AN OVERVIEW ON NUCLEASE ENZYMES (DNase, RNase, AND PHOSPHODIESTERASE) IN SNAKE VENOMS
Data on the pharmacological properties of enzymes involved in formation of endogenous purines (DNase, RNase, and phosphodiesterase) are reviewed. Results of studies of toxic effects caused by snake venom nucleases are summarized, and directions of future studies in this field are suggested. One of the problems facing toxicology is the identification and characterization of nucleases specific for a particular type of venom since these enzymes have similar substrate specificities and biochemical properties. Attempts are made to reveal differences between individual nucleases and to find correlations between the presence of nucleases and endogenous release of purines during intoxication with snake venom, and possible effects of purines are discussed. The authors hope to stimulate toxicologists to study biological properties of nucleases and their role in intoxication with snake venom.