Effects of Bothrops asper Snake Venom on Lymphatic Vessels: Insights into a Hidden Aspect of Envenomation
2008
Effects of Bothrops asper Snake Venom on Lymphatic Vessels
Sample size: 10
publication
10 minutes
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): Mora Javier, Mora Rodrigo, Lomonte Bruno, Gutiérrez José María
Primary Institution: Universidad de Costa Rica
Hypothesis
The study investigates how B. asper venom affects collecting lymphatic vessels and lymph flow.
Conclusion
B. asper venom causes contraction and damage to lymphatic vessels, contributing to local edema in snakebite envenomation.
Supporting Evidence
- B. asper venom induced a dose-dependent contraction of collecting lymphatic vessels.
- The venom halted lymph flow within minutes of application.
- Myotoxin II, a component of the venom, reproduced the effects on lymphatics.
- Fucoidan, a myotoxin inhibitor, abolished the venom's effect on lymphatics.
Takeaway
The venom from a snake called Bothrops asper can hurt the tiny tubes in our body that help drain extra fluid, which can make swelling worse.
Methodology
The study used intravital microscopy to observe the effects of B. asper venom on mouse mesentery collecting lymphatic vessels.
Participant Demographics
CD-1 mice, 18-20 g
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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