Unveiling the inflammatory response in macrophages induced by Micrurus lemniscatus venom

The coral snakes (Micrurus, Elapidae) are an important etiologic agent of snakebites in Brazil. While envenomation is usually associated with neurotoxic effects, numerous experimental studies have shown that Micrurus venom can also cause inflammation. These inflammatory effects may play a role in the severity of envenomation and the patient's overall prognosis. To deepen the study of the inflammatory profile of coral snake Micrurus lemniscatus venom (ML venom), we investigated its effect on thioglycolate (TG)-elicited macrophage functions. At non-cytotoxic concentrations, as verified by MTT assay, ML venom enhances phagocytosis of opsonized zymosan particles, stimulates the production of H₂O₂ and nitric oxide, and promotes lipid droplet formation in these cells. However, ML venom did not trigger the release of IL-1β and PGD₂ from TG-elicited macrophages. These findings enhance our understanding of Micrurus lemniscatus venom's mechanism of action, particularly its inflammatory effects, thereby aiding in the treatment of Micrurus envenomation.