Snake bites globally are a significant health issue. It is estimated by the World Health Organization that there are some 421,000 venomous snake bites each year, resulting in some 20,000 human deaths.
To find a new antidote to help tackle this problem, researchers have turned to opossums. This is because the animals are able to withstand most snake bites with no ill effects. Opossums make the largest order of marsupials in the Western Hemisphere, with over 103 species. The fury animals range in size from a large house cat to a small mouse.
Studies, led by Claire Kornives at San Jose State University, have led to the development of a serum protein, based on extracts from opossums that are able to neutralize snake venoms. This has led to a seemingly effective anti-venom therapy. This is based on studies carried out on venom-exposed mice who were subjected to bites from U.S. Western Diamondback rattlesnakes and Russell’s Viper venom from Pakistan.
Although the treatment is effective, the exact mechanism is not known. However, it is speculated that a peptide in the serum interacts with proteins in the snake venom that are toxic to humans. Based on these inquiries, the research group behind the project have been able to use genetically modified bacteria to create a synthetic form of the anti-venom.
The research has yet to be published; however, the findings will be presented to the upcoming the 249th National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society (ACS).
