Jararaca GPIb-binding protein from Bothrops jararaca snake venom induces intense thrombocytopenia in mice

Snakes of the genus Bothrops are responsible for most snakebites in Latin America, frequently associated with hemostatic disorders. Among venom components, C-type lectin-like proteins (CTLPs) stand out for their ability to interact with platelet receptors. In this study, jararaca GPIb-BP, a CTLP from Bothrops jararaca venom was purified and further characterized. In vivo assays demonstrated that the protein induced significant and dose-dependent thrombocytopenia in mice, with the most pronounced effect at 167.35 μg/kg (s.c.), which caused partial recovery of platelet counts at 24 h and complete recovery at 48 h. The decrease in platelet counts occurred independently of the activation of the coagulation cascade, with no significant alterations in plasma fibrinogen levels, and aPTT clotting times. Furthermore, inhibition of the MAC-1 receptor mildly attenuated the jararaca GPIb-BP-induced thrombocytopenia, demonstrating this receptor is not the main mechanism whereby platelets are scavenged or cleared from circulation. These findings confirm that jararaca GPIb-BP is able to trigger fast and intense thrombocytopenia, providing new insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying Bothrops jararaca envenomation.