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Genome of Indian cobra
January 19 , 2020
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- An international team of researchers have sequenced the genome of the Indian cobra.
- In the Indian cobra genome, the researchers have identified 19 key toxin genes, the only ones that should matter in snakebite treatment.
- This genome sequence can provide a blueprint for developing more effective anti-venom.
- In India, the challenge has been producing anti-venom for the species known collectively as the “big four”
- The Indian cobra (Naja naja),
- Common krait (Bungarus caeruleus),
- Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii), and
- Saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus).
- These 4 species are not found in northeastern India but the region reports a significant number of snake bites.
- India is the snakebite capital of the world.
- India alone accounts for about 50,000 deaths annually, and these are primarily attributed to the “big four”.
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