Targeting snake venom metalloproteinases: structural diversity, molecular pathogenesis and therapeutic interventions

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  Targeting snake venom metalloproteinases: structural diversity, molecular pathogenesis and therapeutic interventions Abstract Snake venom Metalloproteinases (SVMPs) are Zn²⁺-dependent endopeptidases categorised under metzincin superfamily and are predominantly found in venom of the “ Viperidae ” family snakes. They are key mediators of venom-induced pathology with associated tissue damage including haemorrhage and oedema. SVMPs are classified as P-I, P-II, and P-III depending on the domains, each differing in structural complexity and organization. Further, the conserved HEXXHXXGXXH catalytic motif organizes a Zn 2+ ion, essential for the breakdown of peptide bonds and proteins. Given the limitations of conventional antivenom therapy, increasing attention has been directed toward targeted approaches for SVMPs neutralization, including plant-derived phytocompounds, synthetic and repurposed small-molecule inhibitors, recombinant monoclonal antibodies, and camelid-derived nanobodi...

Cymbiapophysa seldeni, a new theraphosine species from Ecuador (Araneae: Theraphosidae)

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Cymbiapophysa seldeni, a new theraphosine species from Ecuador (Araneae: Theraphosidae)


Abstract

Cymbiapophysa Gabriel & Sherwood, 2020 is a theraphosine genus endemic to South America, diagnosable on genital organ morphology in both sexes, and the presence of a distal-retrolateral apophysis on the male cymbium. Examination of historical material in the Natural History Museum, London, recently revealed a new species from Carondelet, Ecuador, with distinct palpal bulb and tibial apophysis morphology, described herein as Cymbiapophysa seldeni sp. nov.


Danniella Sherwood and Ray Gabriel "Cymbiapophysa seldeni, a new theraphosine species from Ecuador (Araneae: Theraphosidae)," Arachnology 19(5), 777-779, (10 July 2023). https://doi.org/10.13156/arac.2023.19.5.777