Some of the world’s deadliest snakes could soon be saving lives, with research from The University of Queensland showing venom could be used to stop uncontrolled bleeding.
The biomaterials research team from AIBN, led by Dr Amanda Kijas, has found protein in the venom of two snakes – Australia’s eastern brown and scaled viper – could be used as an accelerant in the body’s natural blood-clotting process.
The team is working on a gel that could be sold in pharmacies, added to first aid kits, and used by paramedics or military personnel in combat zones, to stop bleeding while a patient is taken to hospital.
The venom gel remains a liquid when stored in a cool place but solidifies at body temperature to seal the wound.
Last updated:
29 June 2022