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Updated: Feb 10, 2026
11:10
Expression, Purification, and Antimicrobial Activity of S100A12
Published on: May 13, 2017
8.8K
Analysis of snake venom composition and antimicrobial activity
Robert A Charvat1, Raeshelle M Strobel1, Megan A Pasternak1
1Department of Biology, University of Findlay, Findlay, OH 45840, USA.
Summary
Snake venoms show potent antimicrobial properties against diverse microbes. Research into the less toxic Colubridae family may yield novel antibiotics with reduced human toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Toxicology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The rise of antibiotic resistance necessitates novel antimicrobial sources.
- Snake venoms, particularly components like Phospholipase A2s and l-amino acid oxidases, exhibit antimicrobial activity.
- Existing research heavily favors Elapidae and Viperidae species, neglecting the diverse Colubridae family.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate antimicrobial properties of snake venoms against diverse microbial classes.
- To explore similarities in venom composition across snake families.
- To assess the potential of the Colubridae family as a source for novel antimicrobial agents.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of snake venom antimicrobial efficacy.
- Comparative analysis of venom composition.
- Evaluation of antimicrobial activity against various microbial classes.
Main Results:
- Snake venoms and their components possess significant antimicrobial capabilities.
- Efficacy varies across different microbial classes.
- The Colubridae family shows promise for discovering novel antimicrobial agents.
Conclusions:
- Snake venoms are a valuable source of antimicrobial compounds.
- Further research into the Colubridae family is warranted for developing safer antimicrobial drugs.
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