New Antivenom Found in Rattlesnake Blood Could Save Lives

Topic: Health

Scientists at the University of Maryland have discovered a powerful new antivenom hidden in rattlesnake blood. They found that combining specific proteins from rattlesnake blood can block venom from several snake species, making it more effective than current treatments.

Researchers at the University of Maryland have made a groundbreaking discovery that could save thousands of lives each year. They found that by using toxin-blocking proteins from western diamondback rattlesnakes, they can create an antivenom that is up to 10 times more potent than the current sheep-derived treatment.

The team, led by Distinguished University Professor Sean B. Carroll, used a combination of FETUA proteins to block the harmful effects of venom. They found that individual proteins could counter certain effects of venom, but combining several proteins made it much more effective. For example, one protein might reduce bleeding, while another could interfere with enzyme activity.

The researchers tested various mixtures and found that optimized combinations of FETUA proteins were highly effective in blocking the lethal action of viper venoms. They also discovered that these proteins are well conserved among viper subfamilies, meaning they can be used to treat bites from different snake species.

This breakthrough could help address the global challenge of snakebites, which kill an estimated 80,000 to 140,000 people annually and leave hundreds of thousands with permanent disabilities. The researchers hope that their discovery will lead to more effective treatments for deadly snakebites.

Why It Matters

Snakebites are a major health threat in many parts of the world, especially in rural areas where access to medical care is limited. This new antivenom could save thousands of lives and improve treatment options for those affected by snakebites.

Key Facts

• Researchers at the University of Maryland discovered a powerful new antivenom hidden in rattlesnake blood.
• The antivenom uses toxin-blocking proteins from western diamondback rattlesnakes to block venom from several snake species.
• Optimized combinations of FETUA proteins were up to 10 times more potent than current sheep-derived treatments.
• The researchers found that individual FETUA proteins could counter certain effects of venom, but combining several proteins made it much more effective.
• This breakthrough could help address the global challenge of snakebites, which kill an estimated 80,000 to 140,000 people annually.

Key Terms

FETUA

A family of toxin-blocking proteins found in rattlesnake blood

Metalloproteinase inhibitors

Proteins that block the activity of metalloproteinases, enzymes found in venom

Implications

Snakebites are a major health threat in many parts of the world, especially in rural areas where access to medical care is limited. This new antivenom could save thousands of lives and improve treatment options for those affected by snakebites.