Overview
- Scientists at the University of Reading and the Technical University of Denmark used lipid nanoparticles to deliver mRNA encoding antibody fragments against a Bothrops asper myotoxin.
- In human muscle cell models, antibodies emerged within 12–24 hours and reduced damage caused by both the isolated toxin and whole venom.
- In mice, a single intramuscular dose given 48 hours before toxin exposure preserved muscle structure and lowered injury markers such as creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase.
- Researchers position the approach as an adjunct to standard antivenoms to protect local tissue, addressing a source of disabilities from snakebites that kill about 140,000 people each year worldwide.
- The work remains preclinical with key hurdles including single-toxin coverage, hours needed to generate antibodies, cold-chain needs in remote areas, and unproven post-bite or human efficacy, with plans for multi-toxin formulations and post-exposure testing.