Abstract

EFFECT OF TURMERIC (CURCUMA LONGA) PROTEINS AGAINST RUSSEL VIPER PHOSPHOLIPASE A2

Dinesha Ramadas*, Shwetha H. N., Pandareesh M. D., Sonu M., Viritha S., Sujan Surya D. and Vedamurthy Joshi

Abstract

Specific plants have demonstrated efficacy in experimental studies. Andrographis paniculata inhibits phospholipase A2 activity, reducing inflammation. Azadirachta indica (Neem) neutralizes proteolytic and hemolytic effects, while Curcuma longa (Turmeric) and its active compound, curcumin, exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and enzyme-inhibiting properties. Additionally, curcumin has been reported to promote cellular repair and reduce venom-induced cytotoxicity. This study investigates the ability of crude turmeric protein (5 to 35ug) to inhibit or neutralize the venom of Daboia russelii (Russell's viper), a highly venomous snake in Asia, which contains destructive enzymes such as phospholipases and hyaluronidases. Exploring plant-based solutions like turmeric offers a potential adjunct or alternative to conventional antivenoms, addressing the need for effective and accessible treatments for snakebite envenomation.

Keywords: Phospholipase A2; Turmeric; Proteins; Russell viper.