- Chuck Smith
- 2 days ago
- 1 min read
Extracellular vesicles: unlocking the secrets of snake venom biology
Sanchez, Elda E.
Suntravat, Montamas
National Natural Toxins Research Center
Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Kingsville, Texas USA
Department of Chemistry
Texas A&M University-Kingsville
MSC 161
Kingsville, Texas USA
Salazar, Emelyn
National Natural Toxins Research Center
Texas A&M University-Kingsville
Kingsville, Texas USA
Department of Biological and Health Sciences
Texas A&M University-Kingsville
MSC 161
Kingsville, Texas USA
Snake venom is a complex biochemical arsenal evolved for predation and defense, comprising a diverse array of proteins, peptides, and enzymes. Recent advances have revealed that extracellular vesicles (EVs)—nano-sized membranous structures secreted by cells—may play a pivotal role in modulating venom composition, function, and delivery. This emerging field of venom research suggests that EVs could act as carriers for venom molecules, facilitating intercellular communication within venom glands and potentially enhancing toxin stability and bioactivity upon envenomation. By profiling EVs derived from venom glands and whole venom, researchers are uncovering novel regulatory mechanisms and identifying previously uncharacterized bioactive molecules. Understanding the molecular composition and function of EVs in snake venom not only sheds light on the evolutionary innovation of venom systems but also opens potential translational avenues in antivenom development and therapeutic bioengineering.