Snakebites represent a serious public health problem in many regions of the world, claiming over 100,000 lives each year and leaving thousands of people with permanent disabilities.
Until now, the only effective treatment has been the use of antivenom serums derived from the plasma of immunized animals, a costly method with limitations in its efficacy. However, a new study published in Nature presents an innovative solution: proteins designed with artificial intelligence capable of effectively and affordably neutralizing snake venom toxins.
Using artificial intelligence and advanced computational models, researchers managed to design completely new proteins to combat the most lethal snake venom toxins, known as three-finger toxins (3FTx). These toxins can cause paralysis and organ failure by interfering with nerve-muscle communication, potentially leading to death from respiratory failure.
The proteins created in this study bind to 3FTx toxins and neutralize them before they can cause harm in the body. Most remarkably, these proteins were designed from scratch, without relying on preexisting biological structures, marking a milestone in biotechnology.
Promising Results in the Laboratory
To evaluate the effectiveness of these proteins, scientists conducted tests on cells and animal models with highly positive results:
- Effective Neutralization: The proteins managed to deactivate the three main subfamilies of 3FTx toxins in laboratory tests.
- High Stability: They maintained their effectiveness at different temperatures, facilitating storage and transport.
- Protection in Mice: In trials with mice exposed to lethal doses of neurotoxins, the proteins prevented the death of the animals, demonstrating their potential as a real treatment.
Advantages Over Traditional Antivenoms
This breakthrough could revolutionize snakebite treatment, especially in regions with limited access to antivenoms. Among its main benefits are:
- Higher Efficacy: Specifically designed to neutralize dangerous toxins.
- Lower Production Cost: They can be manufactured in laboratories without the need for immunized animals.
- Greater Stability: They do not require refrigeration, facilitating distribution in rural areas.
- Fewer Adverse Effects: As they are not derived from animals, they reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
A Step Towards More Accessible Treatments
This study not only represents an advancement in snakebite treatment, but also opens up new possibilities for the development of affordable medications for neglected diseases. The computational design of proteins could transform medicine, creating innovative and cost-effective therapies for millions of people worldwide.
If future trials confirm its effectiveness, this technology will mark the beginning of a new era in the fight against venoms and other diseases.
How is snake venom currently treated?
To date, the most common treatment to counteract the effects of snake venom is the administration of antivenom serum, obtained from immunized animals like horses, containing specific proteins present in the venoms of each species.
This antidote is used in mild, moderate, and severe bites, aiming to prevent the venom from binding to tissues. However, this treatment can lead to side effects such as rash, itching, wheezing, rapid heartbeat, fever, and muscle pain.
Source: INVDES.
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