Researchers studied why woodrats survive rattlesnake bites that would harm larger animals. The study examined a family of genes called SERPINs and focused on a less-known gene named SERPINA3.
Scientists found that woodrats have extra copies of SERPINA3. These extra copies appear after a process called tandem duplication, when a new gene copy is added to the genome. The team tested the proteins made by these genes with venom samples from the rattlesnakes that hunt the rodents. Many of the proteins bound to venom and blocked its toxic effects, while others did not interact and may have different roles.
The authors say these gene copies could help woodrats survive and may be part of a response as prey and venom evolve. The study had external support from research funders.
Difficult words
- researcher — person who studies science and collects dataResearchers
- gene — a unit of heredity in an organism's DNAgenes
- tandem duplication — process where a new copy of a gene appears
- protein — molecule in cells that performs biological functionsproteins
- venom — poison produced by animals like snakes
- bind — to join or stick to another molecule or partbound
- toxic — able to cause harm or illness to organisms
- prey — an animal that is hunted and eaten by others
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How could extra copies of a gene help an animal survive a snake bite?
- Do you think other animals might have similar protections? Why or why not?
- Have you ever seen a snake or heard about venom? How did that make you feel?
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