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Breakthrough Universal Antivenom Developed

Scientists at Scripps Research have created an antibody that could revolutionize treatment for snake bites globally.

  • Scripps Research scientists have developed a universal antivenom effective against a wide variety of deadly snakes across Africa, Asia, and Australia.
  • The antivenom, based on an antibody named 95Mat5, has shown promise in protecting mice from the lethal effects of venom from notorious snakes like the black mamba and king cobra.
  • This breakthrough could significantly reduce the global health risk posed by snake bites, which currently result in over 100,000 deaths annually.
  • The development of 95Mat5 and potentially other antibodies could lead to a comprehensive solution against snake venoms worldwide, without the need for species-specific antivenoms.
  • Researchers are optimistic about creating a cocktail of antibodies that could serve as a universal antivenom against any medically relevant snake.
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