical studies, saxatilin demonstrated **dose-dependent thrombolytic effects** in animal thrombosis models, restoring blood flow and promoting thrombus dissolution without direct fibrinolytic activity. Safety studies indicate that toxic effects are primarily seen at doses far above those required for antiplatelet effects, with the spleen identified as the target organ in mice. The recombinant form can be produced in *Pichia pastoris* and retains biological activity. Saxatilin's unique broad-spectrum integrin inhibition and antithrombotic properties suggest potential for development as a **thrombolytic and antiplatelet agent**, and possibly for other indications including cancer, restenosis, cataract, and osteoporosis[1][2][3][5].