A Paradigm Shift in Snakebite Envenoming Therapy: From Conventional Antivenoms to Rationally Designed, Broadly Neutralizing Combination Therapies

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  A Paradigm Shift in Snakebite Envenoming Therapy: From Conventional Antivenoms to Rationally Designed, Broadly Neutralizing Combination Therapies Abstract For over a century, polyclonal antivenom has been the cornerstone of snakebite therapy, saving countless lives. However, the current production method, based on immunizing large animals, has inherent limitations in terms of safety, stability, and supply reliability, thereby creating a pressing need for alternative technologies. This review charts the rise of next-generation antivenoms built on recombinant antibody engineering. We systematically survey the strategies for discovering and developing these molecules, from humanized monoclonal antibodies and VHHs to computationally designed proteins. Our central thesis is that achieving broad-spectrum neutralization against complex venoms requires a shift from single-agent approaches to rationally designed, oligoclonal “cocktail” therapies (defined mixtures of a few select therapeut...

Notes on a type specimen of Poecilotheria Simon, 1885 from India (Araneae: Theraphosidae)

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Notes on a type specimen of Poecilotheria Simon, 1885 from India (Araneae: Theraphosidae)

Sherwood (2019) synonymised the Indian species Poecilotheria chaojii Mirza, Sanap & Bhosale, 2014 with P. tigrinawesseli Smith, 2006 based on the morphology of the ventral leg markings (VLM) and the taxonomic insignificance of differences in the number of maxillary tubercles. She also stated: “Further photographs (requested) of the P. chaojii holotype were unavailable as the specimen has not yet been deposited in the Bombay Natural History Society, despite being assigned an accession number.” (Sherwood, 2019: 19), having attempted via email to obtain photographs and information about the holotype several times from Indian colleagues. In early 2024, the junior author (RT) was able to visit the collections of the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and examine spider types, also finding that of P. chaojii present. At the request of the senior author (DS), photographs were taken of the holotype to gather information previously not available to her. The purpose of this note is to discuss, and present high-quality photographs of, the holotype, and inform colleagues that it is deposited in BNHS.

Sherwood, Danniella & Tripathi, Rishikesh. (2024). Notes on a type specimen of Poecilotheria Simon, 1885 from India (Araneae: Theraphosidae). 13. Newsletter of the British Arachnological Society No. 160, Summer 2024