Venomous snakes: a problem or an alternative in biotechnology?

Abstract

Snakes, despite playing a crucial role in ecosystems, have historically been classified as dangerous animals due to misinformation and unfounded beliefs. Snakebite, considered a public health problem, is estimated at around 5,400,000 cases annually, with consequences ranging from loss of functionality to death. Nevertheless, snake venoms, rich in proteins and peptides with biological activities, have captured scientific attention, driving research to understand their functioning and explore their therapeutic potential. These components demonstrate significant potential in treating various human diseases. The abstract emphasizes the need to increase environmental education programs to counter misinformation, highlight the ecological and biotechnological importance of snakes, and contribute to their conservation in natural habitats.

Despite the problem that this represents, snake venoms are rich in proteins and peptides with biological activities that have drawn the attention of scientists around the world, resulting in a growing number of investigations to know how they work and if it is possible to use them as therapeutic agents. The isolated components of venoms have shown enormous potential for the treatment of different human illnesses and diseases, which is why it is important to increase environmental education programs to end misinformation and help in the conservation of these animals.