ABSTRACT
Efcient diffusion of systemic toxins into circulation from the bite site results in successful envenomation, and fragmentation of megadalton hyaluronan in the extracellular matrix by snake venom hyaluronidase is a key factor in this diffusion process. Recent studies have demonstrated that hyaluronidase not only augments the lethal potency of the venom, but also damages the bite site, resulting in severe morbidity. Despite its critical role in lethal toxicity, the enzyme has been less extensively studied in snake venoms than many other proteins. In this chapter, an effort has been made to provide a consolidated overview of the developments in the recent past and the future challenges required to understand the role of this glycosidase in snake venom pathophysiology. Furthermore, the benecial effects of inhibition of this enzyme are highlighted, underscoring its signicance as a therapeutic target in the more efcient and efcacious management of snakebite.
