Research shows blood thinners to be effective against cobra venom

Recent studies by international researchers have revealed that a commonly used blood thinner, heparin, can significantly neutralize the necrosis-causing toxins in cobra venom. Approximately 138,000 people die annually due to snakebites, and more than 400,000 suffer from necrosis, primarily in low- and middle-income rural areas of Africa and South and Southeast Asia where cobra bites are prevalent. Current antibody-based antivenoms do little to prevent tissue damage, typically resulting in permanent disabilities. This is prepared by SSP.

The research, published in Science Translational Medicine, demonstrated that heparin and related drugs effectively halt cobra venom-induced tissue destruction in both cells and mice - lowering venom-induced wound sizes dramatically. Heparinoids such as tinzaparin, reducing venom-caused lesions by 94% when administered alongside the venom, showed the most promise. Given their established market presence, these drugs could streamline clinical trials and swift deployment in rural areas with limited access to hospitals.

Using the CRISPR gene-editing tool, researchers have pinpointed that cobra venom toxins need to bind with heparan sulfates, sugars in human cell membranes, to inflict their damage. Heparin and similar drugs intercepted these toxins, guarding the cells and reducing injuries dramatically.

Senior study author Prof. Greg Neely from the University of Sydney explained, "Our discovery could potentially redress severe injuries and improve survival rates from necrosis caused by cobra bites by slowing venom progression." Additionally, PhD student Tian Du posits heparin’s cost-effectiveness and widespread availability make it a promising candidate for this purpose.

While effective against cobra venom, heparinoids do not work with viper venoms, highlighting a pathway to creating broader-spectrum antivenoms. Lead researchers, including Nicholas Casewell of the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, envision rapid development and deployment of this treatment in bite-affected areas, significantly aiding in the global struggle against snakebite deaths and disabilities.

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