Role of snake venom proteases and tissue factor in venom induced hemostatic disorders and local hemorrhage in mice

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  Role of snake venom proteases and tissue factor in venom induced hemostatic disorders and local hemorrhage in mice Abstract Bothrops jararaca venom (BjV) induces hemostatic and inflammatory manifestations. Tissue factor (TF) is essential for hemostasis, but aberrant TF expression can cause coagulopathy. We determined the effect of inhibition of BjV serine proteases and metalloproteinases, as well as host TF, on the systemic coagulopathy and local hemorrhage in envenomed mice. Venom serine proteases induced hypofibrinogenemia whereas venom metalloproteinases induced hemorrhage. TF did not contribute to venom-induced coagulopathy, but played a protective role in venom-induced bleeding in mice. Sachetto, A. T., Mackman, N., & Santoro, M. L. (2026). Role of snake venom proteases and tissue factor in venom induced hemostatic disorders and local hemorrhage in mice. Toxicon , 109299. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxicon.2026.109299

The story of a Tailless Whip Scorpion in Eastern Mediterranean: First report of Sarax ioanniticus (Kritscher, 1959) in Cyprus (Amblypygi: Charinidae)

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The story of a Tailless Whip Scorpion in Eastern Mediterranean: First report of Sarax ioanniticus (Kritscher, 1959) in Cyprus (Amblypygi: Charinidae)

Abstract

Amblypygi, commonly known as tailless whip scorpions or whip spiders, is an order of Arachnida noted for its cryptic habits and predominantly tropical and subtropical distribution. Although the group was first mentioned on the island of Cyprus in 1990, no specific taxonomic information was provided at the time. Through a combination of literature review, targeted field surveys, and citizen-science contributions, we confirm the presence of Sarax ioanniticus (Kritscher, 1959) in Cyprus, representing the first documented record of this species on the island. Following seven years of dedicated searches, a live specimen was collected in 2023 and identified, thereby establishing S. ioanniticus as part of the island’s fauna. This finding extends the known range of S. ioanniticus within the Eastern Mediterranean and underscores the importance of integrating biodiversity research with public engagement to detect elusive or underreported taxa. Future studies should investigate the species’ local distribution, ecological requirements, and potential conservation concerns on Cyprus.

Hadjiconstantis M, Smith M, Zoumides C (2025) The story of a Tailless Whip Scorpion in Eastern Mediterranean: First report of Sarax ioanniticus (Kritscher, 1959) in Cyprus (Amblypygi: Charinidae). ARPHA Preprints. https://doi.org/10.3897/arphapreprints.e157634