Proteolytic, hemorrhagic, and neurotoxic activities caused by Leptodeira annulata ashmeadii (Serpentes: Colubridae) Duvernoy's gland secretion

Abstract

Objective.-The main goal was to explore the different toxin properties (proteolytic, hemorrhagic, and neurotoxic) of Leptodeira annulata ashmeadii Duvernoy's gland secretion (DGS). Methods.-To separate and characterize the different proteins present in L annulata ashmeadii DGS, 20% sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) was run. To partially purify the proteolytic activity, Mono Q2 column ion-exchange chromatography was used. Hemorrhagic activity was analyzed in chicken embryos and mice (skin and peritoneum). Neurotoxic disorders were analyzed in mice inoculated with L annulata ashmeadii DGS. Results.-The approximate relative mass of 21 protein bands was determined using the Multi-Analyst PC version 1.1 (Bio-Rad) program. L annulata ashmeadii DGS proved to have proteolytic, hemorrhagic, and neurotoxic activities. Conclusions.-Given the properties of the secretions of its Duvernoy's gland, L annulata ashmeadii should be added to the list of venomous colubrids.