Interspecific and Intraspecific Variation in Venom Proteomics, Composition, and Antivenom Efficacy of Thai Cobras (Naja spp.): Highlighting the Distinct Profile of the Newly Identified Naja fuxi

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  Interspecific and Intraspecific Variation in Venom Proteomics, Composition, and Antivenom Efficacy of Thai Cobras (Naja spp.): Highlighting the Distinct Profile of the Newly Identified Naja fuxi Abstract Cobras ( Naja  spp.) account for a significant number of snakebite incidents in Thailand. The monocled cobra ( Naja kaouthia ) has historically been considered the only non-spitting species, but recent evidence indicates population-level diversification in central and southern regions. Additionally, a newly described non-spitting species, the mountain cobra ( Naja fuxi ), has been identified in mountainous areas. This study investigates venom variation among Thai  Naja  species and populations and evaluates the efficacy of monovalent and polyvalent Thai antivenoms. Proteomic analyses revealed that three-finger toxins dominate  Naja  venoms, whereas  N. fuxi  exhibits a distinct profile enriched in snake venom metalloproteinases and cysteine-rich...

Exploring the Pain-Relieving Potential: Unveiling Antinociceptive Properties in Animal Venoms and Toxins

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Exploring the Pain-Relieving Potential: Unveiling Antinociceptive Properties in Animal Venoms and Toxins

Abstract

Currently, commercially available pain medications can cause adverse effects. Within this framework, researchers have been exploring new drug candidates derived from animal venoms and toxins. The objective of this study was to investigate the number of molecules with potential for pain relief derived from animal venoms and toxins, which could potentially contribute to the development of new biopharmaceuticals. We conducted a literature search in January 2025, covering the period from 1960 to 2025, in two Latin American and nine international scientific databases. The results consisted of 212 articles selected for review. From these articles, 152 toxins and venoms with analgesic potential were identified and classified into 14 different types of pharmacological targets. The peptides investigated, with masses between 500 Da and 5000 Da, are strong candidates for alternative biopharmaceuticals. Most of the toxins found interact with ion channels, representing an alternative to commercially available drugs.

Angstmam, D. G., Jeronimo, B. C., Cavalcante, J. D., Pereira, A. F., Villarreal, C. F., Pimenta, D. C., & Ferreira Junior, R. S. (2026). Exploring the Pain-Relieving Potential: Unveiling Antinociceptive Properties in Animal Venoms and Toxins. Toxins, 18(2), 69. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins18020069