He let snakes bite him for years, and became an inspiration

According to a BBC report, a man named Tim Friede, living in the state of Wisconsin, conducted antivenom research by injecting himself with snake venom for 18 years.

As a result of studies conducted by scientists on Friede’s immune system, an antivenom formula has been developed that is stated to be effective against 19 different venomous snake species.

While the developed antivenom has so far only been tested on mice, researchers state that it could take several years to move on to human trials.

Immunologist Jacob Glanville, who is part of the research team, said, "Tim’s experience in this matter is unique. He spent over 17 years trying to build immunity against many venomous snake species from different continents, and he kept meticulous records during this process."

Glanville also emphasized that this method is absolutely not recommended, warning that "snake venom is dangerous."

Peter Kwong from Columbia University pointed out that the study has two important aspects, stating, "First, we may have an antivenom combination that could be developed within a few years. Second, it shows how powerful a potential the human immune system possesses."

Tim Friede noted that he has been interested in reptiles and venomous animals since his childhood, that he began injecting himself with venom out of "simple curiosity" at first, and that he later realized this experience could help others.

Steven Hall, a snake venom pharmacologist at Lancaster University in the UK, described the method as "very creative and impressive," while stating that human-derived antibodies could potentially cause fewer side effects compared to traditional antivenoms obtained from horses.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 110,000 people lose their lives every year due to snake envenomation.

On the other hand, traditional antivenom production is carried out by injecting venom into large mammals to obtain antibodies, and this process is both costly and can have a limited scope of effectiveness because it is species-specific.

News Source: AA