In a major scientific breakthrough, Danish researchers have developed a new broad-spectrum antivenom that has shown effectiveness against 17 African snake species, offering hope for improved treatment of venomous snakebites across the continent.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), snakebites cause nearly 150,000 deaths annually worldwide, with thousands more suffering long-term disabilities such as amputations and tissue damage. Existing antivenoms often fail to neutralise all medically relevant toxins or provide broad protection against different snake species.
The new antivenom, developed by scientists from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), combines eight carefully selected nanobodies into a single cocktail. Laboratory tests showed that it provided protection against venoms from 17 African snakes, including cobras and rinkhals, while also reducing tissue damage and the risk of immune reactions.
Lead researcher Andreas Hougaard Laustsen-Kiel said the antivenom was developed using phage display technology, which allows scientists to select and replicate effective antibody fragments, or nanobodies, and produce them at scale. “This method makes it possible to produce large quantities of high-quality antivenom without relying on antibodies extracted from animals,” he explained.
The research team also highlighted that the new antivenom can be produced at a lower cost than conventional options, potentially making it more accessible in regions where snakebite treatment is limited.
However, the study, published in Nature, noted that the antivenom has yet to undergo human trials. It also showed partial effectiveness against certain species such as the black mamba and forest cobra, underlining the need for further research and clinical validation.
Despite these limitations, Laustsen-Kiel said the innovation represents a major step forward. “The antivenom has the potential to fundamentally change how snakebites are treated around the world,” he said.
-IANS