Laura is a science news writer, covering a wide variety of subjects, but she is particularly fascinated by all things aquatic, paleontology, nanotechnology, and exploring how science influences daily life. Laura is a proud former resident of the New Jersey shore, a competitive swimmer, and a fierce defender of the Oxford comma.
ArticleBody:While only about 10 percent of the roughly 4,000 known snake species have venom that can harm a human, using genetics to determine which snakes could be deadly could speed up developing better treatments for bites. A new tool called VenomCap can help scientists hone in on venom at a genetic level, so we can know which ones are likely carrying deadly toxins. The method is detailed in a study published September 19 in the journal Molecular Ecology Resources.
In the new study, the team tested VenomCap’s ability to bind with venom-producing genes. They used tissue samples from 24 kinds of snakes from the family Elapidae. This family of about 400 species includes coral snakes, cobras, and mambas and is considered medically important since their bites can destroy tissue, cause the heart to collapse, induce blindness, and more. Earlier genomic studies have shown that many of the venom-producing genes Elapidae have.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Jersey Eats: A Taste of New Jersey Returns with Expanded Food Trucks, Cooking Demos and MoreThe highly anticipated Jersey Eats festival is back, promising an even bigger and better experience for food lovers. With over 75 of the Garden State's hottest restaurants, food trucks, and eateries participating, guests can indulge in a wide variety of culinary delights. The event also features craft businesses, sports lounge with live game viewing, a dedicated kids zone, and interactive cooking demos.
Read more »
New Jersey ranked among top 10 states with rudest residents, according to new studySome of the rudest residents in the nation might just live in the Garden State, according to a new study.
Read more »
New Jersey AG lays out new mandates for police responding to barricaded suspectsThe measure follows a lawsuit against Jersey City police by the family of a man who was fatally shot by officers while experiencing a mental health crisis in his home.
Read more »
New policy will change how New Jersey police respond to some mental health callsA new statewide policy will require all police departments in New Jersey to coordinate with mental health professionals when they're responding to a call for a barricaded person.
Read more »
New Jersey Devils New Goalie Brings One Key StatThe New Jersey Devils' new starting goaltender is one of the best in the league in one key statistic.
Read more »
New York Jet Reddick to help Jersey City students get ready for new school yearStudents aged 5 to 12 years old will receive a backpack and school supplies at the special event at 5 p.m. Sept. 3 at Middle School 7.
Read more »