Snakebite envenomation remains a major yet neglected public health challenge, particularly in Northeast India where several medically important snake species are insufficiently characterized and therapeutic options remain limited. This thesis provides a comprehensive investigation into the biochemical properties of venoms from selected viperid and elapid species, alongside the evaluation of novel therapeutic strategies to counter venom-induced toxicity.

The first chapter presents a comparative biochemical and functional characterization of
venoms from Trimeresurus erythrurus, Ovophis monticola, Trimeresurus popeiorum, Naja kaouthia, and Ophiophagus hannah, revealing significant interspecific variation in enzymatic composition and hemostatic effects. These findings underscore the clinical relevance of region-specific venom profiling for improving treatment outcomes. Subsequent chapters explore alternative therapeutic approaches targeting venom toxicity.

The second chapter evaluates small molecule inhibitors (SMIs), including varespladib and marimastat, demonstrating their strong inhibitory effects on key venom enzymes and their ability to mitigate coagulopathy and cytotoxicity in vitro.

The third chapter investigates naturally derived phytocompounds, caffeic acid and ferulic acid, highlighting their potential as adjunct therapeutics, with notable inhibitory and cytoprotective effects against venom activity.

The final chapter focuses on venom-induced nephrotoxicity, a critical complication of viper envenomation, and assesses the protective role of SMIs in preserving renal tissue architecture and reducing histopathological damage.

Overall, this work integrates venom characterization with therapeutic evaluation, providing important insights into the mechanistic basis of venom toxicity and identifying promising candidates for adjunct or alternative snakebite treatments. These findings contribute to the advancement of more effective and region-specific strategies for snakebite management.