Development of an analytical model for assessing the adsorptive properties of traditional medicinal formulations from Burkina Faso in relation to snake venom proteins

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Résumé

Introduction: The traditional treatment of snakebite envenomations across most regions of Burkina Faso relies on
the use of formulations derived from the calcination of plants or specific plant parts. These preparations are
subsequently administered either orally and/or applied topically to incisions made at the envenomation site.
Objective: Given the use of carbonised plants, this study was initiated to develop an analytical model for evaluating
the adsorptive properties of these remedies in relation to the proteins found in snake venom.
Method: Traditional snakebite treatments were collected from three regions of the country and transported to the
laboratory for analysis. The initial step involved characterising the physical and chemical properties of the
remedies, such as granulometry and pH. Subsequent tests assessed the ability of the remedies to adsorb toxic
venom proteins, using liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). For
those remedies exhibiting significant adsorption potential, the adsorbed venom proteins were identified using
proteomics analysis.
Results: the results demonstrated that the recipe from Kampti, as well as activated charcoal (used as a reference
adsorbent), exhibited noteworthy adsorption capacities. Both products showed a statistically significant reduction
in the total quantity of venom adsorbed proteins. Kampti’s recipe was particularly effective in adsorbing
phospholipase A3, short neurotoxins 1 and snake venom metalloprotease.
Conclusion: This study bridges traditional ethnopharmacology with modern analytical chemistry, offering a
promising framework for developing accessible and cost-effective adjunct therapies for snakebite envenomation
in resource-limited settings.

Mots-clés

Venom, Proteomics, Adsorption Traditional medicine, Burkina Faso