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Guidolin FR, de Godoi KS, Megale AAA, da Silva CCF, Kodama RT, Cajado-Carvalho D, Iwai LK, Spencer PJ, Portaro FCV, da Silva WD. Comparing Traditional and Toxin-Oriented Approaches towards Antivenom Production against Bitis arietans Snake Venom. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:584. [PMID: 37756010 PMCID: PMC10537286 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15090584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Accidents with snakes are responsible for about 32,000 deaths annually in sub-Saharan Africa, caused mostly by snakes from the genus Bitis, in particular Bitis arietans. B. arietans venom is composed of a complex mixture of toxins, mainly metalloproteases, serine proteases, phospholipases, lectins, and disintegrins. In this work, we compared two approaches to anti-B. arietans antivenom production: immunization with crude snake venom ("traditional approach") and immunization with selected key toxins isolated from the snake venom ("toxin oriented" approach). Fractions from B. arietans venom were isolated by size exclusion chromatography. Crude venom and samples containing serine proteases or metalloproteases were selected for the immunization of BALB/c mice. Anti-B. arietans and anti-serine proteases plasmas showed a similar recognition profile and higher titers and affinity than the anti-metalloproteases plasma. Cross-recognition of other Bitis venoms was observed, but with low intensity. Although the plasma of all experimental groups inhibited the enzymatic activity of B. arietans venom in vitro, in vivo protection was not achieved. Our results have shown limitations in both approaches considered. Based on this, we proposed a model of polyclonal, species-specific, monovalent antivenoms that could be used as a base to produce customizable polyvalent sera for use in sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Raimondi Guidolin
- Immunochemistry Laboratory, Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil; (K.S.d.G.); (A.A.A.M.)
| | | | | | | | - Roberto Tadashi Kodama
- Laboratory of Structure and Function of Biomolecules, Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil; (C.C.F.d.S.); (R.T.K.); (F.C.V.P.)
| | - Daniela Cajado-Carvalho
- Laboratory of Applied Toxinology (LETA), Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS), Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil; (D.C.-C.); (L.K.I.)
| | - Leo Kei Iwai
- Laboratory of Applied Toxinology (LETA), Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS), Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil; (D.C.-C.); (L.K.I.)
| | - Patrick Jack Spencer
- Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil;
| | - Fernanda Calheta Vieira Portaro
- Laboratory of Structure and Function of Biomolecules, Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil; (C.C.F.d.S.); (R.T.K.); (F.C.V.P.)
| | - Wilmar Dias da Silva
- Immunochemistry Laboratory, Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil; (K.S.d.G.); (A.A.A.M.)
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Godoi KSD, Guidolin FR, Portaro FCV, Spencer PJ, da Silva WD. Anti-Metalloproteases: Production and Characterization of Polyclonal IgG Anti-F2 Fraction Antibodies Purified from the Venom of the Snake Bitis arietans. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15040264. [PMID: 37104202 PMCID: PMC10145261 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15040264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Bitis arietans is a medically important snake found in Sub-Saharan Africa. The envenomation is characterized by local and systemic effects, and the lack of antivenoms aggravates the treatment. This study aimed to identify venom toxins and develop antitoxins. The F2 fraction obtained from Bitis arietans venom (BaV) demonstrated the presence of several proteins in its composition, including metalloproteases. Titration assays carried out together with the immunization of mice demonstrated the development of anti-F2 fraction antibodies by the animals. The determination of the affinity of antibodies against different Bitis venoms was evaluated, revealing that only BaV had peptides recognized by anti-F2 fraction antibodies. In vivo analyses demonstrated the hemorrhagic capacity of the venom and the effectiveness of the antibodies in inhibiting up to 80% of the hemorrhage and 0% of the lethality caused by BaV. Together, the data indicate: (1) the prevalence of proteins that influence hemostasis and envenomation; (2) the effectiveness of antibodies in inhibiting specific activities of BaV; and (3) isolation and characterization of toxins can become crucial steps in the development of new alternative treatments. Thus, the results obtained help in understanding the envenoming mechanism and may be useful for the study of new complementary therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Patrick Jack Spencer
- Biotechnology Center, Nuclear and Energy Research Institute, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
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Romo E, Torres M, Martin-Solano S. Current situation of snakebites envenomation in the Neotropics: Biotechnology, a versatile tool in the production of antivenoms. BIONATURA 2022. [DOI: 10.21931/rb/2022.07.04.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenomation is a neglected tropical disease that affects millions of people around the world with a great impact on health and the economy. Unfortunately, public health programs do not include this kind of disease as a priority in their social programs. Cases of snakebite envenomations in the Neotropics are inaccurate due to inadequate disease management from medical records to the choice of treatments. Victims of snakebite envenomation are primarily found in impoverished agricultural areas where remote conditions limit the availability of antivenom. Antivenom serum is the only Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment used up to date. However, it has several disadvantages in terms of safety and effectiveness. This review provides a comprehensive insight dealing with the current epidemiological status of snakebites in the Neotropics and technologies employed in antivenom production. Also, modern biotechnological tools such as transcriptomic, proteomic, immunogenic, high-density peptide microarray and epitope mapping are highlighted for producing new-generation antivenom sera. These results allow us to propose strategic solutions in the Public Health Sector for managing this disease.
Keywords: antivenom, biotechnology, neglected tropical disease, omics, recombinant antibody.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Romo
- Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Sangolquí, Ecuador
| | - Marbel Torres
- Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Sangolquí, Ecuador, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Humana (GISAH), Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Immunology and Virology Laboratory, Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Center, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas, ESPE, Sangolquí, Ecuador
| | - Sarah Martin-Solano
- Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Sangolquí, Ecuador, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Humana (GISAH), Carrera de Ingeniería en Biotecnología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida y la Agricultura, Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Grupo de Investigación en Biodiversidad, Zoonosis y Salud Pública, Universidad Central del Ecuador
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4
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Offor BC, Muller B, Piater LA. A Review of the Proteomic Profiling of African Viperidae and Elapidae Snake Venoms and Their Antivenom Neutralisation. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14110723. [PMID: 36355973 PMCID: PMC9694588 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14110723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) that results from the injection of snake venom of a venomous snake into animals and humans. In Africa (mainly in sub-Saharan Africa), over 100,000 envenomings and over 10,000 deaths per annum from snakebite have been reported. Difficulties in snakebite prevention and antivenom treatment are believed to result from a lack of epidemiological data and underestimated figures on snakebite envenoming-related morbidity and mortality. There are species- and genus-specific variations associated with snake venoms in Africa and across the globe. These variations contribute massively to diverse differences in venom toxicity and pathogenicity that can undermine the efficacy of adopted antivenom therapies used in the treatment of snakebite envenoming. There is a need to profile all snake venom proteins of medically important venomous snakes endemic to Africa. This is anticipated to help in the development of safer and more effective antivenoms for the treatment of snakebite envenoming within the continent. In this review, the proteomes of 34 snake venoms from the most medically important snakes in Africa, namely the Viperidae and Elipdae, were extracted from the literature. The toxin families were grouped into dominant, secondary, minor, and others based on the abundance of the protein families in the venom proteomes. The Viperidae venom proteome was dominated by snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs-41%), snake venom serine proteases (SVSPs-16%), and phospholipase A2 (PLA2-17%) protein families, while three-finger toxins (3FTxs-66%) and PLA2s (16%) dominated those of the Elapidae. We further review the neutralisation of these snake venoms by selected antivenoms widely used within the African continent. The profiling of African snake venom proteomes will aid in the development of effective antivenom against snakebite envenoming and, additionally, could possibly reveal therapeutic applications of snake venom proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedict C. Offor
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa
| | - Beric Muller
- South Africa Venom Suppliers CC, Louis Trichardt 0920, South Africa
| | - Lizelle A. Piater
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +27-11-559-2403
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da Costa CBP, Carvalho VRD, Ferreira LLC, Mattos JLC, Garcia LDM, Antunes MDS, Martins FJ, Ratcliffe NA, Cisne R, Castro HC. Production of hyperimmune sera: a study of digestion and fractionation methodologies for the purification process of heterologous immunoglobulins. TOXIN REV 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/15569543.2022.2124421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Camila Braz Pereira da Costa
- Instituto Vital Brazil, Niterói, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências e Biotecnologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Francislene Juliana Martins
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências e Biotecnologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Norman A. Ratcliffe
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências e Biotecnologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
- Department of Biosciences, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Rafael Cisne
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências e Biotecnologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Helena C. Castro
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências e Biotecnologia, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Brazil
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Dias da Silva W, De Andrade SA, Megale ÂAA, De Souza DA, Sant’Anna OA, Magnoli FC, Guidolin FR, Godoi KS, Saladini LY, Spencer PJ, Portaro FCV. Antibodies as Snakebite Antivenoms: Past and Future. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14090606. [PMID: 36136544 PMCID: PMC9503307 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14090606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Snakebite envenomation is considered a neglected tropical disease, affecting tens of thousands of people each year. The recommended treatment is the use of antivenom, which is composed of immunoglobulins or immunoglobulin fragments obtained from the plasma of animals hyperimmunized with one (monospecific) or several (polyspecific) venoms. In this review, the efforts made in the improvement of the already available antivenoms and the development of new antivenoms, focusing on snakes of medical importance from sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, are described. Some antivenoms currently used are composed of whole IgGs, whereas others use F(ab’)2 fragments. The classic methods of attaining snake antivenoms are presented, in addition to new strategies to improve their effectiveness. Punctual changes in immunization protocols, in addition to the use of cross-reactivity between venoms from different snakes for the manufacture of more potent and widely used antivenoms, are presented. It is known that venoms are a complex mixture of components; however, advances in the field of antivenoms have shown that there are key toxins that, if effectively blocked, are capable of reversing the condition of in vivo envenomation. These studies provide an opportunity for the use of monoclonal antibodies in the development of new-generation antivenoms. Thus, monoclonal antibodies and their fragments are described as a possible alternative for the production of antivenoms, regardless of the venom. This review also highlights the challenges associated with their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilmar Dias da Silva
- Immuchemistry Laboratory, Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
- Correspondence: (W.D.S.); (F.C.V.P.)
| | - Sonia A. De Andrade
- Biopharmaceuticals Laboratory, Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Lucas Yuri Saladini
- Laboratory of Structure and Function of Biomolecules, Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
| | | | - Fernanda Calheta Vieira Portaro
- Laboratory of Structure and Function of Biomolecules, Butantan Institute, São Paulo 05503-900, Brazil
- Correspondence: (W.D.S.); (F.C.V.P.)
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Estrada-Gomez S, Núñez V, Vargas-Muñoz LJ, Madrid-Bracamonte CA, Preciado LM. Characterization of a Lab-Scale Process to Produce Whole IgG Antivenom Covering Scorpion Stings by Genus Tityus and Centruroides of Colombia. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15091047. [PMID: 36145268 PMCID: PMC9502926 DOI: 10.3390/ph15091047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Scorpion stings are a public health event in Colombia lacking official epidemiological data, and are considered a medical emergency. Despite the two local producers of antivenoms, neither of them is currently manufacturing scorpion antivenoms. We present the characterization of a lab-scale process to produce the first specific scorpion antivenom for Colombia, formulated to cover scorpion stings produced by Tityus pachyurus, Tityus asthenes, Tityus fuhrmanii, Centruroides spp. To do so, rabbits were immunized by subcutaneous injection with each venom using an immunization program of 3 months. After each rabbit reached the required IgG concentration, rabbits were bled, and plasma was separated by decantation under refrigeration. Immunoglobulins were purified from each hyperimmune plasma using a methodology including precipitation with ammonium sulfate, thermocoagulation, and purification through an ultrafiltration process using a ready-to-use and reusable laboratory crossflow tangential cassette with a polyethersulfone membrane. Each hyperimmune plasma was processed by being separated and freeze-dried at the end of the process. Rabbits were able to produce specific IgG antibodies recognizing the respective immunization venom; even an in vitro interspecies cross-recognition was detected. The separation and purification processes allowed us to obtain IgG products without considerable contaminants (except for albumin). The process was characterized, and critical stages were identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Estrada-Gomez
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Terapeuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Medellin 050010, Colombia
- Tech Life Saving (TLS), Tech Innovation Group Company, Medellin 050022, Colombia
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +57-604-2192315 or +57-604-2196535
| | - Vitelbina Núñez
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Terapeuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Medellin 050010, Colombia
- Escuela de Microbiología, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín 050010, Colombia
| | - Leidy Johana Vargas-Muñoz
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Terapeuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Medellin 050010, Colombia
- Tech Life Saving (TLS), Tech Innovation Group Company, Medellin 050022, Colombia
- Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Medellin 050012, Colombia
| | | | - Lina Maria Preciado
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Terapeuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia UdeA, Medellin 050010, Colombia
- Tech Life Saving (TLS), Tech Innovation Group Company, Medellin 050022, Colombia
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Norouznejad N, Zolfagharian H, Babaie M, Ghobeh M. Purification of Therapeutic Serums of Snake Anti-Venom with Caprylic Acid. J Pharmacopuncture 2022; 25:114-120. [PMID: 35837146 PMCID: PMC9240411 DOI: 10.3831/kpi.2022.25.2.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nilofar Norouznejad
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Zolfagharian
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Mahdi Babaie
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Maryam Ghobeh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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Mender MM, Bolton F, Berry C, Young M. Antivenom: An immunotherapy for the treatment of snakebite envenoming in sub-Saharan Africa. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2021; 129:435-477. [PMID: 35305724 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2021.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Snakebite envenoming (SBE) leads to significant morbidity and mortality, resulting in over 90,000 deaths and approximately 400,000 amputations annually. In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) alone, SBE accounts for over 30,000 deaths per annum. Since 2017, SBE has been classified as a priority Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The major species responsible for mortality from SBE within SSA are from the Bitis, Dendroaspis, Echis and Naja genera. Pharmacologically active toxins such as metalloproteinases, serine proteinases, 3-finger toxins, kunitz-type toxins, and phospholipase A2s are the primary snake venom components. These toxins induce cytotoxicity, coagulopathy, hemorrhage, and neurotoxicity in envenomed victims. Antivenom is currently the only available venom-specific treatment for SBE and contains purified equine or ovine polyclonal antibodies, collected from donor animals repeatedly immunized with low doses of adjuvanted venom. The resulting plasma or serum contains a high titre of specific antibodies, which can then be collected and stored until required. The purified antibodies are either whole IgG, monovalent fragment antibody (Fab) or divalent fragment antibody F(ab')2. Despite pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic differences, all three are effective in the treatment of SBE. No antivenom is without adverse reactions but, the level of their impact and severity varies from benign early adverse reactions to the rarely occurring fatal anaphylactic shock. However, the major side effects are largely reversible with immediate administration of adrenaline and corticosteroids. There are 16 different antivenoms marketed within SSA, but the efficacy and safety profiles are only published for less than 50% of these products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mender M Mender
- School of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom; Department of Research and Development, MicroPharm Ltd, Newcastle Emlyn, United Kingdom.
| | - Fiona Bolton
- Department of Research and Development, MicroPharm Ltd, Newcastle Emlyn, United Kingdom
| | - Colin Berry
- School of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Young
- School of Bioscience, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
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Ceesay B, Taal A, Kalisa M, Odikro MA, Agbope D, Kenu E. Analysis of snakebite data in Volta and Oti Regions, Ghana, 2019. Pan Afr Med J 2021; 40:131. [PMID: 34909099 PMCID: PMC8641636 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2021.40.131.28217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction globally about 5.4 million people are affected by snakebite annually leading to 2.7 million cases of snakebite envenoming and 81,000-138,000 deaths. In sub-Saharan Africa, the burden of disease caused by snakebite is often underestimated despite its status as a category A neglected tropical disease. We reviewed snakebite data to determine the magnitude of snakebite by person, place, and time in the Volta and Oti Regions of Ghana. Methods we conducted a descriptive secondary data analysis using snakebite data from 2014-2018 extracted from the District Health Information and Management Systems (DHIMS 2) database. Data were analyzed descriptively by person, place, and time using summary statistics and results were presented in proportions and graphs. Missed outbreaks were determined through calculation of cumulative sum (CUSUM 2). Results a total of 2,973 cases of snakebites were reported over the 5 years of which 1675 (56.3%) were males. Majority 867 (29.2%) of snakebite victims were between 20-34 years of age with recorded 5-year average incidence of 24 snakebite cases per 100,000. Nkwanta North District recorded the highest cases 499 (16.8%) with most of the snakebite cases 2,411 (81%) recorded in the rainy season. Overall, there was a decreasing trend of snakebites and four missed snakebite outbreaks occurred during the period. No snakebite death was recorded. Conclusion a 5-year average snakebite incidence of 24 cases per 100,000 persons was recorded and Nkwanta North District recorded the highest cases with peaks occurring in rainy and harvesting seasons. Four outbreaks were missed. There is a need to conduct periodic data analysis for effective intervention programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baba Ceesay
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (GFELTP), School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.,Ministry of Health, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Abdoulie Taal
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (GFELTP), School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.,Ministry of Health, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Momodou Kalisa
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (GFELTP), School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.,Ministry of Health, Banjul, The Gambia
| | - Magdalene Akos Odikro
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (GFELTP), School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Ernest Kenu
- Ghana Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (GFELTP), School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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11
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Sánchez A, Segura Á, Pla D, Munuera J, Villalta M, Quesada-Bernat S, Chavarría D, Herrera M, Gutiérrez JM, León G, Calvete JJ, Vargas M. Comparative venomics and preclinical efficacy evaluation of a monospecific Hemachatus antivenom towards sub-Saharan Africa cobra venoms. J Proteomics 2021; 240:104196. [PMID: 33775842 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2021.104196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cobras are the most medically important elapid snakes in Africa. The African genera Naja and Hemachatus include snakes with neurotoxic and cytotoxic venoms, with shared biochemical, toxinological and antigenic characteristics. We have studied the antigenic cross-reactivity of four sub-Saharan Africa cobra venoms against an experimental monospecific Hemachatus haemachatus antivenom through comparative proteomics, preclinical assessment of neutralization, and third generation antivenomics. The venoms of H. haemachatus, N. annulifera, N. mossambica and N. nigricollis share an overall qualitative family toxin composition but depart in their proportions of three-finger toxin (3FTxs) classes, phospholipases A2 (PLA2s), snake venom metalloproteinases (SVMPs), and cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISPs). A monospecific anti-Hemachatus antivenom produced by Costa Rican Instituto Clodomiro Picado neutralized the lethal activity of the homologous and heterologous neuro/cytotoxic (H. haemachatus) and cyto/cardiotoxic (N. mossambica and N. nigricollis) venoms of the three spitting cobras sampled, while it was ineffective against the lethal and toxic activities of the neurotoxic venom of the non-spitting snouted cobra N. annulifera. The ability of the anti-Hemachatus-ICP antivenom to neutralize toxic (dermonecrotic and anticoagulant) and enzymatic (PLA2) activities of spitting cobra venoms suggested a closer kinship of H. haemachatus and Naja subgenus Afrocobra spitting cobras than to Naja subgenus Uraeus neurotoxic taxa. These results were confirmed by third generation antivenomics. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE: African Naja species represent the most widespread medically important elapid snakes across Africa. To gain deeper insight into the spectrum of medically relevant toxins, we compared the proteome of three spitting cobras (Hemachatus haemachatus, Naja mossambica and N. nigricollis) and one non-spitting cobra (N. annulifera). Three finger toxins and phospholipases A2 are the two major protein families among the venoms analyzed. The development of antivenoms of broad species coverage is an urgent need in sub-Saharan Africa. An equine antivenom raised against H. haemachatus venom showed cross-reactivity with the venoms of H. haemachatus, N. mossambica and N. nigricollis, while having poor recognition of the venom of N. annulifera. This immunological information provides clues for the design of optimum venom mixtures for the preparation of broad spectrum antivenoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Sánchez
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica.
| | - Álvaro Segura
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Davinia Pla
- Laboratorio de Venómica Evolutiva y Traslacional, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, CSIC, Valencia, Spain
| | - José Munuera
- Laboratorio de Venómica Evolutiva y Traslacional, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, CSIC, Valencia, Spain; Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingenieria Agronómica y del Medio Natural, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mauren Villalta
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Sarai Quesada-Bernat
- Laboratorio de Venómica Evolutiva y Traslacional, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, CSIC, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - María Herrera
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - José María Gutiérrez
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Guillermo León
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Juan J Calvete
- Laboratorio de Venómica Evolutiva y Traslacional, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, CSIC, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Mariángela Vargas
- Instituto Clodomiro Picado, Facultad de Microbiología, Universidad de Costa Rica, San José, Costa Rica
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Bitis arietans Snake Venom Induces an Inflammatory Response Which Is Partially Dependent on Lipid Mediators. Toxins (Basel) 2020; 12:toxins12090594. [PMID: 32937985 PMCID: PMC7551280 DOI: 10.3390/toxins12090594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Bitis arietans is a snake of medical importance, as it is responsible for more accidents in humans and domestic animals than all other African snakes put together. The accidents are characterized by local and systemic alterations, such as inflammation, cardiovascular and hemostatic disturbances, which can lead victims to death or permanent disability. However, little is known about the envenomation mechanism, especially regarding the inflammatory response, which is related to severe clinical conditions triggered by the venom. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the inflammatory response related to the B. arietans envenomation using a peritonitis mice model. By pharmacological interventions and use of mice genetically deficient of the 5-lipoxygenase enzyme (5-LO-/-) or platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor (PAFR-/- the participation of eicosanoids and PAF in this response was also investigated. The obtained results demonstrated that the venom induces an in vivo inflammatory response, characterized by an early increased vascular permeability, followed by an accumulation of polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells in the peritoneal cavity, accompanied by the production of the eicosanoids LTB4, LTC4, TXB2 and PGE2, as well as the local and systemic production of IL-6 and MCP-1. These inflammatory events were attenuated by the pre-treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs that interfere in lipid mediators' functions. However, 5-LO-/- mice did not show a reduction of inflammatory response induced by the venom, while PAFR-/- mice showed a reduction in both the PMN leukocytes number and the local and systemic production of IL-6 and MCP-1. This study demonstrated that the Bitis arietans venom contains toxins that trigger an inflammatory process, which is partially dependent on lipid mediators, and may contribute to the envenomation pathology.
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Pan X, Wu Y, Wang W, Zhang L, Xiao G. Development of horse neutralizing immunoglobulin and immunoglobulin fragments against Junín virus. Antiviral Res 2019; 174:104666. [PMID: 31760108 PMCID: PMC7114285 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2019.104666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Argentine haemorrhagic fever (AHF) is a rodent-borne disease with a lethality as high as ~30%, which is caused by the New World arenavirus, Junín virus (JUNV). It was once a major epidemic in South America and puts millions of people in Argentina at risk. Here, we aimed to develop horse antibodies or antibody fragments against JUNV. Before preparing the horse antibodies, a strategy to efficiently generate horse antisera was established based on comparisons among immunogens and immunization methods in both mice and horses. Antisera against JUNV were finally obtained by vaccinating horses with vesicular stomatitis virus pseudotypes bearing JUNV GP. The horse antibodies IgG and F(ab’)2 were subsequently demonstrated to effectively neutralize vesicular stomatitis virus pseudotypes bearing JUNV GP and to show some cross-neutralization against pathogenic New World arenaviruses. Further research revealed that Asp123 on GP1 is an important site for the binding of antibodies targeting mainly JUNV GP1 for neutralization. Collectively, this study presents an efficient strategy to develop horse antisera against JUNV and provides GP1-specific horse antibodies as potential therapeutics for AHF. Junín pseudo-typed virus efficiently stimulates neutralizing antibodies in mice and horses. Horse immunoglobulin and immunoglobulin fragments potentially neutralize Junín virus. Horse antibodies show some cross-neutralization against the pathogenic New World arenaviruses. Asp123 is an important site on glycoprotein 1 for the binding of horse neutralizing antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Wei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Leike Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China
| | - Gengfu Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China.
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Naja annulifera Snake: New insights into the venom components and pathogenesis of envenomation. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007017. [PMID: 30657756 PMCID: PMC6338361 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Naja annulifera is a medically important venomous snake occurring in some of the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. Accidental bites result in severe coagulation disturbances, systemic inflammation and heart damage, as reported in dogs, and death, by respiratory arrest, in humans. Despite the medical importance of N. annulifera, little is known about its venom composition and the pathogenesis of envenomation. In this paper, the toxic, inflammatory and immunogenic properties of N. annulifera venom were analyzed. Methodology/Principal findings Venom proteomic analysis identified 79 different proteins, including Three Finger Toxins, Cysteine Rich Secretory Proteins, Metalloproteinases, Phospholipases A2 (PLA2), Hyaluronidase, L-amino-acid oxidase, Cobra Venom Factor and Serine Proteinase. The presence of PLA2, hyaluronidase, fibrinogenolytic and anticoagulant activities was detected using functional assays. The venom was cytotoxic to human keratinocytes. In an experimental murine model of envenomation, it was found that the venom induced local changes, such as swelling, which was controlled by anti-inflammatory drugs. Moreover, the venom caused death, which was preceded by systemic inflammation and pulmonary hemorrhage. The venom was shown to be immunogenic, inducing a strong humoral immune response, with the production of antibodies able to recognize venom components with high molecular weight and to neutralize its lethal activity. Conclusions/Significance The results obtained in this study demonstrate that N. annulifera venom contains toxins able to induce local and systemic inflammation, which can contribute to lung damage and death. Moreover, the venom is immunogenic, an important feature that must be considered during the production of a therapeutic anti-N. annulifera antivenom. N. annulifera is a dangerous snake that belongs to the Elapidae family. It is found in some of the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and has caused accidents in humans and dogs. In this study, we characterized some of the biochemical, toxic and immunogenic properties of N. annulifera venom. We showed that the venom is composed of several proteins, some of which display enzymatic activities, such as phospholipase A2, hyaluronidase, metalloproteinases and serine proteinases. The venom promoted disturbances in the human coagulation system and was cytotoxic to human epidermal cells. Using a mouse model, we showed that the venom promotes local reactions that were reduced with anti-inflammatory drugs. The venom caused systemic inflammation, lung hemorrhage and death. Further, the venom stimulated production of high antibody titers when injected into mice and the antiserum produced was able to inhibit venom-induced death. This study demonstrated that N. annulifera venom contains toxins that trigger inflammatory process, which may contribute to the envenomation pathology. Moreover, the venom is immunogenic, an important aspect for the production of an efficient N. annulifera antivenom.
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Megale ÂAA, Magnoli FC, Kuniyoshi AK, Iwai LK, Tambourgi DV, Portaro FCV, da Silva WD. Kn-Ba: a novel serine protease isolated from Bitis arietans snake venom with fibrinogenolytic and kinin-releasing activities. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2018; 24:38. [PMID: 30564275 PMCID: PMC6293559 DOI: 10.1186/s40409-018-0176-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bitis arietans is a venomous snake found in sub-Saharan Africa and in parts of Morocco and Saudi Arabia. The envenomation is characterized by local and systemic reactions including pain, blistering, edema and tissue damage, besides hemostatic and cardiovascular disturbances, which can cause death or permanent disabilities in its victims. However, the action mechanisms that provoke these effects remain poorly understood, especially the activities of purified venom components. Therefore, in order to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that make the Bitis arietans venom so potent and harmful to human beings, this study reports the isolation and biochemical characterization of a snake venom serine protease (SVSP). Methods Solubilized venom was fractionated by molecular exclusion chromatography and the proteolytic activity was determined using fluorescent substrates. The peaks that showed serine protease activity were determined by blocking the proteolytic activity with site-directed inhibitors. In sequence, the fraction of interest was submitted to another cycle of molecular exclusion chromatography. The purified serine protease was identified by mass spectrometry and characterized biochemically and immunochemically. Results A serine protease of 33 kDa with fibrinogen-degrading and kinin-releasing activities was isolated, described, and designated herein as Kn-Ba. The experimental Butantan Institute antivenom produced against Bitis arietans venom inhibited the Kn-Ba activity. Conclusions The in vitro activities of Kn-Ba can be correlated with the capacity of the venom to provoke bleeding and clotting disorders as well as hypotension, which are common symptoms presented by envenomed victims. Obtaining satisfactory Kn-Ba inhibition through the experimental antivenom is important, given the WHO’s recommendation of immunotherapy in cases of human accidents with venomous snakes. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40409-018-0176-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Leo Kei Iwai
- 2Special Laboratory of Applied Toxinology / Center of Toxins, Immune-Response and Cell Signaling (CeTICS), Butantan Institute, São Paulo, 05503-900 Brazil
| | - Denise V Tambourgi
- 1Immunochemistry Laboratory, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, 05503-900 Brazil
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Salomão MDG. Epidemiologia dos acidentes por animais peçonhentos e a distribuição de soros: estado de arte e a situação mundial. Rev Salud Publica (Bogota) 2018; 20:523-529. [DOI: 10.15446/rsap.v20n4.70432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Acidentes por animais peçonhentos são discutidos sob perspectiva histórica de ações de estado. Considerados doenças negligenciadas eles causam prejuízos sociais e econômicos, em pessoas em idade produtiva de regiões rurais em países pobres. Poucos países dispõem de políticas públicas de saúde para profilaxia e tratamento adequadas e as maiores perdas ocorrem na África e Ásia. Os 46 produtores mundiais de soros não suprem as necessidades globais e acesso ao tratamento é difícil, mesmo em países com produção própria. Sistemas de Notificação produzem levantamentos imprecisos sobre necessidades de soro e apesar da notificação compulsória, o Brasil carece de bancos de dados robustos de amplo acesso. O Rio Grande do Sul, tem um dos sistemas mais eficientes, permitindo a chegada do soro em tempo seguro para o atendimento de qualidade. Muito se avançou em testes diagnóstico, porém sua aplicação em áreas pobres é inviabilizada pelos custos. Melhorias na qualidade de produção dos soros, via boas práticas laboratoriais e fabris, minimizam resultados insatisfatórios de tratamentos com produtos de origem e ação duvidosa. Desenvolvimento de soros empregando Biotecnologia e Ensaios Clínicos bem desenhados, são chave para tratamento de envenenamentos por agentes aparentados em diferentes regiões (soros continentais ou universais). Parcerias internacionais são fundamentais, além de estoques reguladores, semelhantes aos adotados em vacinas, para suprir a demanda mundial. A qualificação dos soros antivenenos certamente minimizará equívocos de uso. Apoio governamental à pesquisa é alavanca propulsora e a ferramenta mais eficiente de preservação da vida, evitando sobrecargas social e previdenciária principalmente em países em desenvolvimento.
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da Rocha DG, Fernandez JH, de Almeida CMC, da Silva CL, Magnoli FC, da Silva OÉ, da Silva WD. The complementarity-determining region sequences in IgY antivenom hypervariable regions. Data Brief 2017; 13:717-722. [PMID: 28748206 PMCID: PMC5512210 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2017.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The data presented in this article are related to the research article entitled "Development of IgY antibodies against anti-snake toxins endowed with highly lethal neutralizing activity" (da Rocha et al., 2017) [1]. Complementarity-determining region (CDR) sequences are variable antibody (Ab) sequences that respond with specificity, duration and strength to identify and bind to antigen (Ag) epitopes. B lymphocytes isolated from hens immunized with Bitis arietans (Ba) and anti-Crotalus durissus terrificus (Cdt) venoms and expressing high specificity, affinity and toxicity neutralizing antibody titers were used as DNA sources. The VLF1, CDR1, CDR2, VLR1 and CDR3 sequences were validated by BLASTp, and values corresponding to IgY VL and VH anti-Ba or anti-Cdt venoms were identified, registered [Gallus gallus IgY Fv Light chain (GU815099)/Gallus gallus IgY Fv Heavy chain (GU815098)] and used for molecular modeling of IgY scFv anti-Ba. The resulting CDR1, CDR2 and CDR3 sequences were combined to construct the three - dimensional structure of the Ab paratope.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Gitirana da Rocha
- Laboratório de Biologia do Reconhecer (LBR), Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia (CBB), Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Alberto Lamego Avenue, 2000 - Campos dos Goytacazes, Postal Code 28013-602 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jorge Hernandez Fernandez
- Laboratório de Química e Função de Proteínas e Peptídeos (LQFPP), Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia (CBB), Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Alberto Lamego Avenue, 2000 - Campos dos Goytacazes, Postal Code 28013-602 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudia Maria Costa de Almeida
- Laboratório de Sanidade Animal (LSA), Centro de Ciências e Tecnologias Agropecuárias (CCTA), Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Alberto Lamego Avenue, 2000 - Campos dos Goytacazes, Postal Code 28013-602 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudia Letícia da Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia do Reconhecer (LBR), Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia (CBB), Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Alberto Lamego Avenue, 2000 - Campos dos Goytacazes, Postal Code 28013-602 Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fabio Carlos Magnoli
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Instituto Butantan, Vital Brazil Avenue, 1500 - City of São Paulo, Postal Code 05503-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Osmair Élder da Silva
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Instituto Butantan, Vital Brazil Avenue, 1500 - City of São Paulo, Postal Code 05503-900 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wilmar Dias da Silva
- Laboratório de Imunoquímica, Instituto Butantan, Vital Brazil Avenue, 1500 - City of São Paulo, Postal Code 05503-900 São Paulo, Brazil
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Expanding the neutralization scope of the EchiTAb-plus-ICP antivenom to include venoms of elapids from Southern Africa. Toxicon 2017; 125:59-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2016.11.259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Revised: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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