Hypertensive and hypotensive snake venom components

Abstract

Most snake venoms of Viperidae induce a fall in blood pressure following envenomation. However the mechanism(s) involved in the hypotensive effects of the venoms are largely unknown. VEGF-like peptides, which affect vascular permeability, have been described in Viperidae as well as in Elapidae venoms. The following chapter reviews some of the cardiovascular toxins that have been isolated and characterized in snake venoms. This includes the sarafotoxins, which are the most potent hypertensive peptides, as well as groups of hypotensive peptides like the natriuretic peptides and calcium channel blockers. The extensive research that has been carried out is now providing us with some new options to treat diseases.