Large animal models for the assessment of snakebite envenoming therapies

npj Drug Discovery. 2026 Open access

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Authors: Melisa Bénard-Valle, Shirin Ahmadi, Cassandra M. Modahl, Édgar Neri-Castro, Alejandro Alagón, Leslie Boyer, Anne Ljungars, Andreas H. Laustsen
DOI: 10.1038/s44386-026-00043-8
Cited by: 3
References: 87

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.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Venomous Animal Envenomation and Studies Healthcare and Venom Research Marine Invertebrate Physiology and Ecology

Publication details

Journal / source
npj Drug Discovery.
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Volume
3
Issue
1
Pages
12–12
Publication date
1 April 2026
Language
EN