Researchers from LSTM’s Alistair Reid Venom Research Unit have been involved in a new exhibition that has opened at the Natural History Museum in London last week.
Venom: Killer and Cure opened to the public on 10th November and will run through to May 2018 and it looks at different aspects of venom, venomous species and how that venom can be used to help people. LSTM’s Dr Nick Casewell has been interviewed about the research that the Unit carries out to develop new treatments for snakebite. The interview, along with footage of Dr Casewell and Paul Rowley carrying out a venom extraction from a snake form part of the exhibit, along with examples of venom, antivenom and first aid equipment that has been provided by LSTM.
The exhibition has already been received with enthusiasm by critics and the public alike and includes a series of talks on different related topics in the coming months. Dr Casewell is taking part in a meet the scientist event presenting a talk called Toxic Troubles as part of the Nature Live Lates series. His talk, which takes place on 24th November, will look at the complex make-up of snake venom toxins and what is being done to combat snakebite as a neglected tropical disease (NTD).
Dr Casewell is delighted to be taking part. He said: “This is a fantastic exhibition and a great way to showcase not just our research, but the diverse nature of the most venomous creatures on earth and the potential health benefits of the complex toxins that they possess. At LSTM we are at the forefront of venom research that is being undertaken to benefit some of the poorest people of the world – those who suffer the greatest burden of snakebite - and we always welcome the opportunity to inform the public about this issue and to inspire the next generation of venom researchers.”