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In a significant breakthrough, researchers have identified a powerful antibody capable of neutralizing a critical type of neurotoxin produced by four distinct and deadly snake species originating from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. This discovery represents a crucial step towards developing a universal antivenom effective against the approximately 200 dangerous venomous snake species worldwide.
The study, published in Science Translational Medicine, unveils a game-changing antibody that targets long-chain three-finger alpha-neurotoxins (3FTx-L), a pivotal component of many snake venoms. These toxins, which induce paralysis by disrupting nerve cell function, contribute to the estimated annual death toll of 81,000 to 138,000 people globally from snakebites.
Lead researcher Nicholas Casewell, a toxinologist from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, describes the significance of the discovery as a major stride in combatting snake venom. The antibody, dubbed 95Mat5, demonstrates unparalleled effectiveness in neutralizing the venom of several lethal snake species.
Traditional antivenoms, derived from animal antibodies, face significant limitations. Variability in snake venom composition complicates treatment selection, and adverse immune reactions pose risks to patients. By contrast, 95Mat5 offers a promising alternative as a human-derived antibody, potentially minimizing adverse reactions.
The research, a collaboration between scientists at various institutions including the Indian Institute of Science and Scripps Research, utilized innovative techniques to identify and test the antibody. Lab-grown cells synthesized synthetic versions of key venom components, which were then screened against a vast library of artificial human antibodies. The painstaking process yielded 95Mat5 as the most effective candidate, capable of binding to alpha-bungarotoxin—the primary 3FTx-L in several snake species’ venom.
Experimental trials on mice confirmed the antibody’s remarkable protective capabilities, demonstrating survival even after exposure to lethal doses of snake venom. Notably, 95Mat5 exhibited efficacy against venoms from species notorious for their potency, such as the many-banded krait, monocellate cobra, and black mamba.
While further development and production of the antibody pose logistical challenges, researchers remain optimistic about its potential to revolutionize snakebite treatment. Plans are underway to explore additional classes of snake toxins with the ultimate goal of creating a universal antivenom capable of neutralizing venom from all dangerous snake species worldwide.
As the quest for an effective and accessible antivenom continues, the discovery of 95Mat5 offers hope in the fight against one of the world’s most neglected health crises—snakebite envenoming.
