Snake venom toxins (Bitis arietans, Cerastes cerastes, Cerastes deserti, Echis leucogaster, Naja nigricollis, Naja melanoleuca, Naja haje) (SVT)

This target group represents a complex mixture of toxic proteins and enzymes found in the venom of medically significant African snakes, including the Puff adder (Bitis arietans), Horned vipers (Cerastes spp.), Carpet vipers (Echis leucogaster), and various Cobras (Naja spp.) [1, 2]. These venoms contain diverse molecular classes such as snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs), phospholipases A2 (PLA2s), serine proteases, and three-finger toxins (3FTxs) [3]. Biologically, these toxins act synergistically to cause local tissue destruction, systemic hemorrhage, and life-threatening paralysis by targeting the basement membrane of blood vessels, the coagulation cascade, and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors [1, 5]. In clinical settings, envenomation by these species leads to syndromes ranging from severe local necrosis and hematotoxicity to rapid neurotoxic respiratory failure [1, 4]. The primary therapeutic approach is the administration of polyvalent antivenoms, such as Inoserp Panafricain or SAIMR Polyvalent Antivenom, which contain antibodies that bind and neutralize these specific toxins [2]. Additionally, small-molecule inhibitors like varespladib (targeting PLA2) and marimastat (targeting SVMPs) are under investigation as adjunct treatments to delay the onset of local and systemic damage [4].

Other names

African snake venom proteinsPanafrican venom cocktailViperid and Elapid toxinsMedically important African snake venoms

Antibody-mediated neutralization of venom antigens; enzymatic inhibition of phospholipases and metalloproteinases.