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

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.