Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => Plant Sciences, Zoology & Evolution => Topic started by: @zain_yousuf on 26/09/2011 15:01:02

Title: Does snake venom contain pathogens or chemicals?
Post by: @zain_yousuf on 26/09/2011 15:01:02

@zain_yousuf asked the Naked Scientists:
   
Does snakes venom consist of "living" cells/pathogens or is it a mere mixture chemical compounds?

What do you think?

Title: Does snake venom contain pathogens or chemicals?
Post by: CliffordK on 26/09/2011 17:22:38

Snake "Venom" would be a chemical, and is often harvested from snakes for various purposes.

However, any animal bite, including snake bites often carry with them a host of pathogens (living organisms) that can have serious secondary effects.  These pathogens would generally be slower acting than the venom, but could pose just as serious of a risk to the victim.