Rattlesnake blood proteins show promise as potent antivenom, researchers report

The short version

• Researchers discovered that combining toxin-blocking proteins found naturally in rattlesnake blood powerfully neutralizes venom from several dangerous snake species.[ScienceDaily]
• Laboratory tests showed optimized combinations were approximately 10 times more potent than an existing sheep-derived rattlesnake antivenom.[ScienceDaily]
• Study lead Sean B. Carroll anticipates initial commercial use may target veterinary medicine before potential development for human snakebites.[ScienceDaily]

Key facts

• Combinations of toxin-blocking proteins naturally occurring in rattlesnake blood can neutralize venom across multiple dangerous snake species.[ScienceDaily]
• Optimized protein combinations proved roughly 10 times more potent in lab tests than an existing commercial sheep-derived antivenom.[ScienceDaily]
• The research, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, was led by Sean B. Carroll.[ScienceDaily]
• Individual FETUA proteins counteract specific venom effects, but single proteins alone fail to prevent fatal outcomes from bites.[ScienceDaily]
• The World Health Organization estimates venomous snakes cause 80,000 to 140,000 deaths every year.[ScienceDaily]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Scientists discover a powerful new antivenom hidden in rattlesnake bloodScienceDaily - Environment