Articles tagged with Venom
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A new study published in Trends in Biotechnology suggests that mRNA technology could protect against muscle damage caused by snake venom. The treatment, which teaches cells to produce protective antibodies, has shown promising results in laboratory tests and preclinical models.
A new broad-spectrum antivenom developed by DTU researchers covers 17 African snake species and provides better protection against tissue damage, with a lower risk of immune reactions. The antivenom has shown impressive results in laboratory studies and could revolutionize the treatment of venomous snakebites in Africa.
A study suggests that climate change will shift the geographic distribution of four venomous snake species in India, leading to increased snakebite risks in certain regions. The researchers developed a snakebite risk index for Indian districts and states over the next 50 years, predicting higher risks in Northern and Northeastern states.
A University of Queensland study suggests the antivenom given to people bitten by Eastern Brown Snakes may not be as effective as it could be due to geographic variations in venom. The research found that venom from southern Australia has a strong, stable blood clot, while northern populations trigger fragile but rapid clots.
Australian skinks have developed tiny changes in a muscle receptor that blocks nerve-muscle communication, preventing paralysis and death. This finding could inform the development of novel antivenoms and therapeutic agents to counter neurotoxic venoms.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a glycopolymer-functionalized gold nanoparticle test to detect Western Diamondback Rattlesnake venom. The assay uses synthetic sugars that mimic natural receptors targeted by venom proteins, offering a potential game-changer for snake envenomation diagnosis.
Researchers warn of a growing public health issue in Brazil as scorpion stings become increasingly common due to urbanization and climate change. Experts emphasize the need for education, improved waste management, and strengthened public health systems to mitigate the problem.
Scientists have developed the most broadly effective antivenom to date, neutralizing the neurotoxins of 19 deadly snakes including black mambas and king cobras. The antivenom combines protective antibodies and a small molecule inhibitor, offering a potential universal solution for snakebite victims.
Researchers found that on islands with more space and competition, rattlesnake venom became more specialized, suggesting that animals may evolve finely tuned traits to specific prey. This challenges traditional views of evolution in fragmented environments, offering fresh insight into species adaptation.
Researchers developed a new, three times more effective version of the antibothropic serum used to treat snake venom poisoning. The improved serum had increased neutralizing antibodies and fewer proteins associated with side effects, resulting in greater potency and reduced risk of adverse reactions.
A study found that temperature and rainfall partly explain regional variation in snake venom composition, with snakes in drier regions having higher protease activity. This data can be used to create maps of expected venom types across Russell's viper's range in India.
A recent study published in MDPI reveals that plants, fungi, bacteria, protists, and even some viruses employ venom-like mechanisms to solve critical problems. The research expands our understanding of venom beyond animal organisms, highlighting its broader evolutionary significance.
Researchers identified two venom genes in parasitoid wasps that degrade adult tissue precursors in host fly larvae, ensuring successful parasitism. The findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms behind the sophisticated survival strategy of these wasps.
The 'Under the Snakefluence' study surveys people in 20+ countries to understand public perceptions of snakes and assess educational efforts to promote safe coexistence. Research shows that delaying medical treatment can be fatal or cause permanent disability.
Researchers created new proteins using AI that bind to and neutralize deadly snake toxins, providing a safer alternative to traditional antivenoms. The study's results show an 80-100% survival rate in mice, offering potential benefits for people in developing countries.
Researchers at the University of Washington have developed new proteins that can neutralize lethal snake venom toxins using deep learning computational methods. These protein designs show promise for creating safer and more cost-effective antivenoms, potentially saving millions of lives annually.
A McGill University-led study found patterns between triggers and symptoms of anaphylaxis, revealing a strong link between tree nuts and throat tightness. The research also suggests that drinking alcohol may increase the risk of severe reactions to nut allergies.
Researchers found neurotransmitters GABA and choline in the venom of estuarine and reef stonefish, which can modulate cardiovascular function. The discovery could aid in targeted treatments and venom-derived compound development for drug discovery.
Researchers from University of Queensland discovered a toxin in ant venom that causes extreme pain by hyperstimulating sodium channels. The study uses electrophysiology and pharmacology to understand the mechanism, which may also apply to other insects like wasps and bees.
A new species of small, venomous reptile has been discovered in the Late Triassic Chinle Formation in northeastern Arizona. The species, Microzemiotes sonselaensis, features distinct grooves on its teeth that likely facilitated venom delivery, indicating a reliance on venom in its feeding strategy.
A study from Goethe University Frankfurt reveals that venomous crustaceans, specifically remipede crabs in Mexican cenote caves, contain a variety of toxins with pharmacological potential. The xibalbines peptides effectively inhibit potassium channels and activate signaling pathways involved in pain sensitization.
Scientists developed VenomCap to analyze venom genes in snakes, shedding light on snake evolution and developing effective treatments for deadly snake bites. The technique enables quicker analysis of thousands of venom-making genes, paving the way for improved antivenom development and global public health.
A deadly marine cone snail's venom contains a toxin that interacts with human cells in a specific manner, regulating blood sugar levels and hormone balance. This discovery may lead to the design of more effective drugs for treating diabetes and endocrine disorders.
Researchers have developed a new therapy called PIPE-307 that targets an elusive receptor on certain cells in the brain, prompting them to mature into myelin-producing oligodendrocytes. This could potentially reverse damage caused by multiple sclerosis, leading to improved movement, balance, and vision.
A team of scientists at the University of Sydney has repurposed a commonly used blood thinner, heparin, as an inexpensive antidote for cobra venom. The discovery could drastically reduce the impact of snakebites worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where cobra species account for most snakebite incidents.
A new species of medium-sized venomous snake, Ovophis jenkinsi, has been discovered in Yunnan, China. The snake is dark brownish-grey with trapezoidal patches on its back and is generally slow-moving but shows great aggression when disturbed.
Scientists have found an effective treatment for spitting cobra snakebites by blocking one of the major dermonecrosis-causing toxins with varespladib. The study suggests that this repurposed drug can prevent tissue damage and may become a valuable treatment against black-necked and red spitting cobra venoms.
Research in Paraguay highlights the importance of collecting better data to estimate the true burden of snakebites, which claim around 80,000-140,000 lives annually. The study found that most cases occur among men of productive age working in agricultural or livestock settings.
Scientists at Indian Institute of Science have developed a synthetic human antibody that can neutralise a potent neurotoxin produced by highly toxic snakes. The new venom-neutralising antibody was created using an approach adapted from HIV and COVID-19 antibody screening, and shows efficacy nearly 15 times that of conventional antiveno...
Researchers discovered an antibody that can block deadly toxins in snakes found throughout Africa, Asia, and Australia. The antibody protects against multiple snake species and has the potential to be used as a universal antivenom.
A new study finds that most people take steps to prevent snakebites, but the measures taken don't always reflect evidence-based advice. Promoting locally practical methods could save many lives, especially in rural areas where snakes are more common.
Researchers discover antibody-dependent enhancement of toxicity (ADET), a phenomenon where antibodies can amplify venom's potency. The breakthrough contributes to expediting the development of a new generation of antivenom, potentially saving millions from snakebites yearly.
A University of Queensland team has developed a spider venom molecule, Hi1a, that protects cells from heart attack and stroke damage. The drug candidate has passed critical benchmarks in preclinical tests, which indicate it could be an effective therapeutic with reduced side effects.
A Brazilian study found that incomplete notification of snakebites and underreporting hinder public health actions. Researchers advocate for training health workers to recognize ophidic accidents and complete notification forms correctly.
Researchers from Brazil have discovered two novel peptides with biotechnological potential in the venom of the pit viper Cotiara and the South American bushmaster. The peptides, including Bc-7a and Lm-10a, show promise as potential treatments for high blood pressure.
Making antivenom more widely available across hospitals and community health centers in the Brazilian Amazon region would significantly reduce death and disability from venomous snakebites. The study found that expanding access to both hospitals and community health centers would produce the largest benefits, averting up to 3,922 death...
Holford's research will focus on developing new directions for using cephalopod venoms in drug discovery and exploring their evolutionary dynamics. Her study has broad applications for science, including understanding venom gland biology and the molecular mechanisms behind bioactive compounds.
A recent case study highlights the challenges faced by families seeking venom immunotherapy for fire ant allergies, particularly in low-income communities. Despite proven safety and effectiveness of treatment, access remains a significant issue due to transportation barriers, lack of childcare, and work constraints.
Researchers discovered unprecedented snake venom resistance in caecilians, highlighting the species' ability to evolve under severe selective pressure. The study found that caecilians deployed three distinct biological methods to resist elapid snake venom, including changing receptor shape and deploying an electromagnetic 'weapon'.
Researchers found a strong association between increased maximum daily air temperatures and venomous snake bites in Georgia. The study suggests that snakes become more active during warmer springs, leading to a higher likelihood of bites.
Researchers at The University of Queensland have discovered the venom of asp caterpillars contains toxins similar to those produced by disease-causing bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. These toxins can punch holes in cells, making them a potential source for targeted cancer treatment.
Researchers discovered crucial differences in venoms across the lifecycle of cone snails, using a new laboratory aquarium system to study juvenile stages. The findings reveal unique adaptations for hunting and venom composition, offering potential new drugs for pain medication and disease treatment.
Researchers found a peptide from venomous fish Thalassophryne nattereri that controls lung inflammation and airway hyperreactivity. The molecule, TnP, inhibited cytokine production and prevented mucus-producing cell hyperplasia, making it a potential candidate for treating asthma.
The study reveals the life cycles of four Lonomia Walker species, characterized by unique morphological features. New parasitoids and host plants have also been discovered, shedding light on the complex relationships within this genus.
Researchers at University of Queensland have identified a novel pain pathway triggered by the Gympie-Gympie tree's toxins, which could lead to non-opioid pain relief. The gympietide toxin interacts with nerves after injection through fine needle-like hairs on the leaves and requires a partner protein called TMEM233 to function.
Researchers developed a new prototype treatment using a human antibody that neutralizes neurotoxins from African and Asian elapid snakes, with potential for broader cross-reactivity. The treatment showed promising results in preventing death from venom envenoming in mice.
Scientists at University of Galway have discovered that the noble false widow spider feeds on the endangered pygmy shrew. The study highlights the invasive spider's potent venom and complex hunting behavior, raising concerns about its impact on native species in Ireland and Britain.
Researchers identified 92 proteins in the spider's venom, including cysteine-rich peptides with potential therapeutic applications. The toxins were found to be effective in paralyzing crickets and may become active ingredients for pharmaceuticals and biological insecticides.
A six-year study involving 146 patients found that antivenom reduced the risk of skin necrosis in those bitten by brown recluse spiders. Administration of the substance was safe with minimal adverse effects, particularly when given within 48 hours of the incident.
A study found that male mason wasps use their genitalia to sting and defend against predatory tree frogs. This defense mechanism is a first for the scientific community, as it highlights the importance of male genitalia in animal interactions.
A high-throughput analysis of 26 medically important snakes in sub-Saharan Africa reveals the benefits of an integrated approach to understanding their venom composition and function. The study provides a solid foundation for further research on snake biology and antivenom development.
Researchers identified a single protein, FETUA-3, that inhibits a broad spectrum of rattlesnake venom toxins. The discovery may lead to the development of improved snake bite treatments and novel therapeutic options.
Researchers at University of Queensland have found that native New Zealand stinging tree toxins activate pain receptors differently than Australian counterparts, offering potential for novel pain medication. The study aimed to understand pain pathways and tackle chronic pain effectively without side effects and addiction.
Scientists have discovered a new, venomous pit viper species in Jiuzhaigou National Nature Reserve, China. The newly described snake has unique characteristics and is found to feed on small mammals in sunny days by the roadside.
Researchers discovered that rattlesnakes' venom evolves through balancing selection, favoring genetic diversity and a diverse set of tools to subdue prey. This finding has implications for developing anti-venom therapeutics to better treat snakebites globally.
New research reveals that rattlesnakes maintain a broad and diverse toolkit of genes encoding snake venom, allowing them to adapt as local prey and conditions change. This adaptation enables snakes to overcome prey species evolving resistance to their venoms over millions of years.
Scientists have identified 118 toxin genes in the many-banded krait's genome, including a diverse three-finger toxin family. The study provides valuable resources for developing next-generation antivenoms with well-defined compositions.
Researchers at UTA and international collaborators have discovered the regulatory architecture that drives snake venom expression, shedding light on the evolution of complex traits. The study provides a detailed explanation of how snakes developed specialized venom glands to produce diverse deadly proteins.
Scientists have found that bacterial DNA is present in the venom of snakes and spiders, which could lead to infection in victims. The study also shows that these bacteria have mutated to resist the venom, highlighting the need for clinicians to consider treating snakebite victims for infection too.
Scientists at NUI Galway found that smaller scorpion species with smaller pincers have more potent venoms compared to larger species. This contradicts Indiana Jones' theory that bigger is better when it comes to scorpions.