We have isolated several new toxins which do not belong to any of the known families of snake venom toxins. Currently, we are examining their structure and biological properties.

• Helveprins : We have purified 15 members of this family from several snake venoms. This group of proteins appears to be found in the venoms of all families of snakes. They are structurally homologous to helothermine, a toxin isolated from Mexican lizard venom and hence the name.

• Waprins : We have recently identified three novel proteins of this family. One of the member, Omwaprin exhibited antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria. They are homologous to whey acidic proteins and secretory leukocyte proteinase inhibitors. We will examine their structure and function.

• Vespryns : We have completed the amino acid sequence a toxin, ohanin from King cobra venom. This is similar to a thaicobrin from Thai cobra. This protein has a potent hypolocomotory activity. We have completed its cDNA and gene structure. We are currently studying its structure-function relationships and mechanism of action.

Key Publications