Vipera berus venom (VBV)

Vipera berus venom is the complex toxic secretion produced by the common European adder, consisting of a diverse array of proteins and peptides that facilitate prey capture and digestion. The primary bioactive components include phospholipase A2 (PLA2), snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs), and snake venom serine proteases (SVSPs), which collectively induce local tissue damage, hematological disturbances, and cardiovascular effects [Toxins (MDPI), 2020]. In clinical envenomation, these toxins target various physiological systems, leading to symptoms such as local edema, thrombocytopenia, and occasionally systemic neurotoxicity or hypotension [StatPearls, 2023]. The venom acts as the therapeutic target for specific antivenoms, which utilize purified polyclonal antibodies or antibody fragments (Fab or F(ab')2) to bind and neutralize the circulating toxins [WHO, 2016]. By sequestering these venom components, antivenoms prevent further interaction with host tissues and accelerate the clearance of the toxins from the bloodstream. Management of envenomation requires careful monitoring of coagulation parameters and inflammatory markers to assess the efficacy of the antivenom treatment [Journal of Venomous Animals and Toxins, 2021].

Other names

Common European adder venomVipera berus berus venomKreuzotter gift

Passive immunization through antibody-mediated neutralization of venom enzymes and toxins, preventing their binding to physiological substrates and promoting their clearance [WHO, 2016].