Snake Venom and Antivenom Pharmacology

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  SNAKE VENOM & ANTIVENOM Chemistry, Composition, Mechanisms and Pharmacology Abstract This integrated teaching session for Phase III MBBS students focused on the pharmacology and toxicology of snake venom and the principles of antivenom therapy. The lecture covered the chemistry, composition, mechanisms of action, and pharmacological effects of snake venoms and antivenoms. Rational use of antivenoms, indications, administration protocols, adverse reactions, and supportive management strategies were discussed. The session also highlighted the translational importance of venom-derived compounds in modern drug development. Recent advances in antivenom research, including recombinant human monoclonal antibodies, toxin-specific inhibitors, synthetic antibody technologies, and next-generation broad-spectrum antivenoms, were reviewed. Current discoveries and emerging approaches aimed at improving efficacy, safety, affordability, and accessibility of antivenom therapy were also explor...

Palpal teratology in adult male spiders (Arachnida: Araneae): new cases and synopsis of the historical literature

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Palpal teratology in adult male spiders (Arachnida: Araneae): new cases and synopsis of the historical literature

Abstract 
Palpal teratology is newly reported and illustrated in males of three species of spiders: Hibana incursa (Chamberlin, 1919) (Anyphaenidae) from Mexico, Chococtenus lasdamas Dupérré, 2015 (Ctenidae) from Ecuador (also being newly recorded from the province of Pichincha and the highest altitude record for the species), and Xerolycosa nemoralis (Westring, 1861) (Lycosidae) from Russia. The first detailed photographs and descriptions of the anomalous palps of males of Epicratinus maozinha Gonçalves et Brescovit, 2024 (Zodariidae) from Brazil and Carrhotus assam Caleb, 2020 (Salticidae) from India are presented. Finally, a synopsis of the other literature on palpal teratology in adult male spiders is given.

Many thanks, as always, to Danni Sherwood for forwarding this work via ResearchGate.

Sherwood, Danniella & Gonçalves, Ricardo & Peñaherrera-R, Pedro & Sudhin, Puthoor & Azarkina, Galina & Caleb, John. (2025). Palpal teratology in adult male spiders (Arachnida: Araneae): new cases and synopsis of the historical literature. Invertzool. 22. 505-518. 10.15298/invertzool.22.3.10.