IDEA Foundation develops in vitro diagnostic kit against scorpion venom in Miranda
Internet
Published at: 06/09/2026 06:32 PM
The Natural Toxins Laboratory, in Miranda state, is leading the development of a project focused on the creation of an in vitro diagnostic kit for the differentiation of species involved in scorpion poisoning in Venezuela.
The Institute for Advanced Studies Foundation (IDEA) project is led by researcher Aurora Álvarez and funded by the National Fund for Science, Technology and Innovation (FONACIT); it focuses its efforts primarily on the north-coastal and western areas of the country.
The initiative responds to the wide biodiversity of Venezuela, where scorpions are regionalized with notable variations between states such as Miranda, Zulia or Bolívar. Although these arachnids belong to similar genera, the composition of their venom varies significantly, causing different symptoms and requiring specific medical treatments for each case of poisoning.
To solve this problem, the team of researchers develops a device that works as a rapid test based on laminar flow immunochromatography methodology.
Researcher Aurora Álvarez explained that the procedure consists of placing a sample of the patient's serum in the holder so that, through the migration of the fluid, health personnel can identify in situ and precisely the species responsible for the bite.
Mazo News Team/VTV