Arácnido Taxonomy

  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...