Contextual Constraints: Dynamic Evolution of Snake Venom Phospholipase A₂.

ABSTRACT: Venom is a dynamic trait that has contributed to the success of numerous organismal lineages. Predominantly composed of proteins, these complex cocktails are deployed for predation and/or self-defence. Many non-toxic physiological proteins have been convergently and recurrently recruited by venomous animals into their toxin arsenal. Phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) is one such protein and features in the venoms of many organisms across the animal kingdom, including snakes of the families Elapidae and Viperidae. Understanding the evolutionary history of this superfamily would therefore provide insight into the origin and diversification of venom toxins and the evolution of novelty more broadly. The literature is replete with studies that have identified diversifying selection a

SUBMITTER: Suranse V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9231074 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature