In the study, the researchers took a vat of millions of human cells and knocked out a different human gene in each one. Then they added the box jellyfish venom – which kills cells at high doses – and looked for cells that survived. From the whole genome screening, the researchers identified human factors that are required for the venom to work.
“It’s the first molecular dissection of how this type of venom works, and possible how any venom works,” Dr Lau said. “I haven’t seen a study like this for any other venom.”
“We know the drug will stop the necrosis, skin scarring and the pain completely when applied to the skin,” said Associate Professor Neely, who is the senior author on the paper. “We don’t know yet if it will stop a heart attack. That will need more research and we are applying for funding to continue this work.”
While it will be some time yet before this is actually available it is enormously useful progress. I know – as have been stung and it is not nice, and loss of life is possible, especially in children.
Many people are stung each year in north Australia, including a lot in the marine industries as well as recreational water users.
