Daboialectin, a C-type lectin from Russell's viper venom induces cytoskeletal damage and apoptosis in human lung cancer cells in vitro.

'Daboialectin', a low molecular weight C-type lectin (18.5 kDa) isolated from Russell's viper venom showed cytotoxic effects on human broncho-alveolar carcinoma derived (A549) cell lines. Daboialectin induced inhibition of A549 cell growth was time and concentration dependent with severe morphological changes by altering the functions of small GTPases such as Rac, Rho and cdc42.

Russell's viper venom affects regulation of small GTPases and causes nuclear damage.

Russell's viper with its five sub-species is found throughout the Indian subcontinent. Its venom is primarily hemotoxic. However, its envenomation causes damage to several physiological systems.