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...

Report of giant vinegaroon (Thelyphonida: Thelyphonidae) predation by scorpion (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in Mexican tropical dry forest

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Report of giant vinegaroon (Thelyphonida: Thelyphonidae) predation by scorpion (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in Mexican tropical dry forest

Abstract
This study reports the first documented case of predation of an early instar thelyphonid, Mastigoproctus sp., by the scorpion Centruroides elegans in a dry tropical forest in Mexico. The overlap in microhabitats between these two species suggests that their encounters are facilitated by the errant behavior of C. elegans. Our findings contribute to the understanding of the ecological dynamics involving thelyphonids and highlight the vulnerability of juvenile stages to predation, expanding the known predators of these arachnids. 
André F. A. Lira, Oscar G. del-Pozo, Gerardo A. Contreras-Félix, Report of giant vinegaroon (Thelyphonida: Thelyphonidae) predation by scorpion (Scorpiones: Buthidae) in Mexican tropical dry forest, Acta Arachnologica, 2025, Volume 74, Issue 2, Pages 123-124, Released on J-STAGE December 11, 2025, Online ISSN 1880-7852, Print ISSN 0001-5202, https://doi.org/10.2476/asjaa.74.123, https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/asjaa/74/2/74_123/_article/-char/en