Harnessing the Power of Venomous Animal-Derived Toxins against COVID-19.

Animal-derived venoms are complex mixtures of toxins triggering important biological effects during envenomings. Although venom-derived toxins are known for their potential of causing harm to victims, toxins can also act as pharmacological agents. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was observed an increase in in-depth studies on antiviral agents, and since, to date, there has been no completely effective drug against the global disease.

State-of-the-art review of snake venom phosphodiesterases (svPDEs).

Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) constitute an enzyme group able to hydrolyze nucleic acids as well as some second messengers. Due to this ability and their expression in several human tissues and organs, PDEs can control a gamut of physiological processes. They are also involved in some pathological conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease and erectile dysfunction.

Anti-vaccination movements in the world and in Brazil.

Over the years, vaccinations have provided significant advances in public health, because they substantially reduce the morbimortality of vaccine-preventable diseases. Nevertheless, many people are still hesitant to be vaccinated. Brazil is a region of many anti-vaccine movements, and several outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases, such as yellow fever and measles, have occurred in the country during the last few years.

Snake venom vascular endothelial growth factors (svVEGFs): Unravelling their molecular structure, functions, and research potential.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key regulator of angiogenesis, a physiological process characterized by the formation of new vessels from a preexisting endothelium. VEGF has also been implicated in pathologic states, such as neoplasias, intraocular neovascular disorders, among other conditions. VEGFs are distributed in seven different families: VEGF-A, B, C, D, and PIGF (placental growth factor), which are identified in mammals; VEGF-E, which are encountered in viruses; and VEGF-F or svVEGF (snake venom VEGF) described in snake venoms.