The scientists at the France Institute of Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology had begun their venom research by looking for particular chemicals that could block a type of protein that caused us to feel pain. These acid sensing ions— ASICs —trigger pain as a warning system whenever one of our cells are damaged. After studying the venom of numerous species, the scientists discovered two proteins in mamba venom that effectively blocked the ions.
The black mamba is currently considered as one of the most deadly snakes in the entire world. It’s venom is almost always fatal to humans, unless an antidote is given within 20 minutes of the bite. However, French scientists claim that they have discovered a chemical within the mamba’s venom that appears to be a safe alternative to morphine and other such painkillers.
The team that discovered these proteins tested them on mice, and it turns out the snake venom was as effective as many opiates, including morphine, at blocking pain. What makes this study reliable is that mice and humans share the majority of the pain pathways, so the scientists are confident that the peptides will work just as effectively on humans.
The proteins in the black mamba’s venom have been dubbed “mambalgins,” and they are a much better alternative than morphine for various reasons. “Morphine acts on the opioid pathway in the brain,” says James Gallagher at BBC News. What this means is that although morphine diminishes pain, it’s extremely addictive and has problematic side effects. Generally people who use morphine experience headaches, difficulty thinking, vomiting, and/or muscle twitching. Thus far, the mambalgins have triggered no side effects whatsoever.
Scientists regard this breakthrough as a very exciting discovery. There is even a possibility to develop an entirely new class of analgesics. However, turning this venom into a legitimate painkiller will take a while to develop. Zolton Takacs, a herpetologist, states that ” To develop a new drug, you need 10 to 15 years and $1 billion.”
It will take at least a decade for this new painkiller to actually be sold to the general public.
