COVID vaccine technology could help limit snakebite injuries
Breakthrough study explores new treatment for venom-induced muscle damage
The technology behind COVID-19 vaccines could pave the way for a new treatment to limit the muscle damage caused by snakebites.
Researchers from the University of Reading and the Technical University of Denmark have demonstrated that mRNA technology can protect against the harmful effects of venom from the Bothrops asper snake, a species found in Central and South America. This snake's venom is known to destroy muscle tissue, often leaving victims with life-changing disabilities despite receiving standard antivenom treatment.
The study used mRNA molecules coated in tiny fat particles to instruct cells in the injection site to produce protective antibodies. These antibodies shielded muscle tissue from venom damage, which snakes like the Bothrops asper cause.
Professor Sakthi Vaiyapuri from the University of Reading, who led the study, said: “For the first time, we’ve shown that mRNA technology can protect muscle tissue from snake venom-induced damage. This opens a completely new door for treating snakebites, particularly the local injuries that current antivenoms struggle to prevent.”
While the research focused on snake venom, co-lead researcher Professor Andreas Laustsen from the Technical University of Denmark highlighted the broader potential of the approach:
“We tested this treatment on snake venom, but this technology could be even more useful for other conditions where toxins cause harm gradually. For example, it might help block harmful toxins produced by bacteria during infections.”
Promising results in laboratory tests
Traditional antivenoms are effective in neutralising toxins in the bloodstream but are less successful in treating localised muscle damage at the bite site. In laboratory studies using human muscle cells, the mRNA treatment reduced such damage caused by venom.
In tests involving mice, the treatment also proved effective. A single injection of mRNA delivered 48 hours before venom exposure helped prevent muscle damage by reducing markers such as creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase, which rise when muscle injury occurs. The treated mice also retained healthier muscle structures compared to those without treatment.
This approach could work in tandem with existing antivenoms. While antivenoms deal with toxins in the bloodstream, mRNA-derived antibodies could better protect muscle tissue near the bite site and neutralise circulating toxins.
Challenges ahead
Although the results are promising, the researchers say there are significant hurdles to overcome before the technology can be used to treat patients.
One of the main challenges is that the protective antibodies take 12 to 24 hours to develop, limiting immediate effectiveness. Currently, the treatment also targets just one venom toxin, while snake venom typically contains multiple harmful components. Additionally, storage and distribution in remote areas without refrigeration remain obstacles.
Professor Vaiyapuri said: “We now need to expand this approach to target multiple venom toxins and solve storage challenges for rural areas, as well as ensure faster production of antibodies in tissues. The potential to reduce disabilities among snakebite victims is significant.”
The team’s next steps include developing treatments that address multiple toxins and testing whether the technology works when administered after a snakebite occurs.