Oxidative-Stress and Hematological Alterations Induced by the Egyptian Spitting Cobra (Naja nubiae) Venom in Rats

Abstract

Snake venoms have been the subject of intense studies to understand the mechanisms involved in toxicity. Limited information is available regarding the Egyptian Spitting Cobra's oxidative stress and hematological profile (Naja nubiae). Therefore, the present study aimed to (i) evaluate the oxidative stress produced by the venom of N. nubiae and (ii) determine its hematotoxic effects in rats. The adult male Albino rats were subcutaneously (SC) injected with a physiological saline solution in the control group. The SC injection of snake venom in groups 2 and 3 was 1/4 and 1/2 of the LD50. The oxidative stress biomarkers levels, including lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein carbonyl content (PCC), and nitric oxide (NO) were estimated. Antioxidants agents comprising glutathione (GSH) level, activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT) were evaluated. The results showed that the effects of snake venom on blood cells are dose-dependent. The venom significantly altered the hematological profile when compared to the control group. In contrast to the control group, the venom induced a substantial elevation in LPO, NO, and PCC levels, indicating a disturbance in redox equilibrium. Also, there were significant reductions in the GSH level as well as SOD and CAT activities in all treated groups. Therefore, the cytotoxicity's ability to induce oxidative stress may be linked to its reduction of antioxidant systems, leading to redox disturbance and hematological alteration.

Keywords: Naja nubiae, Snake venom, Oxidative stress biomarkers, Antioxidant, hematological parameters, Egypt,