The instant death symphony is likely to be orchestrated by creatine kinase of the Mid-Asian Viperidae venom

Background – The aim of present study was to investigate a possible link between the creatine kinase (CK) content in the V. xanthia raddei venom and its acute toxicity values. Methods – Creatine kinase, the ATP-generating enzyme belonging to a phosphotransferases family, has been completely purified from the venom of Vipera xanthia raddei using a novel method of affinity chromatography on ADP-Sepharose. Results – This enzyme is proven to be a compound for determining an acute toxicity degree provided by the intramuscular (IM) venom injection to mice. Not being a toxic agent itself, this 40 kDa monomer protein, however, increases the toxicity level when added to a natural total or creatine kinase-depleted venom composition. Conclusion – A possible significance of the data presented for research on a snake bite-promoted coagulopathies is under discussion.