Could a New Antivenom Change the Fight Against 17 African Snake Species?
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Synopsis
In a groundbreaking advancement, Danish researchers have developed a novel antivenom that effectively targets 17 African snake species. This innovation could dramatically alter how venomous snakebites are treated, potentially saving countless lives and minimizing long-term disabilities. The research highlights the importance of further studies before human trials can commence.
Key Takeaways
- New antivenom targets 17 African snake species.
- Utilizes phage display technology for production.
- Lower cost than existing treatments.
- Improves protection against tissue damage.
- Needs further studies before human testing.
New Delhi, Oct 31 (NationPress) Researchers from Denmark have achieved a significant breakthrough by creating an antivenom that demonstrates efficacy against 17 different African snake species, potentially transforming the approach to treating venomous snakebites.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), snakebites claim approximately 150,000 lives globally each year. Those who survive often endure severe disabilities, such as amputations and lasting tissue damage.
The existing antivenoms are unable to cover all critical snake species and frequently fail to neutralize all harmful toxins present in snake venoms.
This new broad-spectrum antivenom was formulated by researchers at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), utilizing a combination of eight carefully chosen nanobodies in a single cocktail.
Laboratory tests revealed that the antivenom was effective against a variety of 17 African snake species, including cobras and rinkhals. It also demonstrated improved protection against tissue damage and reduced the likelihood of immune reactions.
Notably, it can be manufactured at a lower price compared to current antivenoms, as detailed in a study published in the journal Nature.
“We have created an antivenom that doesn’t depend on the continuous extraction of antibodies from animals. Instead, we utilized phage display technology to engineer our antivenom,” stated Andreas Hougaard Laustsen-Kiel, who spearheaded the research at DTU.
“This technique allows us to select and replicate effective antibody fragments (nanobodies) and subsequently produce them on a large scale with consistent quality. This implies that we can generate the antivenom in substantial quantities without sacrificing quality,” he added.
While the antivenom shows great potential, it has not yet undergone human testing.
The research team indicated that the antivenom's efficacy diminishes when administered after venom exposure.
Additionally, venom from some species, like the black mamba and forest cobra, was only partially neutralized, emphasizing the significance of both venom composition and treatment timing. This indicates that the antivenom does not currently offer complete protection in all scenarios.
Highlighting the necessity for further research and clinical trials, Laustsen-Kiel asserted that the “antivenom holds the promise of fundamentally altering the treatment of snakebites globally.”
Point of View
I recognize the monumental impact this development could have on public health, especially in regions where snakebites are prevalent. The urgent need for effective treatments is undeniable, and this research represents a significant stride towards reducing fatalities and disabilities caused by snake venom.
NationPress
01/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new antivenom developed by Danish researchers?
The new antivenom is a broad-spectrum treatment effective against 17 African snake species, developed using phage display technology to select nanobodies.
How does this antivenom differ from existing treatments?
Unlike current antivenoms that often fail to neutralize all toxins, this new antivenom combines multiple nanobodies, providing wider coverage and potentially lowering production costs.
Has the antivenom been tested on humans?
No, the antivenom has not yet been tested on humans; further studies and clinical trials are necessary.
What are the potential limitations of the new antivenom?
The antivenom's effectiveness diminishes if administered after venom exposure, and it provides only partial neutralization for some snake species.
What are the next steps for this research?
Researchers stress the importance of further studies and clinical trials to fully evaluate the antivenom's efficacy and safety in humans.
