Herpetological misinformation and sensationalism: media framing on biological and ecological aspects of the golden lancehead (Bothrops insularis)

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  Herpetological misinformation and sensationalism: media framing on biological and ecological aspects of the golden lancehead (Bothrops insularis) Abstract The internet is currently one of the most important means of communication, which may include the circulation of misinformation. Snakes have always been a target of the sensationalist media, being pictured as scary and aggressive animals to be killed indiscriminately by humans. Such fear based on misinformation may compromise species conservation. Here, we address the spread of misinformation about Bothrops insularis and Queimada Grande Island in digital media, highlighting the negative impact on public perception and species conservation. The analysis of 230 online sources revealed that approximately 94% of them contained false information, many using sensationalist language, especially regarding the toxicity of the venom and the population density of the snake, as well as bringing contents that did not align with scientific d...

Integrative Approaches in Snake Venom-Induced Tissue and Organ Toxicity: Ethnomedicinal and Phytochemical Strategies as Complementary Antivenom Therapies

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Integrative Approaches in Snake Venom-Induced Tissue and Organ Toxicity: Ethnomedicinal and Phytochemical Strategies as Complementary Antivenom Therapies

Abstract

Objective

To review the pathophysiological mechanisms of snakebite envenomation, especially the roles of phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) and snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs), and to assess the therapeutic potential of plant-derived phytochemicals as complementary options to traditional antivenom therapy.

Materials and Methods

A comprehensive literature review was performed to identify studies addressing snake venom–induced tissue and organ toxicity and the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants and phytochemicals. The databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar were systematically searched. Key search terms included combinations of snakebite, snake venom, phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂), snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs), tissue damage, oxidative stress, medicinal plants, phytochemicals, ethnomedicine, and antivenom adjuvant therapy.

Results

Snake venom enzymes, including PLA₂ and SVMPs, cause severe local and systemic effects, such as neurotoxicity, myotoxicity, cytotoxicity, and hemotoxicity, leading to paralysis, haemorrhage, necrosis, and multi-organ failure. While conventional antivenoms effectively neutralize systemic toxicity, they offer limited protection against rapid local damage. Phytochemicals from medicinal plants show promising potential to counteract the effects of venom by neutralising reactive oxygen species, stabilising cellular membranes, and inhibiting venom enzymes. Evidence suggests that combining these compounds with antivenom improves therapeutic effectiveness, reduces the required antivenom dose, and decreases adverse reactions.

Conclusion

Plant-derived phytochemicals are promising adjunctive therapies for snakebite envenomation, targeting oxidative stress, inflammation, and venom enzyme activity. Combining phytomedicine with antivenom offers a synergistic, accessible, and cost-effective approach to improving outcomes, particularly in resource-limited areas. Further research is needed to confirm the safety, efficacy, and optimal delivery methods for clinical use.

Rajkapoor, B., Prabhakaran kala, P., Gandhi, S., Periasamy, S., & V, S. R. (2026). Integrative Approaches in Snake Venom-Induced Tissue and Organ Toxicity: Ethnomedicinal and Phytochemical Strategies as Complementary Antivenom Therapies. Pharmacological Research - Natural Products, 100597. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prenap.2026.100597