Size matters: an evaluation on the molecular basis of ontogenetic modifications in the composition of <em>Bothrops jararacussu</em> snake venom

Abstract

We present here a comprehensive study on Bothrops jararacussu snake venom composition based on data obtained from 19 individuals of different sex, size, reproductive status, or geographical location. We carried out the first next-generation sequencing transcriptome (NGS) of venom glands from six individuals, which allowed a label-free characterization and quantification of venom toxins at the isoform level and evidencing the great diversity of PIII-class SVMPs in this venom. Venom variability was modulated mostly at transcriptional levels of a limited number of paralogues. As result, coagulant and hemorrhagic venoms from small snakes might be related to predatory function, while the venom from large snakes seems more related to immobilizing by high tissue-damaging myotoxic activity.