An international group of researchers, including specialists of the Baltic Federal University, has discovered unexpected properties in freshwater micro -crossbars. It turned out that their polysaccharides can effectively neutralize toxins in the poison of snakes.
Experiments were conducted with the poison of American Batrops – representatives of the Gadyukov family. Scientists have identified a scoop and nanochloris from algae special compounds, which almost completely suppress the effect of poison. These substances prevent violations of blood coagulation and protect cell membranes from destruction.
Every year, tens of thousands of people die from the bites of snakes, mainly in tropical countries. Existing antidias are often expensive, unavailable and can cause serious side effects. A new discovery can lead to the creation of safer and affordable antidotes.
The study is of particular value for regions with limited access to medical care. In the future, the method can also be adapted to neutralize the poison of an ordinary viper common in Russia.
The work was carried out together with Brazilian and Russian colleagues.
