Asian Cobras: Venom Evolution, Composition, Pharmacology and Treatment

This book comprehensively explores Asian Cobras, covering their evolutionary history, geographic distribution, venom characteristics, pathophysiology of envenomation, and treatment strategies. The introductory chapters focus on venomous snakes, placing particular emphasis on cobras and the substantial impact of snake envenomation in Asia, where it is recognized as a neglected tropical disease. The venom delivery system, including glands, dentition, and fangs, is explored in detail. The book also explores their appearance, behavior, habitat, feeding, and mating habits, along with their geographic distribution across Asia. Further, the chapters examine the venom composition of different cobra species, highlighting the variations within and between species as well as across geographic regions, supported by advanced biochemical and proteomic analyses. The medical consequences of cobra envenomation are examined, focusing on clinical manifestations such as neurotoxicity, cytotoxicity, and other serious complications, while emphasizing the role of venom variability in determining the severity of envenomation. Key Features: Offers an in-depth overview of the evolution, taxonomy, and ecology of Asiatic cobras Explores the variability in cobra venom composition across different species and geographic regions, supported by cutting-edge biochemical, proteomic, and transcriptomic research Highlights the clinical manifestations of cobra envenomation, including neurotoxicity and cytotoxicity, and emphasizes the pathophysiological differences among cobra species Reviews the latest approaches in treating cobra envenomation, including the use of antivenoms and drug therapies Stresses the importance of public education, government initiatives, and NGOs in addressing cobra envenomation as a neglected tropical disease This book is a valuable source for researchers of toxinology, biochemistry, biotechnology, and biomedical sciences.