Scientists at Vrije University Amsterdam and the Naturalis Biodiversity Center in the Netherlands have made a significant stride in the study of snake venom and its deadly effects on blood vessels. They have engineered a miniaturized “blood-vessel-on-a-chip” that accurately replicates the shape and cellular composition of human blood vessels.
This innovative device contains endothelial cells, the cells that line blood vessels, as well as the extracellular matrix, the physical framework that supports these cells. By closely mimicking the structure and function of actual blood vessels, this chip provides a valuable platform to investigate how snake venom wreaks havoc within the circulatory system.
The researchers utilized their miniature blood-vessel model to examine how different types of snake venom inflict damage upon blood vessels. They exposed the chip to venom extracted from four distinct snake species: Indian cobras, West African carpet vipers, many-banded kraits, and Mozambique spitting cobras. These snakes belong to the families Elapidae and Viperidae, known for their venomous bites.
Employing specialized imaging techniques, the team peered into the chips as venom coursed through them. Their observations revealed that some venoms directly harm the membranes of endothelial cells, while others dislodge the cells from their extracellular matrix, causing blood vessels to collapse. This critical insight sheds light on the mechanisms by which snake venom impairs blood vessel function.
“This model provides accurate insight into how toxins attack blood vessels,” stated the lead study author, emphasizing the potential of this chip to advance our understanding of snake venom’s effects. “This knowledge will help us develop better methods to treat snakebites, while also reducing the need to conduct studies on mice.”
Animal models have limitations in fully capturing human biology, but the blood-vessel-on-a-chip incorporates actual human cells and offers greater control and affordability in laboratory settings. The team plans to further expand their research by exposing the chip to a wider range of snake venoms, considering the diverse venomous snakes worldwide.
Snake venom poses significant threats beyond its effects on blood vessels. It can induce paralysis, leading to respiratory failure, and cause irreversible kidney damage and extensive tissue destruction. Each year, an estimated 2.7 million people globally suffer venomous snakebites. Of these, between 81,000 and 138,000 succumb to the bite’s effects, while three times that number endure permanent disabilities, such as amputations.
Antivenom, derived from antibodies produced by animals injected with specific venom, remains the primary treatment for venomous snakebites. However, antivenoms can trigger allergic reactions and face production challenges. The development of more effective and accessible antivenoms is crucial, and the blood-vessel-on-a-chip offers a promising tool to aid in the testing and evaluation of new antivenom candidates.
By reducing reliance on animal experiments and providing a more human-relevant model, this innovative technology paves the way for advancements in snakebite treatment and contributes to the broader field of venom research.
