Synthetic antibodies, from snakebites to Covid-19
Run time: 12.00 – 13.00
Delve into the world of snake venoms and synthetic antibodies and discover their significance for global health.
Join Alex Baker (University of Warwick) for an interactive talk that will range from treating snakebites to testing for Covid-19.
Alex will discuss his research into antibodies – protective proteins that fight disease and toxins, including venoms – and how he’s combining chemistry and machine learning to design synthetic alternatives.
He’ll also explain how he helped develop lateral flow diagnostics with the NHS during the pandemic using this technology. Together, you’ll deconstruct and rebuild a lateral flow test to find out how they work and their flaws.
Finally, Alex will explore the pros and cons of animal-derived antibodies versus synthetic ones, inviting you to debate which approach we should choose for the future.
For access information and directions to this venue, and all British Science Festival venues, please click this link https://britishsciencefestival.org/british-science-festival-2025-venues
