Taking the Bite Out of Snake Venom

on July 12, 2024

Scientists have developed a synthetic antibody that neutralizes the paralyzing toxins in the venom of black mambas, king cobras, and many other snake species.

Most snake venom relies on just a few toxin families. So, theoretically, scientists could combine antibodies that target each of those families to create a single antivenom that would work against other snake venom.

God has promised that one day the curse on creation will be lifted and children will “play over the hole of the cobra” without fear (Isaiah 11:8). But until then, we can be thankful for ways to protect human life in a fallen world.

This article is from Answers magazine, July–September, 2024, p. 19.