Work

Reference Plasma Proteome Map of Crotalus durissus terrificus

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Snakebite envenoming remains a major public health concern worldwide, while the maintenance of captive snakes is essential for conservation, venom production, and biomedical research. However, little is known about the plasma proteome of snakes, a gap that limits physiological assessments and the development of species-specific reference protein profile. This study aimed to characterize the plasma proteome of healthy adult Crotalus durissus terrificus snakes to establish a molecular baseline that supports biological evaluation and future diagnostic research. Blood samples were collected from 19 specimens kept in capitivity, followed by hematological, biochemical, and proteomic analyses. Hematology confirmed preserved cell morphology and values within established reptilian reference ranges, indicating good health status. Biochemical analyses showed albumin, total protein, and aspartate aminotransferase levels consistent with previous reports, while uric acid values were comparatively lower, reflecting reptilian renal physiology. Proteomic profiling using 2D electrophoresis and LC-MS/MS identified 301 protein spots, of which 273 were successfully annotated, covering approximately 90% of the detectable plasma proteome. Functional classification revealed proteins associated with immune function, transport, metabolism, and anti-hemorrhagic activity. The plasma proteomic baseline generated here contributes to the understanding of snake systemic physiology and provides foundational data to support future diagnostic, veterinary and biotechnological investigations, with direct benefits for animal welfare, biosafety, and reproducibility in venom-based biotechnological applications.

Source: Analytical Biochemistry

DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2026.116051