Gdimerin

Gdimerin is a small, water-soluble protein found in the venom of the snake Bothrops jararaca. It is a member of the C-type lectin family of proteins, which are characterized by their ability to bind to carbohydrates. Gdimerin is composed of two identical subunits, each with a molecular weight of approximately 14 kDa. The protein is known for its potent anticoagulant activity, which is due to its ability to inhibit thrombin, a key enzyme in the blood clotting cascade. Gdimerin also has hemolytic activity, causing the lysis of red blood cells. The protein is a homodimer, with each subunit containing a carbohydrate recognition domain (CRD) that binds to specific carbohydrates on the surface of cells. Gdimerin has been studied for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of thrombosis and other blood-related disorders. However, its use is limited by its toxicity and the difficulty in producing large quantities of the protein.