Scientists from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, have developed detailed “venom maps” for Russell’s viper, one of the most dangerous and widespread venomous snakes in India. These maps, based on regional climate data, could help medical professionals better predict the nature of snakebites and select more effective treatments.
The research, published in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, highlights how local environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall influence the composition and toxicity of the snake’s venom.
Kartik Sunagar, a researcher from IISc’s Centre for Ecological Sciences, stated, “Russell’s viper is perhaps the most medically significant snake globally. It causes more deaths and serious injuries than any other species. That’s why understanding what drives its venom variability is crucial.”
The venom’s potency depends heavily on enzyme concentrations, which are influenced not only by what the snake eats but also by the climate. Sunagar noted that earlier studies from their lab had shown how changes in diet affect venom. However, this is the first time that abiotic factors, such as weather patterns, have been shown to play a major role in venom characteristics.
To conduct the study, the team collected venom samples from 115 snakes across 34 locations in India. They tested the venom’s enzymatic activity—particularly how it breaks down proteins, phospholipids, and amino acids—and cross-referenced this with long-term climate data from those regions.
They found that venom composition varies with climate, with higher protein-breaking (protease) activity in vipers from drier areas. Temperature and rainfall patterns were found to significantly influence venom activity.
By combining these findings, the researchers developed predictive maps showing the likely venom types found in different regions of India. These “venom maps” can be used to anticipate the symptoms of bites in specific areas, which could lead to region-specific treatments, such as customized toxin-targeting antibodies.
The study offers a significant step forward in addressing snakebite treatment, potentially saving lives by enabling more accurate and localized medical responses.
