Thu Sep 19 09:01:00 UTC 2024: ## New Tool Helps Scientists Identify Deadly Snake Venom
**Chicago, IL (September 19, 2024)** – A new tool called VenomCap promises to revolutionize the way scientists identify potentially deadly snake venom, speeding up the development of effective antivenoms. Developed by a team of researchers including Sara Ruane, Assistant Curator of Herpetology at the Field Museum in Chicago, VenomCap utilizes genetic analysis to pinpoint venom-producing genes in snakes.
Published in the journal Molecular Ecology Resources, the study demonstrates that VenomCap can successfully identify these genes with 76 percent accuracy, on average. This breakthrough is significant because it allows scientists to quickly and efficiently determine which snakes carry potentially deadly toxins.
Currently, only around 10% of the estimated 4,000 known snake species have venom harmful to humans. However, accurate identification of venomous snakes is critical for developing effective antivenom treatments. VenomCap could significantly streamline this process.
“Knowing what’s in a certain kind of venom can help in the development of antivenom for treating that kind of snakebite,” said Ruane.
The study also highlighted the potential for utilizing venom components in the creation of human medicines. Notably, the first ACE-inhibitor drug for treating high blood pressure was derived from a compound found in Brazilian pit viper venom.
“You can harness the power of death in a controlled way,” Ruane said.
This advancement comes at a critical time as snakebites remain a significant global health concern. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 5.4 million people are bitten by snakes each year, resulting in 1.8 to 2.7 million cases of envenomation and an estimated 81,410 to 137,880 deaths annually.
VenomCap’s potential applications extend beyond simply identifying venom-producing genes. The tool could also be used to study the relationship between a snake’s lifestyle, environment, and venom composition. This information could offer valuable insights into the evolution of venom and its role in a snake’s survival.
“Any kind of work that looks at snake venom and helps us identify the venoms present in different species can be extremely important to provide baseline data for developing effective treatments,” Ruane emphasized.
The development of VenomCap represents a significant step forward in the fight against snakebite envenomation, particularly in regions where venomous snakes are common and medical resources are limited. This tool holds great promise for improving the understanding of snake venom and ultimately saving lives.
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