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Predicting antibacterial activity from snake venom proteomes
Justin L Rheubert1, Michael F Meyer2, Raeshelle M Strobel1
1Department of Biology, University of Findlay, Findlay, Ohio, United States of America.
Plos One
|January 25, 2020
Summary
Snake venom shows promise as a source for new antibiotics due to its potent antibacterial properties. Researchers developed predictive models linking venom composition to efficacy against various bacteria, identifying key protein families and promising snake species for drug discovery.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Antibiotic resistance necessitates novel drug discovery from non-traditional sources.
- Snake venom exhibits significant, yet largely uncharacterized, antibacterial potential.
- Existing research provides data on venom composition and antibacterial activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To model the relationship between snake venom proteomes and antibacterial efficacy.
- To predict the efficacy of venom from untested snake species.
- To identify key venom protein families and snake taxa with high antibacterial potential.
Main Methods:
- Utilized literature-reported data on snake venom composition and antibacterial efficacy.
- Developed predictive models incorporating venom protein families, snake taxonomy, and bacterial characteristics (Gram stain, morphology, respiration).
- Applied models to predict efficacy for snake species with known venom proteomes but untested antibacterial activity.
Main Results:
- Identified specific venom protein families that accurately predict antibacterial efficacy.
- Highlighted promising snake species with significant antibacterial venom properties.
- Demonstrated the utility of predictive modeling for guiding future research.
Conclusions:
- Snake venom represents a valuable resource for novel antibiotic development.
- Predictive models can accelerate the discovery of effective antibacterial agents from venom.
- This study provides a foundation for targeted research into snake venom's therapeutic potential.
