Camel tears are showing promise as a novel solution for snakebite treatment in India, a country with the highest global fatalities. Researchers found camel antibodies, specifically nanobodies, can neutralize snake venom, offering a heat-stable and potentially more accessible alternative to traditional antivenoms, especially for remote regions.Snakebites remain a serious health threat in India, claiming tens of thousands of lives annually. With an estimated 250,000 snakebite incidents and over 58,000 deaths each year, India accounts for the highest number of snakebite fatalities in the world, according to the latest global reports.Most of these deaths occur in rural areas where access to proper medical care is limited. The venom injected by snakes can cause severe damage or death if not treated promptly. Fortunately, antivenoms provide an effective solution to counteract the deadly effects of snake venom. These life-saving medicines neutralise toxins and reduce complications, significantly improving survival rates when administered quickly. However, challenges remain in ensuring the timely availability and affordability of antivenoms, especially in remote regions. However, science now might have a solution coming from the most unexpected source.There are two studies around this surprising possibility, where researchers from the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory in Dubai and the National Research Centre on Camel in Rajasthan have investigated the unique properties of camel antibodies, specifically how they might be used to treat snake bites and they had some astonishing resultsCamels possess antibodies known as nanobodies, which are smaller, more stable, and more resilient than the typical antibodies found in other animals. These nanobodies are particularly effective at binding and neutralising toxins. According to researchers, a single drop of camel tear fluid has shown potential in neutralizing venom from multiple snake species. These findings suggest that camel tears could provide a practical and easily accessible source for antivenom.One of the most significant advantages of camel nanobodies is their heat stability. Unlike traditional antivenoms, which require refrigeration to remain effective, camel-derived antibodies can be stored at higher temperatures. This makes them an ideal option for regions with limited access to cold storage, such as rural and remote areas in developing countries. The heat-resistant nature of camel nanobodies could pave the way for a new generation of antivenoms that are easier to produce, transport, and distribute.While the initial results are exciting, it's important to remember that these claims are still in the early stages and finalisation of practical use is still not put forth. Researchers are still working to validate the effectiveness of camel antibodies against a broader range of snake venoms. Without this rigorous testing, it's difficult to confirm whether camel tears can indeed neutralize venom from 26 different snake species, as some reports suggest.
Camel tears vs snake venom: Can this desert miracle save lives in India? | - The Times of India
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