The Distributional Notes, Venom Characteristics and Antivenom Neutralization Potency on Recently Described of Bungarus Sindanus, From Southeastern Iran

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Articles

Authors

1 Department of venomous of animal, Razi Vaccines and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Iran.

2 Department of Venomous Animals and Toxins, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Ahvaz, Iran

Abstract

Abstract:

Background: Snakebite envenomation affects millions of people worldwide annually, resulting in significant mortality. Based on climatic and geographical conditions, Iran has a wide fauna and distribution of various snake species.

Objectives: Due to changing climatic conditions, the displacement of some snake species, and reports of snakebites with symptoms different from those known in Iran, research was conducted to identify this species in the southeastern region of the Sistan-Baluchestan Province.

Methods: New snake species were collected from these areas after morphological characterization and venom milking. SDS-PAGE profile, HPLC chromatography of venom, determination of toxicity, and cross-neutralization with the Razi Hexavalent snake antivenom were investigated.

Results: Based on morphological characteristics, the samples were identified as kraits of the Elapid Bungarus sindanus (Boulenger, 1897). The SDS-PAGE profiles of B. sindanus venom showed multiple bands at 30 kDa and 60–97 kDa. The median intravenous lethal dose (LD50) of B. sindanus was 0.2 µg/mice (0.01 µg/g), in vivo cross-neutralization tests did not show the appropriate effect of commercial antivenom on the clinical performance of the venom.

Conclusions: The present study is the first report of a new distribution, biting report, and toxicological and cross-neutralization of B. sindanus in southeast Iran, and addresses a critical public health concern by examining the emergence of previously unidentified snake species in Iran. The outcomes of this study may have significant implications for understanding the impact of climate change on snake distribution and venom composition, ultimately improving preparedness for snakebite treatment in affected areas.

Keywords

Iranian Journal of Veterinary Medicine

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 02 March 2025

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