Artificial Intelligence-Driven Approaches to Next-Generation Snakebite Treatments

Abstract

Snakebite envenoming is a neglected tropical disease that causes significant mortality and long term disability worldwide. Current treatments rely on plasma derived polyclonal antibodies from hyperimmunized animals. While effective, these antivenoms face major challenges, including high production costs, limited availability in remote areas, and the risk of severe adverse reactions such as anaphylaxis. Recent advances in deep learning have revolutionized the field of protein design, significantly improving the ability to generate novel protein structures with therapeutic potential. This chapter reviews the limitations of current snakebite therapies and explores how artificial intelligence (AI) can support the development of next-generation antivenoms, offering safer, cost-effective, and widely accessible treatment options.