In a recent study published in Science Translational Medicine, Joseph Jardine and his team at the Scripps Research Institute in La Jolla, California, revealed the development of a groundbreaking antibody capable of neutralizing paralyzing toxins found in the venom of deadly snakes like the black mamba and king cobra, among others.
This antibody, a synthetic protein engineered in the lab, demonstrated remarkable efficacy in protecting mice from otherwise lethal doses of venom. Jardine emphasised the pivotal role this antibody could play in the future production of antivenom, stating that it will be a crucial component of forthcoming treatments.
Venomous snakes, although diverse in species, primarily rely on a few families of toxins. Jardine and his team propose a novel concept: by combining antibodies targeting these toxin families, scientists could potentially create a universal antivenom capable of countering the effects of any snakebite worldwide. While acknowledging the complexity of such an endeavor, he expressed optimism about its feasibility in the long term.
The global impact of venomous snakebites cannot be understated, with up to approximately 140 000 fatalities reported annually by the World Health Organization. Existing antivenom treatments are outdated, relying on century-old techniques involving the injection of animal-derived antibodies, often from horses or sheep, into snakebite victims. This method poses several challenges, including the need for specific antivenoms tailored to different snake species and the risk of adverse reactions due to the introduction of foreign antibodies into the human body.
Jardine's team addressed these limitations by leveraging advanced biotechnology to identify antibodies capable of targeting specific venom components, such as the long-chain three-finger alpha-neurotoxins found in many venomous snakes. These toxins incapacitate victims by interfering with muscle function, leading to paralysis.
By developing antibodies that effectively neutralize these toxins, the researchers demonstrated promising results in mice exposed to venom from black mambas and Indian spitting cobras. Their ongoing efforts focus on expanding the scope of these antibodies to target other venomous components, aiming to broaden the efficacy of future antivenom treatments.
While the prospect of a universal antivenom is tantalising, Andreas H. Laustsen-Kiel of the Technical University of Denmark cautioned against overly optimistic expectations, citing practical challenges in product development. Instead, he advocated for region-specific antivenoms tailored to the prevalent snake species in each area.
Despite the urgent need for improved snakebite treatments, research in this field remains underfunded, particularly in regions heavily affected by venomous snakes. Jardine highlighted the critical importance of prioritizing funding for snakebite research, emphasising the devastating impact of snakebites on vulnerable populations reliant on agriculture for their livelihoods.
