Moroccan Scientists Develop Robot for Safe Scorpion Venom Extraction

A scientific feat. According to the researchers from Hassan II University in Casablanca who developed the robot as part of a doctoral thesis by researcher Mo’az Mokammel five years ago, the "VES4" device is an automated system that allows for the rapid and secure extraction of scorpion venom, reports Sci Dev Net. The device is intended for pharmaceutical laboratories and industries specialized in the development of active ingredients and the production of antidotes. This therefore makes it possible to develop new drugs to fight diseases such as malaria and cancer.

According to the explanations of Omar Tannan, a member of the research team, thirty-five scorpions can be placed simultaneously inside the robot, which is programmed to apply an electric charge forcing each of them to release a drop of white venom. He stressed that the small charge does not harm them. The venom drops are collected in a glass tube, the researcher said. "The antenna and the vibratory system actuating the robot facilitate the recovery of the venom beads collected in the pipes, ensuring a fully automated process," he added.

"The promotion of this innovation will allow the transfer of research results to the production sector, opening doors to funding opportunities," said Professor Anass Kettani, Vice-President of Hassan II University, in charge of integration, entrepreneurship and partnership and thesis director at the origin of the invention of the robotic system for the extraction of scorpion venom. "The invented robot can now be manufactured, but will require improvements and investments to move it from the laboratory to the market," he added.