Scientists neutralize pit viper venom with compound from fruits and vegetables

　　div classBodysc17zpet90 cdBBJodivpSAO PAULO Reuters – A substance found in fruits and vegetables can neutralize the venom of a poisonous pit viper common in much of South America, Brazilian researchers have discovered. p

　　pIn Brazil, the Bothrops jararaca, also called “yarara,” is responsible for most of the countrys roughly 26,000 recorded snake bites each year, according to the online Reptile Database.pdivdivdiv classBodysc17zpet90 cdBBJodiv

　　pThe study, conducted by Sao Paulos Butantan Institute and published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology, found that a modified version of the compound rutin, the water soluble succinyl rutin, can delay the effect of a poisonous bite.p

　　pThe finding could complement standard treatment with antibothropic serum, offering an emergency fix for those bitten in remote locations where immediate access to medical services is impossible.p

　　pMarcelo Santoro, who coordinated the research, said the serum treats the main effects of the snakebite.p

　　p“In this sense, rutin would serve as an adjuvant: not to replace the serum, but to delay the effects of poisoning, controlling bleeding and inflammation,” he said.p

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　　pp Reporting by Reuters TV Writing by Ana Mano Editing by Rosalba OBrienp

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