Large differences in snake venom make treatment challenging
Snakebite envenoming is a neglected tropical disease with high mortality, partly due to the limited cross-reactivity of current antivenoms. One key reason is the extreme variation in venom composition across species and populations. The research has shown that snake venom isn’t just made up of one or two dangerous ingredients: it’s a complex mix that can vary a lot between different snakes, even within the same species. This variation is one of the reasons why many antivenoms don’t always work well for all bites.
New analytical techniques map out venom
''Using advanced chemistry tools and computer analysis, I developed ways to study these venoms in more detail and compare them more easily. I found that it’s not enough to look at just individual toxins'', Alonso explains. ''We need to understand the full picture, including how different venom components interact and change over time. This approach can help scientists develop better treatments for snakebites and better understand how venoms have evolved.''
An important foundation for life-saving innovations
Alonso investigated how advanced analytical chemistry techniques, like LC-MS, combined with bioinformatics tools, can be used to systematically study and compare venom components, including both toxins and small molecule metabolites. The improvement of the study and development of better treatments is crucial, especially in areas like Africa, Asia, and Latin America, where access to effective antivenoms is limited. ''Doctors, researchers, and public health organisations can use these insights to design broader, more effective antivenoms by focusing on common patterns in venom instead of just specific toxins.''
Multiple applications
The research also helps speed up venom analysis building and using automation and smart software, making it easier to handle many samples quickly. This could help scientists respond faster during outbreaks of bites in specific regions. Beyond medicine, these tools can also be used in drug discovery. Snake venom contains powerful compounds that may help treat diseases like cancer or blood disorders. With further development, some of these applications could start helping in real-world settings within the next few years.
Alonso defends his PhD research on June 18.