In a remarkable breakthrough, Moroccan researchers at Hassan II University in Casablanca have patented and developed a groundbreaking prototype known as the Ves4 robot. This innovative robot is designed to safely extract venom from scorpions, offering a significant advancement in the field of medical research and drug development.

Scorpion venom, known for its lethal potency, is also one of the most valuable substances in the world, fetching up to $8,000 per gram. Despite its deadly nature, scorpion venom holds immense potential in the development of new drugs for combating diseases like malaria and cancer.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), malaria remains a significant global health concern, with millions of cases reported annually, resulting in hundreds of thousands of deaths. Similarly, cancer claims millions of lives each year, underscoring the urgent need for innovative medical solutions.

The development journey of the Ves4 robot commenced five years ago in 2017 at Hassan II University. The researchers embarked on a mission to devise a safer and more efficient method for extracting scorpion venom, replacing the hazardous and time-consuming manual extraction process.

Omar Tannan, a key member of the research team, elucidated on the functionality of the Ves4 robot.

"The Ves4 robot accommodates up to 35 scorpions. By applying a mild electric shock, the robot prompts the scorpions to release a single drop of venom, all done without any harm to the insects," explained Tannan.

After years of meticulous research and development, the team successfully patented the Ves4 robot prototype by the end of 2021, marking a significant milestone in their quest to revolutionize venom extraction techniques. With the patent secured, the researchers are now focusing on further optimizing the prototype for enhanced performance and efficiency.

The Ves4 robot represents a groundbreaking advancement in the field of medical research, offering a safer and more sustainable approach to scorpion venom extraction. As the researchers continue to refine their innovative creation, the Ves4 robot holds the promise of accelerating drug discovery and development, ultimately contributing to the advancement of global healthcare.