• Scientists developed an antivenom effective against multiple elapid snake species by using antibodies from Tim Friede, who self-immunized with snake venom.
• The antivenom cocktail, including two antibodies and a drug, protected mice from lethal venom doses of 13 out of 19 deadly snake species.
• This research offers a potential solution for snakebite victims worldwide, potentially reducing deaths and disabilities, and improving upon existing antivenom production methods.

Scientists have made a significant stride in developing a universal antivenom, potentially revolutionizing snakebite treatment. The research, detailed in the journal Cell, utilizes antibodies found in the blood of Tim Friede, a man who spent nearly two decades injecting himself with escalating doses of venom from multiple deadly snake species to build immunity. This unconventional approach led to the discovery of antibodies capable of neutralizing the venom of various snake species, offering a pathway to a more effective and broadly applicable antivenom.

• What: Development of a universal antivenom using antibodies from a man who self-immunized against snake venom.
• Who: Key individuals include Tim Friede, Jacob Glanville (CEO of Centivax), Peter Kwong (Columbia University), and researchers at Centivax and Columbia University. Key organizations include Centivax, Columbia University's Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, and the World Health Organization.
• When: Tim Friede injected himself with venom for nearly 18 years, ceasing in 2018. The research was published in Cell in May 2025.
• Where: The research was conducted by scientists at Columbia University and Centivax, with Friede based in Wisconsin/California. Field research is planned for Australia.

The development of a universal antivenom represents a significant advancement in treating snakebites, addressing the limitations of current species-specific antivenoms. The research leverages Friede's unique self-immunization to identify broadly neutralizing antibodies. While still in early stages, particularly in mice, this approach offers the potential for a more effective and accessible treatment, especially in regions with limited access to healthcare and a high incidence of snakebites. The human origin of the antibodies also suggests a reduced risk of side effects compared to traditional antivenoms derived from animals.

I'm really proud that I can do something in life for humanity, to make a difference for people that are 8,000 miles away, that I'm never going to meet, never going to talk to, never going to see, probably.

There is no doubt that this work moves the field forwards in an exciting direction.

If it makes it into clinic, makes it into people in the long run, it would be revolutionary. It actually would completely change the field in terms of snakebite (treatment).

The development of a broadly protective antivenom, derived from antibodies from Tim Friede, who self-immunized over many years, marks a significant advancement in addressing the global snakebite crisis, which causes up to 138,000 deaths and 400,000 permanent disabilities annually. This antivenom, comprising two human-derived antibodies and a toxin inhibitor, has demonstrated effectiveness in mice against 19 of the world's deadliest snakes, offering both full and partial protection. This research paves the way for a universal antiserum, circumventing the need for species identification and potentially covering many of the 650 venomous snake species lacking adequate treatment. Future efforts include field research in Australia, further refinement of the antibody cocktail, exploration of a fourth component to enhance protection, and development of treatments for viper venoms, alongside elapid venoms already targeted. The long-term objective is a universal antivenom or separate treatments for elapids and vipers, potentially achievable within the next 10-15 years.