AI-Designed Proteins Revolutionize Snakebite Treatment

Researchers from the University of Washington and the Technical University of Denmark have developed new proteins using computational design to neutralize dangerous snake venom toxins, signaling a breakthrough in antivenom solutions, SciTech Daily reported. Each year, over 2 million people suffer snakebites, resulting in over 100,000 deaths and severe complications, particularly in regions with limited access to treatment.

The study, published in Nature, focuses on elapid snakebites, which are often treated with costly antibodies from immunized animals. The newly designed proteins, created through deep learning techniques, effectively neutralized all tested three-finger toxins in lab dishes and protected mice from lethal neurotoxin exposure.

These proteins offer advantages over traditional antivenoms, including consistent manufacturing via recombinant DNA technologies and smaller size for better tissue penetration. The researchers believe this computational design approach could also benefit the development of treatments for other neglected diseases, potentially reducing costs and resource requirements in healthcare.