General Info on Snake Venom.
Venom variation is largely attributed to differences in toxin-encoding genes present in the genome or venom gland of snakes.
Here, we demonstrate that mechanisms affecting the transcription,
translation, and posttranslational modification of toxins also
significantly contribute to the diversity of venom protein composition.
There are three main types of snake venom that affect the body differently which are neurotoxic, hemotoxic, and cytotoxic venom. Each venom type targets a specific part or system of the body. All types have the potential to be deadly and/or cause severe damage.
In addition to specialized effects, all venom is thought to have proteolytic effects which essentially cause the initial damage to the immediate bite or injection site of the venom by breaking down the tissue at the bite site.
Some sources claim proteolytic venom as a fourth category of
venom, however because all venom has proteolytic effects, it is not
entirely correct to place it in its own category.
1. Neurotoxic Venom Effects: Paralysis, convulsions or rapid muscle twitching, difficulty breathing and other respiratory issues
2. Cytotoxic venom
Effects: Severe pain, swelling of area surrounding bite, necrosis (death of tissue)
3. Hemotoxic Venom
Effects: Swelling, internal bleeding, hemorrhaging, necrosis
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Dr Andrew Kaufman writes:
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