Ontogenetic and sexual differences in the venom of Bothrops moojeni: insights from a litter and its mother

Autor: S. C. Ferreira-Rodrigues, R. C. C. Silva, M. Trevisan, P. S. M. Rodrigues, T. H. M. Del-Rei, L. F. Sousa, A. R. G. Vilarinho, C. A. Lima, J. L. Rodrigues, M. M. R. Silva, A. M. Moura-da-Silva, S. S. Sant’Anna, C. S. Seibert
Jazyk: angličtina
Rok vydání: 2024
Předmět:
Zdroj: Brazilian Journal of Biology, Vol 84 (2024)
Druh dokumentu: article
ISSN: 1678-4375
1519-6984
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.279474
Popis: Abstract Variability in snake venom composition is well-documented and crucial for understanding snake ecology and predicting snakebites. In this study, we characterize the venom composition and biological activities of newborn female and male Bothrops moojeni and their mother. Our results reveal significant differences between the venom of newborn females and males, demonstrating a broad and diverse range of proteins. The venoms of newborn females showed higher serine protease effects, increased hemorrhagic activity, and greater lethality compared to the venom of newborn males. However, no differences were observed in phospholipase A2 and coagulant activity. The differences in protein composition and toxic activities between maternal and neonatal venom, as well as between the venoms of newborn females and males, contribute to understanding the diverse outcomes of snakebites. These results underscore the importance of considering sex and ontogeny in understanding venom composition in snakes.
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