Investigating synergistic effects of Russell's viper venom toxins

This study demonstrates that the toxins in Russell’s viper venom do not act independently, but instead interact synergistically.

We show that this synergy amplifies pathological outcomes (e.g., coagulopathy, hemorrhage, tissue damage), which helps explain the severe clinical manifestations of envenomation even when individual toxin concentrations are relatively low.

We propose that effective therapeutic strategies and antivenom development must consider multi-toxin interactions rather than targeting single venom components in isolation.

In the Evolutionary Venomics Lab at the Centre for Ecological Sciences (CES), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, we study venomous animals and their venoms as model systems to explore fundamental questions in evolutionary biology and genetics. Utilising advanced technologies across multiple disciplines, we delve into the fascinating evolutionary histories of venomous animals and their venoms. Beyond studying venoms, we focus on developing novel solutions for snakebite, which affects hundreds of thousands of victims globally. Our goal is to develop an advanced antivenom that enhances the safety, specificity, and affordability of treatment.

Our core research themes include...