Given the extraordinary complexity of snake venom composition, the research employs cutting-edge analytical chemistry techniques to systematically characterise venom components at both chemical and functional levels.
From snake venom to potential therapies
Essentialy the research falls under the category of toxicovenomics, which focuses on the analysis of snake venom toxins in terms of their biological activities and chemical properties. From the early age cytotoxicity study, researchers can pinpoint the main related cytotoxins and then find the inhibitors to neutralize them in snakebite treatment.
Xu found the most relevant toxins that contribute to cytotoxicity, the degree to which a substance can damage or kill cells, and analysed the mechanism of cytoxins in multiple mammalian cell lines. The researcher found the selective cytotoxicity of elapid venom toxins, which means those toxins might be further developed into drug candidates.
Blueprints for new medicines
In addition, the profound analysis of toxins might provide some ideas or models for drug candidates development, e.g., hypertension or heart failure (Captopril®), antiplatelet therapy, or type 2 diabetes. Toxins are valuable pharmacological tools that can interact with cells. For example, modified 3FTx venom toxins have been used to study the structure and function of nAChRs. They also have therapeutic potential. The first commercial venom-derived drug, Captopril®, was developed for hypertension.
Other venom components, such as PLA2s and LAAOs, show antibacterial activity, while chlorotoxin has been tested as a tumor-targeting agent. Conotoxins have even been developed into painkillers. Venom toxins also play a role in diagnostics. For instance, RVV-V can be used to assess factor V function in hemostatic disorders, both in research and clinical settings.
Xu defends his PhD research on September 12.