Work

Large animal models for the assessment of snakebite envenoming therapies

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Snakebite envenoming causes over 100,000 deaths annually, creating a need for more effective therapies. Traditionally, most preclinical testing relies on murine models with limited translational value. This review highlights the value of large animal models, particularly sheep and pigs, for studying venom toxicokinetics and antibody and small-molecule pharmacokinetics. Implementing clear guidelines and standardized endpoints in large-animal studies could help advance the clinical translation of new snakebite treatments.

Source: npj Drug Discovery.

DOI: 10.1038/s44386-026-00043-8

Authors: Melisa Benard-Valle, Shirin Ahmadi, Cassandra M. Modahl, Edgar Neri-Castro, Alejandro Alagón, Leslie Boyer, Anne Ljungars, Andreas H. Laustsen

Institutions: Technical University of Denmark, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, University of Arizona

Language: English

Topic: Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,990

Funders: Wellcome Trust, Royal Society, Academy of Medical Sciences, European Commission, Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología, Danmarks Frie Forskningsfond, Medical Research Council, H2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Awards: G1200692628, Study of the functional role of microRNAs in the eye, Recombinant snakebite antivenom for sub-Saharan Africa, G504806145, International Postdoc Academy in Science and Technology, MRC IAA 2021 Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, International Postdoc Academy in Science and Technology, G6253596161, G8737755907, G8869610545

OpenAlex ID: W7147634558

FWCI: 11.3

Cites: 87

Cited by: 3

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