Professional paper

Intraspecific variability in the composition of snake venom

Mirela Pavić Vulinović ; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Josip Miljković ; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia *
Ana Shek Vugrovečki orcid.org/0000-0002-8261-5310 ; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Ivona Žura Žaja ; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia

* Corresponding author.

Abstract

Research on the intraspecific variability of snake venom reveals a complex interaction between genetic, ontogenetic and environmental factors that together shape the chemical composition and functional characteristics of the venom. This variability, which influences various biological properties of the venom, has significant ecological and evolutionary implications, as it can affect the snake’s hunting strategies, defense against predators, and survival in different ecosystems. Given these complex interactions, differences in venom composition also play a crucial role in medical applications, particularly in the development of effective anti-venoms. Numerous studies have documented intraspecific differences in the chemical composition of snake venom, highlighting the need for comprehensive analyses that include a large number of samples
from different populations. Additionally, factors such as gender, age and geographical distribution must be considered in order to account for all relevant variables that may influence venom variability, thereby
achieving greater precision in understanding these variations, which is crucial for improving strategies in the treatment of snake bites.

Keywords

intraspecific variability; snake venom; chemical composition

Hrčak ID:

329728

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/329728

Publication date:

1.4.2025.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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