A new and more effective antidote against snake venom is close to becoming a reality. According to a study published by the journal Cell on May 2, scientists used the blood of a man who had been bitten by snakes more than 200 times to produce a universal antidote, that is, one that is capable of neutralizing venoms from different species.

Tim Friede, who lives in the United States and has been fascinated by snakes since he was a kid, was voluntarily bitten and received venom injections for 18 years. The goal was to make Friede’s body produce different antibodies, capable of fighting different venoms.

Current antidotes are produced from the venom of each species. If the venom used is from a coral snake, for example, the antidote will only protect against the venom of that species or of species in the same family.

Using Friede’s blood, scientists were able to produce two synthetic antibodies that protected mice against the venom of various snakes. If all goes well in the upcoming tests, this new treatment could save many lives, especially in remote areas where help is slow to arrive. According to the World Health Organization, an average of 100,000 people die each year from snake bites.

How an antidote against snake venom is made

Collecting the venom

In a laboratory prepared for this stage, experts extract small amounts of venom from snakes that have been safely captured.

Injecting into horses

In very small doses, the venom is injected into horses. The bodies of these animals, which are not injured, begin to produce antibodies to defend themselves.

From antibodies to antidote

In the laboratory, scientists separate the antibodies from the blood and transform them into a liquid, the antidote, which can be injected into people.

Tests for approval

The antidote is tested many times before being sent to hospitals or care centers.

Sources: Instituto Butantan, National Geographic Brasil, Science, Cell and G1.

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