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...

Seven New Guanidine Derivatives and One New Hypoxanthine Derivative Isolated from the Scorpion Buthus martensii and Potential Anti-Neuroinflammatory Activity

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Seven New Guanidine Derivatives and One New Hypoxanthine Derivative Isolated from the Scorpion Buthus martensii and Potential Anti-Neuroinflammatory Activity

Abstract

Twelve guanidine derivatives (1–12), including seven new compounds (martensiiagms A–G, 1–7), one new hypoxanthine derivative (martensiiagm H, 13), and 15 known compounds (14–28) were isolated from the whole body of Buthus martensii Karsch and identified by analysis of data. Subsequent biological evaluations revealed the anti-inflammatory activity of compound 1. It attenuates the neuroinflammation and oxidative stress levels prompted by lipopolysaccharide. This attenuation is accomplished by a specific action on mitochondria, which, in turn, caused a significant decrease in reactive oxygen species and pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Seven New Guanidine Derivatives and One New Hypoxanthine Derivative Isolated from the Scorpion Buthus martensii and Potential Anti-Neuroinflammatory Activity
Ke-Ming Li, Wei-Fen Li, Yong-Ming Yan, Guangyi Yang, and Yong-Xian Cheng
Journal of Natural Products Article ASAP