Scientists at Centivax, led by Dr. Jacob Glanville, developed a broad-spectrum antivenom using antibodies from Timothy Friede, who self-injected venom from 16 deadly snakes over 18 years.

Combining two of Friede’s antibodies with varespladib, a toxin-inhibiting drug, the cocktail fully protected mice against 13 of 19 WHO-listed venomous snakes and partially against six others.

The antibodies target conserved toxin sites, enabling broad neutralization.

Plans include testing in dogs and developing antivenoms for vipers. This approach could replace species-specific treatments, simplify stockpiling, and address antivenom shortages, especially in rural areas.