Calliotoxin Explained

Calliotoxin is a venom produced only by the blue coral snake of Southeast Asia.[1] Calliotoxin is a short-chained neurotoxin that causes the victim's sodium channels to have delayed inactivation, causing them to remain open. This causes all of the neurons to fire at once and producing complete physical paralysis and a rapid death. There is no known antidote, though it is hoped that the venom may eventually become useful in creating painkillers for the management of chronic pain in humans.[2]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: This incredibly deadly snake's bizarre toxin could lead to a strong, non-narcotic painkiller. Ben. Guarino. www.washingtonpost.com.
  2. Web site: Blue coral snake venom is ridiculously potent and causes instant paralysis. Business Insider. Josh Hrala. 1 November 2016.