99% Invisible Science Vs Snakes
Mar 30, 2021
Wendy Zuckerman, host of the podcast Science Vs, joins to unravel the deadly world of snakes and their venom. The discussion dives into alarming statistics on snakebite fatalities and the inefficiencies in antivenom production. Listeners hear a gripping survival story of a man racing against time after a snake bite, underscoring the vital role of medical intervention. Fascinating insights into snake behavior reveal their unique personalities and even their hidden auditory skills, challenging our perceptions of these misunderstood reptiles.
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Antivenom Production
- Antivenom production involves injecting horses with small amounts of venom.
- Horses develop antibodies, which are then extracted from their blood to create antivenom.
Unchanged Process
- Antivenom production methods remain largely unchanged since the late 1800s.
- While minor improvements exist, such as injecting horses with multiple venoms, the core process remains the same.
Universal Antivenom Challenges
- A universal antivenom is desired but faces funding challenges.
- Drug companies have historically underinvested in antivenom research due to limited profitability in affected regions.