Comparative study of biochemical composition and enzymatic activity of Bothrops atrox venom

Abstract

In Ecuadorian Amazon, Bothrops atrox is the main snake associated with ophidic accidents. The only approved treatment for snakebite envenomation are antivenoms and their efficiency depends on the reference venom used in their production. It is important to mention that B. atrox is a species with wide geographic distribution, which can generate differences in the composition and phenotype of the venom between its different populations. This variability can be responsible for changes in the toxicological effects of snakebite among populations of the same species. With this in mind, the present study analyzed two venom samples from individuals from two Amazonian areas. Based on the results, differences in the abundance of the main families of toxins and their activities between both venoms were identified