Bitten for Science

Scientists have developed a potent new antivenom using antibodies from Tim Friede, a US snake collector with extraordinary immunity built through years of extreme self-exposure. Friede intentionally subjected himself to 200 venomous snake bites and self-administered over 800 doses of venom from many of the world's deadliest species, including cobras, mambas, and taipans.

The study presents a novel therapy that combines copies of Friede's unique antibodies with the existing drug varespladib. Tests in mice showed it successfully protected against the venoms of 19 different deadly snake species, including the king cobra. This broad efficacy represents a significant advance towards developing antivenoms effective against multiple types of snakebite.

Friede initially sought immunity for personal protection while handling snakes. However, his dangerous practice evolved into a dedicated mission to help others globally. Motivated by the high death toll from snakebites worldwide, he continued his extreme self-immunization despite the risks, viewing it as a critical path to developing better therapies for the tens of thousands who suffer and die from snakebite annually in regions far from him. His unique biological response provided the key component for this promising new antivenom approach.

"I'm doing something good for humanity and that was very important to me. I'm proud of it. It's pretty cool." remarks Tim about his exploits.