Summary: Researchers from the University of California, San Francisco, found why the venom of a Texas Coral Snake is so painful. The insight of the finding is from chronic and acute pain. The venom contains two proteins that join together and stick on nerve endings. These nerve endings sense acid burns and send them up to the brain. Therefore, when the venom sticks to these nerves they cause unending pain. Human nerves react abnormally to acid, like lemon juice on a cut or anti-bacterial soap on a cut. Currently there is no natural cure for this but scientists are working on it.
Impact: People will now know to keep away from this black, yellow, and red colored serpent (looks similar to some king snakes, different patterns).
Critique: I’ll be sure to watch out while hiking and adventuring.
Reference: http://www.biologynews.net/archives/2011/11/17/snake_spills_venomous_secrets.html
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