Bothrops erythromelas venom and its action on isolated murine macrophages.

Snakebite is a universally neglected public health problem. It victimizes approximately 2.5 million people annually and kills around 125 thousand. In Brazil, the Bothrops genus is responsible for 87% of the envenoming. The species Bothrops erythromelas is endemic in the northeast region. Its venom induces local haemorrhage, coagulopathy, oedema, and necrosis and can lead to permanent disability or death. The in vitro effects of Bothrops erythromelas venom (BeV) on thioglycollate-elicited macrophages were investigated in this study. At non-cytotoxic concentrations, BeV did not interfere with the adhesion and detachment of thioglycollate-elicited macrophages. However, BeV induced lipid body formation and the activation of respiratory burst and TNF-α, but not IL-1ß and IL-6. The study aimed to extend the knowledge on the mechanism of action of BeV and its contribution toward a better characterisation of macrophage functionality under the action of Bothrops venom.

Clinical and immunological aspects of envenomations by Bothrops snakes: [review]

Accidents caused by snakes, especially in tropical and subtropical countries, still constitute a serious public health problem due to the lack of knowledge of health professionals and the precariousness of health systems in the regions where most accidents occur. Snake venoms contain a range of molecules that may provoke local swelling, pain, renal and respiratory insufficiencies. The study of the effects of each molecule on humans can help the development of complementary therapy. Similarly, the knowledge of clinical aspects of envenomations provides a better identification and implementation of appropriate treatment. In addition, to understand Bothrops envenomations and improve the therapeutic strategy, it is necessary to understand and study the role of important inflammatory mediators, particularly nitric oxide (NO), cytokines and the complement system.