Formulations to Inhibit Hemotoxic Venoms

Case ID:
UA21-083
Invention:

This invention uses the chemical element of Ruthenium compounded with other chemical substances and in conjunction with a carbon monoxide releasing molecule (CORM-2) as an anti-venom against four different venoms from the genera Bothrops, Calloselasma, Echis, and Oxyuranus.

Background:
According to the World Health Organization, it is estimated that around 5.4 million people are bitten by venomous snakes each year and at least 80,000 of those snake bites are lethal, with many more causing long-term health issues. Additionally, effective anti-venoms can be used to combat lizard or insect bites. Currently it is very expensive to treat venomous bites and many countries lack resources to create antivenins.

Most current antivenoms are derived from mammalian plasma and therefore include a risk of transmitting viruses from those animals. This technology instead uses the metal ruthenium, which has been discovered by the inventor to be a key substance in the anti-venom properties. Further, when using carbon monoxide releasing molecule compounds in conjunction with other Ruthenium compounds, the anti-venomous properties are enhanced to create a more effective antidote for venomous bites and stings.

Applications:

  • Treats venomous bites from various animals
    • Snake bites
    • Insect bites
    • Lizard bites
  • Used in conjunction with CORM-2


Advantages:

  • Avoids use of mammalian plasma that adds risk of infection
  • Enhances current CORM-2 anti-venom treatment
  • Diversifies the classes of drugs in the lacking anti-venom development field
  • Proven effective against four different venoms
Patent Information:
Contact For More Information:
Mitch Graffeo
Sr. Licensing Manager - COM-T
The University of Arizona
mitchg@tla.arizona.edu
Lead Inventor(s):
Vance Nielsen
Keywords: