Peçonhas de serpentes como fontes de novos antibacterianos

Abstract

Introduction: Bacteria are the largest group of pathogenic microorganisms, and infections caused by them are among the leading causes of death. Antibiotics are essential tools and a cornerstone of modern health care, but, microbial resistance to various drugs is a global concern, resulting in high morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.Objectives: To investigate, through a literature review, the potential antimicrobial activity of snake venoms.Methods: Scientific articles in Portuguese and English were searched in databases such as PubMed and SciELO, published in the last fifteen years. The keywords used were: "antimicrobials," "venoms," "snakes," and "antimicrobial," "snake," and "venom."Results: Snake venoms have been extensively studied for their antimicrobial potential. Studies have reported promising results, suggesting a rational path for the development of new antibiotics effective against resistant microorganisms.Conclusion: Despite the limitations, the components found in snake venoms present antibacterial potential that can be explored in the development of alternative therapies.