"Breakthrough: Universal Synthetic Antibody Neutralizes Diverse Snake Venoms"

Scientists at Scripps Research Institute have identified a potential universal antivenom for snakebites by screening human antibodies and discovering one that counteracts a protein in venom found in various snake species. The antibody, called 95Mat5, protected mice against venom from snakes including king cobras and black mambas. This breakthrough could be crucial for low and middle-income countries with high snakebite burdens, as existing antivenoms are specific to individual snake species. The researchers are now pursuing other broadly neutralizing antibodies to potentially create a universal antivenom cocktail against medically relevant snake venoms.