Crotalidae venom toxins (Crotalus adamanteus, Crotalus atrox, Crotalus scutulatus, and Agkistrodon piscivorus)

The toxic protein components from Crotalus adamanteus, Crotalus atrox, Crotalus scutulatus, and Agkistrodon piscivorus constitute a complex mixture of enzymes and non-enzymatic proteins that drive the pathophysiology of pit viper envenomation. Key components include phospholipases A2 (PLA2), which cause cell membrane disruption and myotoxicity; snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs), which degrade the extracellular matrix leading to hemorrhage and tissue necrosis; and serine proteases that interfere with the coagulation cascade. Notably, Crotalus scutulatus venom contains the Mojave toxin, a potent heterodimeric neurotoxic PLA2 that inhibits presynaptic acetylcholine release. These proteins are the primary therapeutic targets for Crotalidae Polyvalent Immune Fab (CroFab), an antivenom composed of venom-specific Fab fragments. CroFab binds to these toxins, neutralizing their enzymatic activity and preventing further tissue damage or systemic toxicity. Clinical management focuses on reversing venom-induced coagulopathy and stabilizing local and systemic symptoms through passive immunization.

Other names

Crotalidae venom toxinsPit viper venom proteinsNorth American Crotalinae venom componentsCrotalus and Agkistrodon venom mixture

Passive immunization via Fab fragments that bind and neutralize venom toxins, preventing their interaction with physiological substrates and facilitating their clearance.