Transcriptomic Insights Into the Evolution of Snake Venom: Mechanisms, Diversity, and Adaptation

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  Transcriptomic Insights Into the Evolution of Snake Venom: Mechanisms, Diversity, and Adaptation Abstract Snake venoms are evolutionarily refined biochemical arsenals composed of diverse toxins with complex functional roles in predation, defense, and competition. Over the past 2 decades, transcriptomic approaches have transformed venom research by enabling high-resolution insights into gene expression dynamics, molecular diversity, and the evolutionary mechanisms driving venom variation across lineages. In this review, we present a comprehensive synthesis of snake venom transcriptomics literature and propose a conceptual framework structured around three major axes: (1) gene family expansion through duplication and neofunctionalization; (2) regulatory complexity encompassing transcriptional, posttranscriptional, and epigenetic modulation; and (3) ecological selection pressures shaping venom profiles in response to diet, habitat, and interspecific interactions. We integrate findin...

Spatial Analysis of Scorpion Accidents in Brazil: Its Relation to Climate and Urbanization

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Spatial Analysis of Scorpion Accidents in Brazil: Its Relation to Climate and Urbanization


Abstract. This essay has the objective of performing a spatial analysis and of identifying spatial pattern configurations of scorpion accidents, in order to assist in the implementation of projects and interventions for the prevention and control of areas infested by venomous animals. Between the data surveys and statistical data bank organizations we can quote the Departamento de Informática do Sistema Único de Saúde - DATASUS (Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System), agency of the Secretaria de Gestão Estratégica e Participativa do Ministério da Saúde (Office of Strategic and Participatory Management at the Ministry of Health), in the years of 2019 and 2020, for the Brazilian territory. The modeling and data collection were developed, and organized into a geographic database, exploratory data analysis, spatial analysis, as well as the production of thematic maps, with identified spatial patterns. As a result a systematized set of thematic maps was obtained which presents the distribution of scorpion-caused accidents. Finally, a geographic analysis was conducted in order to analyze the data and results found, as well as the information conveyed in terms of demographic factors. It was found then a certain concentration of cases, which can generate a relationship between tropical climates and with the distribution of urbanized areas.


Gardim, G. S., Antonio, A. C. P., and Pugliesi, E. A.: Spatial Analysis of Scorpion Accidents in Brazil: Its Relation to Climate and Urbanization, Adv. Cartogr. GIScience Int. Cartogr. Assoc., 4, 7, https://doi.org/10.5194/ica-adv-4-7-2023, 2023.