Tim Friede has spent nearly two decades pursuing a singular goal: refining the way we treat snakebites. For 18 years, he voluntarily exposed himself to venom from some of the world’s deadliest snakes—accumulating over 850 injections and countless bites from species like cobras and taipans—in a bid to uncover a safer, more universal antivenom.
Jacob Glanville, CEO of Centivax, Inc., points out that Friede can tolerate venom doses that would normally be fatal to large animals. Researchers have since found that his blood contains antibodies capable of neutralising toxins from 19 different venomous species. When these human antibodies were paired with an existing antivenom drug, they protected mice from 13 lethal snake venoms.
Traditional antivenoms are often derived from animals and can trigger immune responses, posing significant risks. In contrast, Friede’s antibodies—being human in origin—offer broader protection with a reduced chance of adverse reactions, which is a promising development for anyone concerned about the limitations of current treatments.
This unconventional research wasn’t conducted as part of a formal study; it emerged from a personal commitment to addressing a critical need. In many parts of the world where snakebite incidents are common and specific antivenom is scarce, finding a one-size-fits-all solution could make a real difference.
Every year, snakebites affect more than two million people globally, with children and young adults among the most vulnerable. Growing up in Guatemala, Glanville witnessed firsthand the challenges posed by limited access to effective antivenoms—many of which only target a narrow band of venoms and may provoke harmful immune responses.
Friede’s journey started in high school, when he began collecting venomous snakes despite the obvious risks. Over two decades, he methodically exposed himself to venom from 16 snake species, enduring hundreds of bites along the way. His story eventually caught the eye of researchers eager to unlock the secrets of broad-spectrum antibodies.
In collaboration with Peter Kwong from Columbia University, the team developed a library of two billion antibody variants. From this extensive collection, two promising candidates emerged—each targeting different protein chains common to many snake venoms. Early laboratory tests combining these antibodies with a standard antivenom drug allowed mice to survive exposure to 13 types of venom and even provided a safety net against six more.
While these findings are preliminary and confined to animal testing, they offer a hopeful step toward creating a universal antivenom. Future plans include developing dedicated treatments for viper venom, as well as formulating a single or dual cocktail to manage different snake families. Trials are currently underway with Australian dogs, with conventional antivenoms ready as an immediate backup, while efforts continue to refine the treatment’s cost-effectiveness and portability.
Now retired from his dangerous routine, Tim Friede leaves behind a legacy that could eventually help save countless lives. Both he and Glanville stress that no one should attempt to replicate his perilous method now that these critical antibody molecules have been identified.
