Kerala researchers develop biosensor to measure snake venom for faster treatment

Thiruvananthapuram: A biosensor that can measure the amount of venom injected into the body after a snakebite and help doctors administer the required dose of anti-venom has been developed by the Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET) in Thrissur and Kerala Bio, a biotechnology startup based in Thiruvananthapuram.

The sensor, which works on the principle of surface plasmons—electromagnetic waves that can be excited on metal surfaces—is claimed to have the potential to transform snakebite treatment. India records an estimated 5 lakh snakebite cases annually, according to available estimates.

The device can rapidly determine the amount of venom in the body by analysing a sample of wound exudate, a drop of blood, or urine from the victim. This is made possible through a specially designed chip integrated into the sensor.

The chip is coated with antibodies developed by isolating a common protein found in the venom of four medically significant snakes—the Indian cobra, common krait, Russell's viper, and saw-scaled viper. Once the venom level is identified, doctors can administer the required dose of monovalent anti-venom, said Dr R Dileep Kumar, founder of Kerala Bio, who led the research.

The same technology can also be adapted to detect toxins from bites or stings by spiders, scorpions and other venomous creatures.

The developers are now preparing to begin commercial-scale production of the biosensor. Dr Dileep Kumar is also the founder of Indriyam Biologics and D2S Bio Solutions.