Snake collector's immunity quest opens path towards universal antivenom
2 days ago
- #immunology
- #antivenom
- #snakebite
- Tim Friede, a former truck mechanic, self-administered over 850 doses of venom from deadly snakes over 18 years to develop immunity.
- Scientists used antibodies from Friede's blood to create a broadly protective antivenom, potentially revolutionizing snakebite treatment.
- The new antivenom combines two antibodies from Friede's blood and a small molecule venom inhibitor, offering protection against multiple snake species.
- Traditional antivenoms are species-specific and can cause severe adverse reactions, whereas the new approach aims for a universal solution.
- The research, published in 'Cell,' could address the 140,000 deaths and 300,000 permanent injuries caused by snakebites annually.
- Friede's method involved cyclical exposure to different venoms, which amplified broadly protective antibodies in his immune system.
- The team tested the antivenom in mice envenomated by 19 deadly snake species, achieving full protection against 13 and partial against others.
- Future plans include field testing in dogs in Australia and eventual human trials.
- Experts praise the work for its novel approach and potential global impact on snakebite treatment.