The venom of some of the world’s deadliest snakes could soon be used to heal wounds and save lives as patients with bleeding are taken to hospital.
This is because the reptile poison cocktail contains proteins that help speed up blood clotting.
The deadliest and most terrifying snakes in the world
The research team at the Australian Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology (AIBN) is working on a “poison gel,” which has received subsequent funding from the U.S. Department of Defense.
“Powerful” poison gel is still liquid when stored in a cool place, but solidifies at body temperature to seal the wound.
Amanda Kijas said the ice shows “exciting results”. It is now being tested in preclinical assessments to determine if it is safe. (University of Queensland)
Over time, this gel is expected to be sold in pharmacies, added to first aid kits, and used by paramedics or military personnel in combat zones to stop bleeding.
Postdoctoral researcher Amanda Kijas explained that uncontrolled bleeding is responsible for 40% of trauma-related deaths.
Sawdust vipers refer to any of the eight species of small venomous snakes found in the dry savannas of Africa, Arabia, and Southwest Asia as far as India and Sri Lanka. (iStock)
“This figure is much higher when it comes to military personnel with severe bleeding in a combat zone,” Kijas added.
“We hope that this gel will speed up the wound healing process needed to coagulate and reduce blood flow, ultimately increasing the body ‘s ability to heal large wounds.
“Research shows that there is five times less blood loss and that clots form three times faster when poison gel is applied, compared to the body ‘s natural process.
“This includes even people with hemophilia and those who use anticoagulants.”
Eastern brown snakes are found in the eastern half of Australia, except Tasmania. They are the second deadliest terrestrial snake in the world. (Adobe Stock)
The research team is also exploring how the technology could treat burns and traumatic injuries.
“Nature has created the most elegant and sophisticated mechanisms, and we can reuse them to save people from death,” Kijas said.
Poison gel is currently being tested in preclinical evaluations and will be extended to a commercial application.
The eastern brown snake of Australia is the second deadliest land snake in the world. An untreated bite can kill in less than half an hour.